Dr Marden shares his NHS memories

Dr Bernie Marden talks about his NHS career.

 

When did you start?

I entered medical school in 1986 and qualified as a neonatal paediatrician in August 1992. I worked in several hospitals in Wessex before undertaking a Neonatal Fellowship in Vancover.

 

Why did you choose to work in the NHS?

My mother was a nurse and I was inspired by her stories around the dinner table.

 

What do you do?

I am now the Chief Medical Officer for NHS Somerset, but I am a neonatal paediatrician by background.

Before joining Somerset I was the Medical Director at RUH Bath NHS Foundation focussing on women and children.

While my early career taught me a huge amount, it was one patient at a time focussing on those people directly in my care. Now I get a chance to influence the health opportunities and outcomes for a whole population. My satisfaction and enjoyment come from working with colleagues to enable them to be the best they can be and to get conditions right for their success.

 

What would you tell someone now who was thinking about a career in the NHS?

Go for it! The NHS is a huge complex organisation, which can be daunting, but it offers huge opportunities to develop professionally. There are so many roles. It really is one big team!

 

What one word would you use to describe the NHS?

Irreplaceable.