We caught up with Lydia Salice, divisional manager for digital clinical services.
Lydia’s role involves supporting work to be more digital, whether that is through increasing digital pathways like our Single Point of Access service, or by implementing our new Electronic Patient Record (EPR).
I think the main tip I have is to find the balance that works for you, the same thing won't work for everyone.
Has there been one example or situation which has made you feel an additional sense of pride working at Moorfields and why?
I’ve only been at Moorfields for six weeks and I’ve really had such a warm welcome. Everyone has gone out of their way to spend time with me and show me their work and departments. It’s made me feel really proud to work somewhere so friendly.
When you’re not working what do you like to do?
I’ve got two kids, Rafael is three and Nicolas is one, so they definitely keep me busy outside of work! I also love to travel.
It would be hard to pick the best place I’ve ever been to but it would probably be Vietnam, Mexico or Sri Lanka.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given and how has this helped you?
I was once told that my job isn’t to worry too much about patients, instead I should focus on staff, and trust that if staff are happy and well supported then patients will be well cared for by them. This really stuck with me.
Our purpose is – working together to discover, develop and deliver excellent eye care, sustainably and at scale. Can you give any examples of how you do this?
I know that EPR and more digital pathways will be a big change for Moorfields and that can be quite daunting, especially for areas that are very reliant on paper. I’ve been really impressed how so many people have come together to support the EPR programme – staff are really focused on working together to deliver excellent eye care. This programme will bring us many benefits.
How do you personally try and create a better work/life balance? Do you have any top tips to share with staff?
I work flexibly and I’m lucky to have a supportive line manager and team so some days I can start late and drop off my kids, and other days I do pick up. Trying to fit my work around pick up and drop offs mean I do sometimes work in the evenings but that works for me to spend time with the kids as well.
I think the main tip I have is to find the balance that works for you, the same thing won't work for everyone.
How do you champion equity, diversity and inclusion in your current role? What difference have you made?
I’ve only recently started at Moorfields but in my last job I led an EDI review into our recruitment processes. This led to changes to where and how we advertised, fairer internal opportunities - more standardised and open, and changes to how we do “pre calls” to reduce bias in shortlisting.
What would your colleagues be surprised to discover about you?
When I was a teenager I was really into figure skating. I used to spend a lot of time in ice rinks and my first job was an ice marshall at Somerset House ice rink!