Saloni's story

Can you tell us a little about your journey to HCA UK?

I joined HCA UK in 2021 after spending seven years in the NHS, where I completed my training, gained my clinical qualifications and independent prescribing accreditation, and developed my career within the same trust.

Like many healthcare professionals, the pandemic made me reflect on what I wanted next. I loved patient care, but I was looking for new opportunities to grow and challenge myself. That's when I discovered HCA UK and, looking back, I'm so glad I took that leap.

I joined as a Senior Specialist Pharmacist, progressed to Advanced Clinical Pharmacist, and in 2025 was promoted to Lead Oncology Pharmacist. Along the way, I've worked with leading consultants, expanded my expertise and helped deliver innovative cancer treatments that can make a real difference to patients' lives.

What does your role as Lead Oncology Pharmacist involve?

No two days are ever the same, which is one of the things I love most about my role.

I lead our inpatient oncology pharmacy team, combining leadership, clinical expertise and service development. One moment I might be supporting colleagues and solving operational challenges, and the next I'm reviewing treatments, focusing on patient safety or helping introduce new medicines and services.

The variety is incredibly rewarding. I work closely with pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, nurses, consultants and many other colleagues, all working together to deliver the best possible care.

What do you enjoy most about working at HCA UK?

For me, it's the combination of learning, collaboration and opportunity.

The role is constantly evolving, which keeps things interesting and encourages me to keep developing. I've also had the chance to work with colleagues across nursing, medical, governance and operational teams, broadening my experience and helping me grow both professionally and personally.

What has kept you at HCA UK?

Simply put, the people.

From day one, I've been struck by the shared commitment to patient care. Everyone is focused on achieving the best outcomes for patients, and that creates a genuinely supportive environment.

The people you work with make a huge difference, and I've always felt surrounded by colleagues who share the same values and passion for making a positive impact. That culture of teamwork is a big reason why I continue to enjoy working here.

What do you love most about pharmacy?

World Pharmacy Day is a chance to celebrate the incredible impact pharmacy teams make every day. Pharmacy is about so much more than medicines. We're advocates, problem-solvers and trusted members of the wider healthcare team, helping ensure patients receive safe, effective and personalised care.

What excites me most is how the profession continues to evolve. Pharmacists are leading services, running specialist clinics and taking on prescribing responsibilities that allow us to make an even greater difference.

Working in oncology, I see first-hand how expertise, innovation and collaboration can change lives. Being part of that journey is incredibly rewarding. Above all, I'm proud of the compassion, teamwork and commitment that define our profession and our shared focus on exceptional patient care.