Teamwork, Mentorship, and Medicine 

My ESAIC Exchange Programme Experience at St. Barts Heart Centre

Participating in the ESAIC Exchange Programme (EP) has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. As an honorary clinical fellow at the St. Barts Heart Centre, I had the opportunity to work in one of the most prestigious cardiac centres in the world. This experience not only enhanced my professional skills but also allowed me to meet incredible people and gain insights into the collaborative environment of a top-tier healthcare institution.

One of the unique aspects of the ESAIC Exchange Programme was the opportunity to choose from several renowned European centres. I chose St. Barts Heart Centre for two main reasons. First, St. Barts is recognised as one of the best cardiac centres in the world, known for its cutting-edge technology and pioneering treatments in cardiac care. The chance to work and learn in such an important institution was an opportunity I could not pass up. Secondly, I wanted to ensure effective communication with not only healthcare providers but also patients. Being proficient in English, I knew that St. Barts would provide an environment where I could easily interact with colleagues and patients, enhancing my learning experience and allowing me to participate fully in all aspects of patient care. These factors made St. Barts the ideal choice for my fellowship.

From the moment I arrived at St. Barts, I was warmly welcomed by the entire team. The atmosphere was professional and friendly, making integrating into the new environment seamless. I was immediately placed on their routine worklist, significantly facilitating my learning and integration into the team. This immediate inclusion allowed me to quickly understand the daily operations and become an active participant in patient care.

One of the most remarkable aspects of my experience was the opportunity to work with a diverse group of healthcare professionals. Collaboration between anaesthesiologists, surgeons, nurses, Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs), and other staff members is seamless at St. Barts. I deeply appreciated and learned a lot from this multidisciplinary approach to patient care. Each team member played a vital role in ensuring the best patient outcomes, and the level of mutual respect and cooperation was genuinely inspiring, significantly contributing to my personal and professional growth.

Working alongside experienced anaesthesiologists at St. Barts allowed me to observe and participate in various complex cardiac procedures. I was particularly impressed by the precision and expertise displayed by the senior anaesthesiologists during surgeries. Their ability to manage high-risk cases with calm and confidence was something I aspired to emulate. They were always willing to share their knowledge, explain their decision-making processes, and provide valuable feedback on my performance. This mentorship was instrumental in my professional growth.

Another highlight of my experience at St. Barts was the strong sense of teamwork and mutual support among the staff. The nurses, ODPs, and other support staff were skilled professionals who were incredibly supportive and approachable. They made me feel like a valued team member from day one. Whether a quick chat in the break room or assistance during a procedure, their kindness and willingness to help made a significant difference in my daily routine. I realised that a positive and collaborative work environment is essential for personal well-being and professional success.

In addition to the clinical work, I also had the opportunity to attend various educational sessions. St. Barts Heart Centre regularly hosts lectures, journal clubs, and training sessions open to all anaesthesiologists. These sessions covered a wide range of topics, from the latest research in cardiac anaesthesia to practical tips for managing complex cases. Attending these sessions enriched my understanding of current trends and advancements in anaesthesia and reinforced the importance of continuous learning in our field.

In conclusion, my experience at St. Barts Heart Centre as part of the Exchange Programme was indeed a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I gained invaluable clinical experience, developed new skills, and formed lasting professional relationships. The knowledge and insights I acquired during my fellowship have profoundly influenced my approach to anaesthesia and patient care. I am grateful to the ESAIC for this opportunity and to the beautiful team at St. Barts for their support and mentorship.

Finally, I would like to thank Dr. Carlos Corredor, who was responsible for overseeing the exchange trainees at St. Barts. His guidance and support were crucial in making this experience as enriching and enjoyable as possible. This experience has undoubtedly shaped me into a better anaesthesiologist and will continue to inspire me throughout my career.

Author

• Melis Sumak Hazir, MD, DESAIC