Kate Granger

Kate Granger

Kate Granger MBE (1981 – 23 July 2016) was an English geriatrician and a National Health Service (NHS) consultant, who became renowned for her work in improving the care of patients in the NHS. She was also a prolific fundraiser and advocate for better patient care, particularly in the context of terminal illness. Granger was the founder of the '#hellomynameis' campaign, a global campaign that encourages healthcare staff to introduce themselves to patients in order to improve communication and patient care.

Early Life and Education

Kate Granger was born in 1981 in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire. She pursued her medical education at the University of Edinburgh, where she graduated with a degree in Medicine. Following her graduation, Granger specialized in geriatric medicine, a field that focuses on the health care of elderly people.

Career

Throughout her career, Granger worked as a consultant in geriatric medicine within the NHS. Her work involved providing care for elderly patients, with a focus on those who were terminally ill. Granger was passionate about improving the patient experience and advocated for compassionate care within the healthcare system.

#hellomynameis Campaign

In 2013, while receiving treatment for cancer, Granger initiated the '#hellomynameis' campaign after noticing that many healthcare professionals did not introduce themselves before providing care. The campaign quickly gained momentum and received widespread support from healthcare workers and organizations around the world. It emphasized the importance of healthcare professionals making a personal connection with their patients by starting every interaction with a simple introduction.

Personal Life

Kate Granger was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in 2011, which significantly influenced her work and advocacy. Despite her diagnosis, she continued to work and campaign for better patient care until her death in 2016.

Legacy

Kate Granger's work and the '#hellomynameis' campaign have had a lasting impact on the NHS and healthcare practices globally. Her efforts have been recognized with several awards, including being appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to the NHS and improving care.

Death

Kate Granger passed away on 23 July 2016, at the age of 34, after a five-year battle with cancer. Her death was widely mourned, and her legacy continues to influence healthcare professionals and the way care is provided.

Awards and Recognition

• Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to the NHS and improving care.

See Also

• Patient-centered care
• National Health Service
• Geriatric medicine