Healthcare communications and technology expert, Ascom, has expanded its team of clinical consultants with the appointment of Fiona Kirk and Hayley Valentine.
Kirk (pictured right) brings more than 20 years of healthcare experience to her new role as clinical sales consultant.
Her career began in the NHS as a registered nurse and midwife, before joining transfusion diagnostics specialist, Quotient, and medical device brands Medela UK and Molnlycke Health Care.
Commenting on her appointment, which will see her support healthcare providers across Scotland, she said: “As a former nurse in the NHS I know that time is precious and there is never enough of it.
“I joined Ascom because I passionately believe that the technology it has, and continues to create, can make clinicians’ lives easier and free up more of their time so it can be dedicated to patient care.”
Valentine (below) joins as a national clinical consultant having worked in the NHS for over 18 years as a nurse within critical care and spinal trauma.
In all other areas of our lives technology has improved how we access services and communicate, but it can perhaps make the most life-changing, positive impact within healthcare
She said: “Even before the pandemic those providing care across the whole of the NHS, not just on its frontline, were under a tremendous amount of pressure, but COVID-19 has magnified that considerably.
“As a critical care nurse at the start of the pandemic I felt that we were working harder, but not necessarily smarter.
“In all other areas of our lives technology has improved how we access services and communicate, but it can perhaps make the most life-changing, positive impact within healthcare.”
The double appointment to the Ascom clinical consulting team, which is made up of more than 20 experienced healthcare professionals from a wide range of backgrounds, follows that of Sophie Evans, a former critical care nurse who joined last year as a clinical sales consultant.
Paul Lawrence, managing director, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Fiona and Hayley to the team.
“Their clinical experience and personal understanding of the unique pressures and challenges our healthcare customers face are invaluable as we continue to create technology that meets the constantly evolving needs of both clinicians and patients.”
