The “hidden profession” to hold live #WhatsODP Twitter chat
Mon, 28 Apr 2014 12:55:00 BST
#WhatsODP
The School of Human and Health Sciences @UoHHealthSosSci will hold a live twitter chat on 22 May 2014, 10am-2pm to create awareness about the Operating Department Practice profession, #WhatsODP
Contrary to popular belief, the experts who provide assistance to surgeons before, during and after operations are not invariably nurses, but specially trained Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs). By supporting operating theatre staff and providing care to patients, ODPs ensure every operation is as safe and effective as possible.
Moira Tyas, ODP admissions tutor and practitioner says, “It is a bit of a hidden profession. As a patient in theatre you think all the people are nurses or medics.”
To raise awareness for ODP, the School will hold a live Twitter chat on 22 May to answer any queries from those interested in a healthcare career or who are just intrigued by the profession. The school will also share snippets of information throughout the four hour slot, such as facts, quotes, images and videos related to ODP.
Steve Brown, ODP course leader commented on the initiative by saying, “Many people don’t know about Operating Department Practice. There is currently a shortage of ODPs nationally and employment rates are very high. It’s a very rewarding and exciting role within the operating department team and hopefully this awareness day will encourage people who are interested in a healthcare profession to think about ODP as a career”.
Pictured left: Steven Brown, ODP Course Leader and Moira Tyas, ODP Admissions Tutor and Practitioner
In 2013, the University of Huddersfield was one of the first universities in the country and the first in Yorkshire to offer Operating Department Practice BSc(Hons), a fully validated degree.
According to the University's Destination of Leavers Survey, 100% of Operating Department Practice graduates found graduate level employment or went on to further study within six months of graduating in 2011/12. What’s more, financial backing from the region’s Strategic Health Authority means that successful applicants to the course will pay no fees and bursaries to cover living costs will also be available to eligible students.
If you want to learn more about this highly rewarding career, join the Twitter chat on 22 May 2014 between 10am-2pm on @UoHHealthSocSci #WhatsODP.
