Meet Dr Victoria McCormack, Honorary Secretary Elect
Dr Victoria McCormack is a consultant in critical care and anaesthesia at Manchester Foundation Trust. She is the Honorary Secretary Elect of the Association of Anaesthetists. Her clinical interests are critical care follow up, airway safety and staff wellbeing.
Why did you stand for election to board?
Having been on the trainee committee, I was aware of the opportunity to effect change nationally and the amazing colleagues at the Association. Being part of national guidelines, advocating for the profession, initiatives like Coffee and a Gas - I missed it all! I wanted to represent newer consultants and those often feeling ‘squeezed’ by work and life pressures. I also knew and enjoyed the culture at the Association of Anaesthetists. Everyone is collegial and hardworking but also very understanding and grateful for our volunteer efforts.
Why did you decide to become an anaesthetist / doctor?
I was always impressed but how calm and collected anaesthetists and intensivists were when they came to my rescue on the ward as a new doctor. They seemed to like their job and had a non-judgemental attitude. I loved that anaesthesia and ICM get involved in almost any part of the hospital and in so many patient journeys. I also saw more people in those professions with balanced lives who seemed happy and that is very attractive!
We support and manipulate physiology all day long and whether in theatre, resus or ICU, it’s a privilege to see everything you spend years studying make a difference to someone’s life.
What do you like the most about your job?
I love the acute stuff. It's challenging but the intensive care is my type of stress! We support and manipulate physiology all day long and whether in theatre, resus or ICU, it’s a privilege to see everything you spend years studying make a difference to someone’s life.
Who or what inspires you to do your best work?
I’m happiest in a team. My colleagues are skilled, dedicated and so supportive. The camaraderie is second to none, especially important in the last few years. And the wins. Seeing someone come back to ICU after a long and traumatic stay - just living their life. When a patient enjoys a trip off the unit or regains a lost skill. Safely getting someone through their cancer operation, having them wake up comfortable and surprised its over!
What do you like to do in your free time?
I have a batch of mammals at home. Two homemade and teen/tweenage and keeping me busy! I like lifting weights and baking. Clearly a symbiotic relationship.
Social media handles:
@vlm1victoria