In our latest #OurEntrepreneurs profile we meet cohort 7 Clinical Entrepreneur Victoria Welsh, Physiotherapist.
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am a physiotherapist with over 25 years’ experience in the NHS. I currently split my time across 2 roles which are Head of Physiotherapy for Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Trust and Business Development Manager for Somerset NHS Foundation Trust.
Name: Victoria Welsh, Physiotherapist, Cohort 7.
Occupation: Physiotherapist.
NHS Trust: Somerset NHS Foundation Trust & Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Trust.
Why did you apply to the programme and what are you looking forward to?
I saw the programme mentioned in an article about innovation and I discussed it with my manager at SFT who encouraged me to apply.
I anticipate the programme will help me in several ways. The planned programme provides training in all the key areas of innovation development and will provide me with the know-how. The mentoring will give me the opportunity to push and develop myself to achieve my aims and the networking will provide the inspiration to keep striving on this journey.
Tell us about your innovation
I work in the commercial team, and we are in the process of developing a pathway to support colleagues to innovate. We plan to proactively seek out innovators and provide them with the support to develop and commercialise their ideas. Ensuring the team is knowledgeable and equipped to guide the process is essential.
We have an existing portfolio of innovations that we are supporting but we anticipate this is just the tip of the iceberg. We hope that by creating the right environment for supporting innovation we will encourage colleagues to come forward and explore their ideas.
What motivates you?
I am motivated by learning, new experiences, supporting others and making a difference.
What are your ambitions for the next year?
I aim to develop an innovation pathway and create a buzz about innovation within my organisation.
Why do you think innovation is important in healthcare?
Healthcare needs to keep changing and evolving, embracing new technologies and keeping pace with the times. People are living longer and with more complex healthcare needs which puts a strain on our resources. Healthcare professionals understand the problem from the inside and should be part of developing the solutions.
How can we find out more?
Please visit my social media channels for more information
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TRANSFORMING HEALTHCARE THROUGH INNOVATION
