Carrie MacEwen message to the profession - December 2024

Winter is upon us and, with it, an increase in the volume and intensity of doctors’ workloads. In a system that is already extremely stretched, the pressures at this time of year feel even more demanding.

As you continue to provide the best possible care for your patients, please also remember to care for each other, and yourselves. Compassion is a powerful antidote to stress; and empathy and understanding can ease the burden doctors carry.

Throughout the year, my colleagues and I have met thousands of people from across the health systems of the UK. And I’ve been struck by the sense of common purpose that exists in every corner of the four countries. Though diverse in background, seniority and specialty, ours is a profession that is united by a shared desire to do our best for those we care for. 

Medicine is not an easy vocation, but it is an immensely valuable and rewarding one. It is a privilege to be at the centre of people’s lives when they need us most, seeing the impact of our skills and experience on our patients and being trusted in a way that few other professions are. The responsibilities are profound, but there is no greater satisfaction than knowing that you have made a difference though your judgement, expertise and care.

In the toughest moments, never forget that what you do matters. It matters to patients, it matters to their loved ones and it matters to the society of which we are all part. When the world around us feels fraught and charged, this is the constant we can return to.

Thank you for everything you do.

With my warmest wishes for the festive period and all the best for the year ahead,

Carrie