As a Biomedical Science student on my first-ever placement in the Clinical Immunology department at Leeds General Infirmary, I've been able to witness first-hand how essential diagnostic science is to modern healthcare. This experience marks my first practical exposure to a clinical laboratory setting, where I work closely with laboratory professionals who run tests critical to diagnosing and managing conditions such as autoimmune disorders, allergies, and immunodeficiencies.

In this role, I process patient samples, ensuring accurate and timely results, which are crucial for clinicians to make informed decisions on treatment plans. After I process the samples, the results are reviewed by registered IBMS professionals to ensure accuracy and reliability, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care. Each test, whether it's monitoring disease progression or identifying specific immune deficiencies, contributes directly to improving patient outcomes. This experience has opened my eyes to the often-unseen work that laboratory scientists do behind the scenes, safeguarding the quality of results and ultimately, the wellbeing of patients.

National Pathology Week is a great opportunity to reflect on how pathology impacts every level of healthcare. By promoting awareness of this field, I hope to highlight the dedication of laboratory staff and their vital role in the patient care pathway.

This placement has allowed me to gain invaluable practical experience while also developing skills that will benefit me as a future biomedical scientist. It has shown me the importance of accuracy, collaboration, and critical thinking - all of which are essential to delivering quality healthcare.