Meet The Member - Jiten of J&D Medical
j&d medical
We caught up with our member Jiten of J&D Medical to hear about his journey into pharmacy and how he's bringing personalised, same-day care to Harpenden.
We are happy to have you as a member of We Are Harpenden. We would love to hear about your journey. Have you always wanted to be a pharmacist?
In essence, no. Whilst studying for my GCSEs, I had to conduct a summer placement and as a result ended up working in my friend’s community pharmacy back home in Leicester. I know I wanted to do something medical-based, but I was not sure what to do. I knew I did not want to do medicine as undertaking a 5–6-year course just seemed too long, and dentistry…well, I did not want to look at people’s teeth all day, so the pharmacy almost seemed like a compromise. But honestly, I did not know what a pharmacist did before undertaking the course
What are people typically struggling with when they come to you?
A variety of conditions, to be honest. It can vary from pain relief (after being seen by one of the clinics I have collaborated with), weight loss, hormone testing, to more in-depth medication advice. My ethos is to give patients time to discuss their condition and provide in-depth medical advice so that they do not feel rushed but have the opportunity to ask questions…Ultimately, I want them to feel empowered post consultation and happy that they are making the right decision.
Is there anything that motivates you to work in this field?
Setting up a new business has been exciting as I have never undertaken such a task before. Meeting new patients for a variety of conditions enables me to build on my clinical acumen and enhance my previous hospital experience. Also, getting to know my patients well and building rapport is important.
In your view, why is it important for people to be able to see a healthcare professional like yourself?
We all know the NHS is stretched, and primary care services are also inundated. Pharmacists can do a lot, and being a prescriber, I have upskilled myself to provide clinical services at a date and time that is convenient for you. I aim to see and treat you on the same day. I pride myself on taking the time to go through your specific concern and jointly agree on a treatment plan. If I feel I cannot treat, I am more than happy to refer accordingly.
When did you first want to work in the medical industry? What prompted you towards this path?
My background has been in hospital pharmacy, and I thoroughly enjoyed my summer placements within the setting and worked in the environment up until 2012. Building experience in pediatrics as well as rheumatology, and gastroenterology. However, post COVID, I was burnt out and prompted me towards a career change…and hence now a commissioner for NHS England within the specialised commissioned team.
Is there anything that people feel particularly surprised by when it comes to your practice?
Three things really – being seen the same day, promptness of the service, and not being rushed. Patients usually obtain their medication within a few hours (as I have partnered with a particular pharmacy in Harpenden). I think that shocks patients, to be honest. The most important aspect for me is to ensure that they can start treatment as soon as possible (if clinically appropriate). Also, I pride myself in not rushing patients, ensuring that I have a thorough history and providing appropriate drug treatment advice… usually most consultations last 20-25 minutes. There is no time limit!
What is your favorite thing about running a business in Harpenden?
The networking and the collaborations that I have made. Also, building that rapport with patients…they come back! That pleases me as they are naturally happy with my service, and as a healthcare professional, that is all that you can ask for. Also, Harpenden being its own bubble, patients are now referring their friends to me, which again shows that they have faith in my service!
Looking forward, is there anything you are particularly excited about? Are there any plans you can share with us?
Growth and potentially setting up face-to-face clinics in the near future. Watch this space.
What do you like most about what you do?
Starting this from scratch, from literally a light bulb moment, and watching it grow. Also, having the support of other clinical practitioners encourages me!
Where in Harpenden is your favourite spot to go in your spare time?
If it’s not Café Nero (nanna bread shop according to my 2 gremlins!), then either at WeTrain or just walking in Rothy park!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I love martial arts, and I am a fourth-degree black belt in taekwondo. Also like to dabble in a bit of CrossFit too and love a playing table tennis.