We are excited to share that Cardiac Physiologist, Chris Collins recently completed his Diploma in Medical Ultrasound (Cardiac), making him our newest qualified Cardiac Sonographer in the Dunedin Hospital team!
We are excited to share that Cardiac Physiologist, Chris Collins recently completed his Diploma in Medical Ultrasound (Cardiac), making him our newest qualified Cardiac Sonographer in the Dunedin Hospital team!
Growing up in Nelson, both parents were vets, however, Chris was more interested in human healthcare. Following this passion, Chris studied Biomedical Science and Medical Technology at the University of Otago, and started working as a Trainee Cardiac Physiologist in Dunedin Hospital in 2017.
Chris’s further pursuit in medical ultrasonography was well supported by the team he works with. “There are many training opportunities on the job, and I feel lucky to have the team to support my continuous learning,” Chris says. He emphasises that the supportive team culture has been helping new trainees to get into the role more quickly and comfortably, as he has been through that process.
“I have settled in my new role quite nicely as a Cardiac Sonographer. It is a busy job working with many colleagues from different departments, but we all have one goal in mind: do the best we can to help the patient.”
James Cadogan, Charge Cardiac Sonographer, says that Chris has dedicated himself to get the most out of his cardiac ultrasound training, striving to understand and overcome any challenges he has encountered.
“It is clear that Chris values the opportunity to obtain skills and provide valuable diagnostic information. As his skills have progressed, he has relished having new abilities that he can apply to affect a patient’s diagnosis and outcome.
Chris has not only challenged himself over the past few years, but also his seniors!”
Speaking of challenges, Chris told us that one of them on the job is no two hearts are the same. “Getting the images needed really gives me a kick. I enjoy the visual aspect of the work; and giving patients the support they need also makes me happy. ”
Chris thinks cardiac sonography is a rewarding job which offers a lot of scope in cardiology and valuable learning that keeps him interested.
Living up to his enthusiasm for heart, Chris enjoys doing cardio exercise outdoors when he is free. He often can be found playing squash with friends or mountain biking around Dunedin on a sunny day.