Those involved in the biomedical science field sit within the organisation’s pathology department, where they are responsible for the forensic analysis of patient samples. This includes everything from performing blood tests, to studying organ tissue and examining fluids for signs of infection. As such, it is a remarkably diverse profession, with specialist experts working across a number of different areas.
Using sophisticated techniques and cutting-edge equipment, they look for residues of viruses, fungi and infections that would otherwise be invisible to the naked eye, making them a vital resource for the treatment and prevention of illnesses. Of course, the importance of this function has never been greater than it is right now, as the team are balancing their normal service with a high demand for Covid-19 tests.
On that note, since late March they have undertaken upwards of 10,000 coronavirus swabs for the Trust, enabling swift and accurate diagnosis so that people be sure of whether or not they need to self-isolate. More recently, the lab coat heroes have also begun antibody testing for Covid-19, whereby they review a blood sample to see if someone has already had the virus and subsequently developed an immune response.
To acknowledge just how well they have been coping under this immense pressure, DBTH have committed wholeheartedly to national Biomedical Science Day, celebrating the 200 plus colleagues who make up the invaluable team.
Speaking about this, David Purdue, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals at the Trust, said: ‘Our knowledgeable Biomedical scientists do an amazing job each and every day and we are always grateful for their incredible contributions. However, this year’s Biomedical Science Day has coincided with a period of an intense challenge for the team and they have more than risen to the occasion.
‘’In the last few weeks, they have completed a staggering 17,000 antibody tests, alongside a tremendous number of Covid-19 swabs, not to mention their usual duties as well. They are an absolute credit to the organisation, and it’s been extremely gratifying to see the outpouring of praise they have been receiving today from colleagues. On behalf of the Executive Team I would like to thank every single member of the team from the bottom of heart’’.
Biomedical Science Day took place on 11 June 2020 and is an annual event organised by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).