Down at the Doctors December 2024

Posted on January 29th, 2024

I am delighted to announce that the Health Centre has been awarded….

The HWE Primary Care General Practice of the Year 2024.

As the African proverb says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This achievement truly reflects our team effort. A huge thank you to our dedicated staff, doctors, and, of course, you—our wonderful patients.

Enough back-slapping! Now, let’s hand over to Bonny Hall, our Nurse Practitioner, for some wise words.

I’m Bonny, lead nurse/ANP at Much Hadham Health Centre. I joined in 2021 and quickly saw that teamwork is essential to our success.

My calling to nursing came in the early 80s, but not without a detour. After a brief, ill-fated career as a legal secretary—where I earned the dubious title “Tippex queen” for my overzealous use of correction fluid on posh, pale blue letterhead—I was politely nudged out of the legal profession.

I started nursing training in Enfield and qualified as an RN in 1984, working on a surgical and gynaecology ward. After a few years and starting my family, I moved into general practice in 1996 at an innovative clinic with a minor operating theatre.

Fast forward, and I’ve been in general practice for 28 years now. And yes, I’m still learning every day, which I think is one of the best parts of this profession. I’m passionate about education and training. I work one day a week as a Nurse Education Lead, and our team at Much Hadham supports student nurse placements, helping them gain insight into primary care. My role involves diagnosing, managing, and treating long-term conditions and minor illnesses, which helps improve patient access and allows GPs to focus on more complex needs.

Practice nursing is incredibly rewarding, offering the chance to build relationships with patients and families, work autonomously, and be part of a multidisciplinary team.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and grandchildren. I’m a nonfiction bookworm, dabbling interior designer, enthusiastic gardener, and proud owner of a lively labradoodle named Lucy. A walk with Lucy is my favourite way to unwind, rain or shine. Thank you, Bonny, for an insight into your world.

As this is the last edition before Christmas, I would like to wish you all a wonderful holiday season and a very Happy New Year!

Andrew