Guy Blackburn Biology

Current job title

Senior Specialist Information Analyst.

When did you start in the NHS?

2003.

Why did you choose to work in the NHS?

It was an opportunity to contribute directly to the health and well-being of the country.

Describe what you do?

I am responsible for data and informatics architecture across a number of software developments in my organisation and advise on best practices, etc, to a wide range of digital projects. When developing directly, I mostly work on non-clinical data throughout its full lifecycle, from raw data to final reporting to consumers like Scottish Government, NHS service managers, etc. During the pandemic response, I was responsible for the information and reporting developments to support the Scottish vaccinations recording app and the Care Home outbreak/testing app.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

The ability to contribute to the wellbeing of the country and feel that my work has real value. While I don't have the aptitude to be a clinician, I know that timely and accurate information provided to policy makers and service managers helps to ensure that the NHS can deliver quality care and value for money with precious public funds. I find that contributing pieces of the puzzle that ultimately lead to improvements in care for thousands of people very rewarding.

What would you say to someone thinking about a career in the NHS?

It is immensely rewarding and while the financial rewards may not be as great as the private sector, if you love what you do it is a tremendous environment to be able to truly make a difference.

How would you describe the NHS in one word?

Rewarding.