UHNM appoints new Deputy Director of Medical Education

University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) is pleased to announce it has appointed Dr Hannah McKee, specialty doctor in emergency medicine, as its new deputy associate medical director for post graduate medical education.

Hannah becomes the first specialty doctor (SAS) at UHNM to be appointed to a leadership role of this kind.

Hannah has been developing as an educator for more than a decade, and since joining UHNM 10 years ago has played a pivotal role in supporting the education and training of doctors across the Trust. 

She began her journey with foundation doctor supervision and teaching on life support courses before being appointed as SAS Tutor in early 2020, shortly before the Covid-19 pandemic.

Hannah said: “The Covid-19 pandemic meant my initial plans were a little delayed, but during the five years I was SAS Tutor I ensured that the SAS doctors were given many opportunities to develop in their chosen fields and more importantly that their work was recognised and valued by the organisation. I am a huge advocate for the development and education of all doctors, whether it’s in formal training, a locally appointed position, or SAS doctors and will always support this where I am able to.”

In 2023 Hannah was invited to take on the role of foundation programme director, a position she has “absolutely loved.”
She said: “With such a big foundation cohort here at UHNM, it’s been incredibly rewarding to listen to them, hear their concerns and begin making positive changes. Change is challenging and takes longer than people would like but I think I’ve shown I can deliver long-term improvements.”

Encouraged by colleagues and senior leaders, Hannah applied for the deputy associate medical director role earlier this year.

She said: “As an SAS doctor I was a little nervous about applying, but the chief medical officer (CMO)and other deputy CMOs were hugely supportive. I’ve always been passionate about delivering high-quality education, while recognising the challenges of serving such a large patient population. I want to help develop the next generation of senior leaders and senior doctors, those who will be caring for me one day, and ensure they’ve had the very best education here.

“Education is sometimes downplayed when services are busy, but without it we cannot innovate or develop the next generation of consultants, matrons, nurses and leaders. We have to balance service delivery with training and deliver education in a way that doctors actually want to learn. That’s how we’ll continue to improve.”

“I’m proud that as a SAS doctor, I’ve been trusted with this role. We’re not always the first group people think of for these positions, but it’s been recognised that I bring the skills and experience needed to make a difference. I want all resident doctors to know they have someone approachable, who will listen and act on their concerns. I’ve always got open ears and an open email inbox.

“We’ve got a huge job ahead, but I’m excited to get stuck in. The work I’ve done with the foundation programme is something I want to replicate more widely – ensuring every resident doctor feels supported and empowered during their time here.”