Dr Jane Atkinson
Consultant in Acute Medicine Northumbria Emergency Care Specialist Hospital
Nominated by: Dr Catherine Labinjoh, Consultant Cardiologist, Forth Valley Royal Hospital
How does the nominee inspire you?
Jane was at the London 2012 Paralympic Games and proudly carried the Paralympic torch. She's a doctor who "just happens to be disabled" and wrote frankly on this topic in BMJ Careers in 2004. With multiple congenital abnormalities, particularly affecting her lower limbs, she underwent bilateral lower limb amputation in early childhood. For many people, such disabilities might have made a career in acute medicine seem too difficult. Jane has embraced her challenges as she embraces all challenges with determination and enthusiasm.
Contribution to medical practice and impact on care
During training she was Trainee Representative within the region and also for the Society of Acute Medicine. Jane has a particular interest in ambulatory care, nurse practitioner training and junior doctor education. Jane is an active member of the Recently Appointed Consultants' Committee which provides resources and educational events primarily directed at Consultants within 10 years of appointment but which generates a programme of activity with wide appeal.