A few weeks ago, we welcomed Eyam Surgery into the DHU family, a move that has deepened our commitment to providing exceptional care to the community. Among the dedicated team at Eyam is Marie Brown, who has been the welcoming face of Eyam Surgery's reception for over 30 years.
Marie's journey with Eyam began when she was seeking a new opportunity closer to home after her previous employer relocated. "I came across this perfect role right here in the village," Marie recalls. Starting as a receptionist, Marie remembers the days when they also handled dispensing alongside their administrative duties.
Being the longest-serving member of the team, Marie has naturally become a mother figure to many of the younger staff. "They often come to me for advice, and if I can't help, I usually know the best place to point them in right direction.
"Day-to-day my role is bustling with patient calls and urgent care inquiries. It's about assessing the queries and determining the best care for our patients. Whether it's booking appointments or assisting with prescriptions, every day is different.
“Over the years, I’ve witnessed a significant increase in demand, especially given Eyam's popularity as a tourist destination. Despite the challenges, what I love most about Eyam is its strong sense of community.”
Recalling one of her proudest moments, Marie shares, "A mother once called about her child who was very unwell. I suspected meningitis and advised her to do the glass test on the rash. Thankfully, the child received prompt medical attention, highlighting the impact we can make in people's lives."
“I really appreciate how technology has changed how surgeries work, but at the heart of practice is always the patients. I’m just glad we don't have to dig through piles of paper anymore; everything we need is right at our fingertips with just a click," Marie shares.
“I’m excited about us being part of the DHU family. All these changes over the years have kept me young. I have friends who have retired who struggle when something changes on their phone, I think to myself ‘if you knew how much I have learnt today you’d be shocked’.”
As for the future, Marie hopes to continue serving the Eyam community for as long as possible, embodying the dedication and passion that make her an invaluable member of the DHU team.