About Dr Laura Rylah
Dr Laura Rylah is a Specialty Doctor in obstetrics and gynaecology at Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, where she co-leads undergraduate medical education. She is also the RCOG SAS and LED Representative for Wessex.
Choosing an SAS role
I moved across from a training post to this specialty doctor role five years ago. I had many personal and professional reasons for pursuing an SAS career. I value the stability, collegiality and new opportunities I am exposed to.
Leading medical education
In particular I am delighted to be the Co-Lead for the Medical Students in my unit. I support the medical school and students by regularly giving lecture based, small group and bedside teaching and co-ordinating and optimising the students’ time with us by writing individualised timetables.
I also provide pastoral support and assign the students a mentor during their placements. Since receiving additional training from the University, I am able to perform their end of placement assessments and provide feedback. I also support our international students and liaise with their home medical school to ensure their time with us is really beneficial.
Development and recognition
Alongside my clinical work, this role has afforded me the opportunity to complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education via the University of Winchester which has allowed me to reflect on and improve my teaching style.
Visibility and impact
I enjoy sharing my enthusiasm for the specialty and working alongside others in the Trust in educational roles. Being a permanent member of staff and having time in my job plan dedicated to this role has enabled my involvement. My contribution to medical education has been welcomed as an SAS doctor. This improves the visibility of SAS doctors in the Trust and illustrates the value experienced doctors can bring to their departments.