In this episode of the Tiny Medical Apps / Digital Health Passport podcast, cohosts Dom Burch and Saira Arif interview Laura King, a senior children and young people's asthma practitioner for North East London. Laura shares her journey from starting in orthopaedics to becoming an asthma specialist, highlighting her initial experiences in A&E and her passion for managing long-term conditions like asthma.
Key Themes: Career Journey and Passion for Asthma Care:
- Laura King discusses her transition from orthopaedics to asthma care, emphasising her interest in managing long-term conditions seen in A&E. She shares how her early experiences shaped her dedication to helping children and families manage asthma effectively.
Challenges and Strategies in Asthma Management:
- Laura addresses the difficulties families face, particularly in deprived areas, in managing asthma. She highlights the importance of education and empowerment, ensuring families have the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health.
Engagement and Education Techniques:
- Laura elaborates on her use of visual aids and storybooks to simplify complex asthma information for children and families. She believes in making information accessible and memorable through creative methods.
Digital Tools and Innovations:
- The podcast explores the benefits of digital tools like the Digital Health Passport, which consolidates health information in one place. Laura praises the app's ability to help families manage asthma symptoms and access essential information conveniently.
Personal Stories and Inspiration:
- Laura shares personal stories, including the loss of a close friend, which inspired her to write children's books. She also discusses how becoming a mother has driven her to push for improvements in asthma care.
Future Direction and Advice:
- Laura encourages healthcare professionals to show their passion and humanity in their work. She advises not to be afraid of being emotional and personal, as it can greatly enhance patient care.