In The Spotlight - Dr Jomol Joseph
People are at the centre of everything we do. Those who work at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board make a difference to people’s lives every single day.
Each month, the ‘In The Spotlight’ campaign will shine a light on the different people who make up Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, from those who support behind the scenes, to those who have passions that led them to work in their role.
As an organisation with over 17,000 colleagues, the campaign will highlight the variety of roles, teams and individuals across the health board. Working in the NHS can be life-changing, both for colleagues and for the patients they help.
In the Spotlight for October is Dr Jomol Joseph. Jomol is a Clinical Fellow in Medicine at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.
In 2022 Dr Jomol Joseph moved to the UK from Kerala for her husband’s job. Jomol had worked and trained as a doctor in India, but to register and practice in Britain she had to pass a series of exams. While waiting to sit these assessments, Jomol initially found it hard to find work, until she was offered a Health Care Support Worker role with Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.
This August, almost two years and two roles later, Dr Jomol Joseph began work as a Clinical Fellow in Medicine at the University Hospital of Wales.
Jomol said: “Finally, I am here with my doctor job, and I am grateful to the health board throughout my journey from band 2, to band 4, to doctor. My experiences in different roles within the NHS have reinforced my commitment to this profession.
“Without GMC registration, I couldn’t work as a doctor here, and my PLAB 1 exam was booked for May 2023, leaving me six months ahead of my exam. I started looking for a job, but unfortunately, for a band 2 Healthcare Support Worker position I only faced rejections.
“Then, one fine day, I secured a job as a Healthcare Support Worker for Cardiff and Vale University Health Board. It was very hard for me to do this job initially, but I managed to adapt, and it turned out to be an excellent opportunity for me to understand the NHS system.”
After passing her PLAB 1 exam, Jomol was supported by the Nurse Resourcing team to secure a job as an Assistant Practitioner (band 4) in Acute Medicine at UHW.
Jomol said: “I enjoyed my new job because I encountered a variety of cases during my shifts and improved my skills in triaging, venepuncture, cannulation, and catheterisation. My job in the assessment unit played a significant role in helping me pass my PLAB 2 exam in December 2023.
“Everyone on A1 ward was very supportive, and my manager supported me during my exam days. I passed my exam and secured my GMC Registration in February 2024. When I applied for doctor jobs, it was beneficial to already be part of the NHS, especially in the same health board."
Jomol’s favourite thing about her job is the ability to make a tangible difference in patients’ lives.
“The daily challenges and the dynamic environment keep me motivated and passionate about my work. Working with a diverse team of healthcare professionals has enriched my experience and broadened my perspective on patient care.
“My inspiration to pursue a role in healthcare stems from a deep-rooted desire to help others and make a positive impact on their lives. The satisfaction of seeing patients recover and knowing that I played a part in their healing process drives me to excel in my field.”
Throughout her career, Jomol has been able to find relaxation through her passion for cooking and makeup.
“I love experimenting with different cuisines and trying out new recipes in my free time and I also have a keen interest in makeup and styling. These hobbies provide me with a creative outlet and help me maintain a balanced life outside of my demanding medical career.”
Hear more about how we are putting people first in the Shaping Our Future Wellbeing strategy by visiting the webpage here: Home - Shaping our Future Wellbeing.
To view current vacancies with Cardiff and Vale University Health Board visit the Jobs page of our website here: Jobs - Cardiff and Vale University Health Board (nhs.wales)
Read about other roles and colleagues who have been 'In the Spotlight' here.