As a degree apprentice studying our MSc Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) course, Beth McGeorge gains invaluable clinical knowledge while working as a Trainee ACP at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals.
Beth's studies have equipped her with the skills to tackle real-world healthcare challenges, a reality she faced first-hand during a volunteer placement she recently arranged at a hospital in Moshi, Tanzania.
The Moshi hospital faces significant challenges, with many patients unable to pay their medical bills. This leads to extended stays that further impact their financial burdens and complicate the hospital’s operations.
Beth said, “It was heart-breaking to see individuals who, despite receiving necessary care, found themselves trapped in a cycle of escalating costs and prolonged recovery.”
Beth found that her academic knowledge played a crucial role in navigating these challenges. She said, “My knowledge of health inequities, cultural competence, and the importance of community-centred care has developed since the start of my course. I've learned to recognise how socioeconomic factors, access to resources, and cultural differences impact health outcomes.”
"My university studies also provided a strong foundation for understanding the theory behind quality improvement and how to apply it in real-world settings."
"The emphasis on evidence-based practice and healthcare systems has been especially helpful, as it’s given me the tools to assess and improve patient care in a structured and systematic way.”
By combining theory with hands-on experience, Beth has been able to make a meaningful impact.
Beth said, “Volunteering has provided me with invaluable hands-on experience that directly complements my studies. The real-world challenges I’ve encountered have allowed me to apply theoretical concepts in a practical setting, which has deepened my understanding of complex healthcare issues.”
The scarcity of medical supplies and equipment added to the difficulties faced while volunteering. Medications were often reused for multiple patients, and essential supplies like syringes and bandages were limited.
In addition, many patients could not afford necessary procedures such as X-rays or MRI scans, meaning many cases had to be assessed clinically. Beth believes the skills she developed in these resource-limited environments have made her more adaptable and better prepared for a career in healthcare.
Beth said, "Volunteering has given me experience working in real-world healthcare settings, which has been invaluable in building practical skills that employers highly value."
"It has not only allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of patient care and quality improvement but also enhanced my ability to work in diverse, resource-limited environments."
Beth’s degree apprenticeship has played a pivotal role in helping her balance academic learning with real-world application. Through her role as a Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioner, she is continuously able to integrate new knowledge into her daily practice, enhancing both her confidence and capability as a healthcare professional.
The combination of structured study and on-the-job experience has allowed her to develop advanced clinical skills while maintaining a direct impact on patient care. Her experience highlights the value of combining academic study with practical training, ensuring she is well-prepared for the challenges of modern healthcare.
