PiF Profile

Claire Blood

I currently work at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough. We are a large Foundation Trust and as an organisation we employ almost 9,000 staff. We are currently undergoing a corporate branding campaign which will see all of the information we produce carry a fresh new identity. We are also merging with local community services meaning we have a wider target audience and a more varied environment in which the information will be delivered. This means a busy time is anticipated for our small team in the Medical Illustration department. I have a BA Hons degree in Graphic Design and I am an associate member of the Institute of Medical Illustrators.

Specific areas of expertise:

• Design of patient information ensuring it is produced in the correct trust format which follows national guidelines and incorporates the NHS branding. The presentation of information is important to a patient and as a graphic designer I understand the methodology behind effective layout design which utilises different fonts, colours and styling. I have a particular interest in producing accessible information for those with disabilities.

• Advising on content and structure of patient information. I am part of our trusts Patient Information Group, we check and advise on Patient Information leaflets and are responsible for the production of the Patient Information Policy. I benefit from learning about current issues regarding Patient Information from a wide range of staff in the Trust and obtain patient feedback via the trusts PALs manager who chairs the group.

• Keeping the database of patient information artwork up to date and ensuring that the information being circulated is current. We have developed a comprehensive database within Medical Illustration which keeps track of all the Patient Information we produce. This enables us to retrieve a particular piece of artwork and it also has the facility to send out emails to clients to remind them of when leaflets are out of date and need reviewing.

• Finding the most cost effective solutions in regards to production of information and printing. I have previous experience within the printing industry and understand budgets are limited within many healthcare organisations. My job role entails finding the best methods and formats for producing information for patients. I also have experience in website design and understand that although there is still a need for printed material there is a new generation of people that require their information in electronic format.

I see my role in patient information as very hands on and can advise on a wide range of patient information enquiries. It is helpful for people to communicate and network with professionals in similar roles so feel free to contact me if you need any advice or would like any more information on joining PiF.