Meet the NHS clinician delivering hospital-level care in patients' homes
As the NHS marks its 78th anniversary, Violet Chikomba's work reflects the contribution of the Black nurses, doctors and healthcare staff who remain the backbone of Britain's health service
When a 94-year-old woman in Kent became seriously unwell, her family expected an ambulance journey and a long wait in A&E.
Instead, the patient received hospital-level treatment in her own living room.
Advanced Clinical Practitioner Violet Chikomba was among the clinicians who responded after the woman was referred to Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust’s Hospital at Home Frailty Team.
Assessing her for acute kidney injury, dehydration and a chest infection, Chikomba began treatment with intravenous fluids and antibiotics at home. By the following day, the patient was already recovering.
“The family were really impressed,” Violet said.
“If she had gone to hospital, she might have had to wait several hours to be seen and could have deteriorated further. We were able to respond quickly and provide the care she needed in the right place.”
Her story has been highlighted by NHS England as part of its 78th anniversary celebrations, recognising staff helping to deliver care in new ways while easing pressure on hospitals.
For Violet, treating patients at home is about far more than convenience.
“It is so much better for people to be treated at home,” she said.
“Going to hospital can be stressful and cause anxiety, whereas at home people are more comfortable and recover quicker.
“We can also talk with patients and families about ongoing care and, where appropriate, discuss end of life plans and what patients would and would not want.”
She added: “Helping people stay in their own homes gives me real satisfaction. I am very proud of the work I do.”
The anniversary also shines a light on the indispensable contribution of Black NHS staff.
According to the latest NHS workforce data, around 97,106 Black employees work across the health service, accounting for approximately 7.4 per cent of its workforce.
Staff from all Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds collectively make up around 28.6 per cent of NHS employees.
For decades, Black nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, porters, cleaners, administrators and allied health professionals have helped sustain the NHS, from the Windrush generation who answered Britain’s post-war call for workers to today’s diverse workforce serving communities across the country.
As the health service enters its 79th year, stories such as Violet’s underscore the skill, compassion and commitment that continue to define the NHS - and the vital role Black healthcare professionals play in keeping it running every day.
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