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- Talk
- 22/09/2021
- UK
COVID-19; Lessons and Challenges (Presidential Guest Lecture)
Description
The event is a professional lecture delivered by Bob Handley, the president of the British Orthopaedic Association (BOA), featuring the National Medical Director, Stephen Powis, as the presidential guest lecturer. Bob opens the session with a warm greeting and reflects on the honor and privilege of inviting Powis, emphasizing the vital role of orthopedics and trauma in the NHS amidst current challenges. Handley expresses delight at Powis's acceptance of the invitation, acknowledging his extensive experience and insight into the NHS.
Powis, after being welcomed with applause, shares his gratitude for the opportunity to speak in person at the BOA Congress after a long period of remote engagements. He recalls his personal connection to Scotland, highlighting the country’s natural beauty experienced on his journey to Aberdeen.
In his lecture, Powis outlines the significant challenges faced by the NHS during the pandemic, recognizing the dedication and resilience of healthcare professionals. He discusses the pressures resulting from COVID-19, the adaptations made, and the urgent need to balance routine and emergency care alongside effective responses to the pandemic. Powis emphasizes the importance of teamwork among NHS staff in delivering care while managing the impact of COVID-19, particularly in surgical specialties like orthopedics.
Throughout the lecture, he reflects on lessons learned, innovative responses to the pandemic, and the crucial role of science in public health decisions. Powis notes the impressive pace of vaccine rollouts and the efforts to manage the ongoing pressure on healthcare services. He acknowledges the mental and physical toll on NHS staff and emphasizes the need for support and recognition of their hard work.
As the lecture concludes, Powis reiterates the need for collaboration to tackle the recovery ahead, addressing the elective backlog that has become a pressing concern for clinicians. Handley concludes the event by presenting Powis with a chocolate presidential medal, expressing appreciation for his insights and contributions.