We caught up with the Nurse/Nursing Team of the Year Award shortlist ahead of this year’s General Practice Awards ceremony to be held on 6 December at the Novotel London West.
Diana Housego’s dedication and approach have set high standards in patient care and staff development at Havergal Surgery in Tottenham, north London, earning her a place on the shortlist for the Nursing Award at the General Practice Awards 2024.
As an advanced nurse practitioner, Diana has not only worked to address the operational efficiency of the practice but has also set out to improve the wellbeing of her patients and colleagues through her innovative solutions and compassionate leadership.
Diana’s impact is evident from her role in overhauling the practice’s triage system. Recognising the need to address bottlenecks during peak periods, she led a comprehensive review and redesign of the existing processes.
The result is a streamlined approach that enables staff to quickly and accurately assess patient needs, prioritising urgent cases and reducing waiting times by over 30%. This transformation has led to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction, with Diana leading morning triage clinics to ensure the system’s continued success.
Beyond her operational contributions, Diana has demonstrated an impressive commitment to patient education. She launched a chronic disease management programme aimed at equipping patients with the knowledge and tools they need to cope with their conditions more effectively.
Diana’s approach – emphasising clear communication and patient empowerment – has led to fewer emergency visits and hospitalisations. Her patients are also now more engaged and there is greater adherence to treatment plans.
A practice patient commented: ‘Before meeting Diana, managing my diabetes felt overwhelming. She took the time to explain my condition in ways I could understand and helped me feel in control of my health again. Her patience and dedication have changed my life for the better.’
Her influence goes beyond patient care and extends to the professional growth of her colleagues. She regularly organises training sessions covering essential topics such as diabetic management and interpreting diagnostic results, ensuring her team remains at the cutting edge of clinical practice. Her focus on education fosters a supportive environment where staff feel equipped and confident to deliver high standards of care.
According to colleagues, a defining feature of Diana’s leadership style is ability to foster collaboration and champion best practice. She has also been pivotal in mentoring new staff, with colleagues crediting her for their professional growth and the supportive atmosphere she cultivates.
One colleague commented: ‘Diana’s leadership has been transformative for our practice. She not only teaches us the latest in-patient care but inspires us with her commitment to our patients’ wellbeing. Her ability to unite and motivate our team is unmatched.’
One patient added: ‘I can’t imagine a more deserving nurse for this award’.
She commented: ‘I am very passionate about my patients, in providing them with excellent quality, research-based care. I am a confident decision maker who always aims to provide patients with patient high quality standard and excellent care. I feel honoured to be nominated for this outstanding achievement.’
