Dr David Moore was born and raised in Nottingham, England, where he spent most of his childhood and teenage years. David’s upbringing was straightforward, marked by the close-knit familiarity of Nottingham’s community. During his A-levels, David’s mother was in training to be a nurse, with her experiences giving him a glimpse into the healthcare world. Observing her journey and having the chance to visit hospitals piqued his interest in medicine, sparking a fascination with the inner workings of healthcare.
Dr David says:
"When I was a child, I was fortunate to be academically inclined, which opened doors to pursue the sciences needed for medicine. Encouraged by my teachers and inspired by a sense of purpose, I applied to various medical schools. As with many things in life, it’s a bit of a lottery, and I ended up in Manchester in England, a city that turned out to be perfect for my formative years.
"When asked at university interviews why I wanted to become a doctor, I couldn’t point to a singular, life-changing moment. It was more a culmination of influences: my academic environment, my mother’s training, and a natural curiosity about the human body and healthcare. I’ve always been drawn to understanding how things work, and medicine seemed to be a perfect fit.
"Starting university in 1995, Manchester was vibrant, especially with its burgeoning music scene. Bands like Oasis were just emerging, and the city was alive with creativity and energy. It was an exciting time to be in such a dynamic environment, balancing the demands of medical school with the opportunities to explore the culture around me.
"Medical school was both challenging and eye-opening. I remember the initial ambition among my peers, many of whom aspired to be professors or leading surgeons, but I quickly realised that surgery wasn’t for me. Not because of a fear of blood, but because I lacked the single-minded focus that it demanded. I felt that I enjoyed interacting with people too much to have them unconscious on an operating table.
"I also briefly considered paediatric cardiology, but after shadowing a paediatric cardiologist whose life revolved around a constantly ringing mobile phone, I realised the sacrifices required. The relentless demands didn’t align with my desire for a balanced life. Around this time, I met a GP in Manchester who left a lasting impression. He was confident, personable and seemed to have struck the perfect balance between work and life. It was the first time I saw someone thriving in medicine, and it left me thinking, "This is the kind of doctor I want to be."
"Graduating in 2000, I began my house officer training in Crewe at Leighton Hospital, a busy general hospital. It was a deliberate choice, as I wanted exposure to a wide variety of cases early on, rather than being in a specialised teaching hospital. Those initial years were a baptism of fire, with relentless shifts and an endless stream of patients, but they were invaluable in building my confidence and honing my skills.
"As my foundation years progressed, I gravitated more toward general practice. I joined the Chester GP training scheme, which was a highly sought-after programme. Over three years, I gained experience in hospital specialties like A&E, paediatrics, and obstetrics, alongside stints in general practice. This varied exposure not only broadened my knowledge but also reinforced my interest in primary care.
"By the time I completed my training, I had grown both personally and professionally. I spent some time in New Zealand with my wife, an experience that offered perspective on healthcare in a different system. Returning to the UK, I continued gaining experience through locum roles and additional training in neonatology and A&E. These roles helped me feel more prepared for the responsibilities of general practice.
"Eventually, life brought us back to the East Midlands, where I worked in North Nottinghamshire for several years. Later, driven by my wife’s career opportunities and a mutual desire to settle in Wales, we moved to Montgomeryshire, where I’ve found my professional home.
"I currently work in Llanidloes, a rural area in the heart of Powys, Mid Wales. My role offers a unique blend of primary and secondary care. In addition to running GP surgeries, I also provide medical care at the local community hospital, which has 14 inpatient beds. This diversity keeps my work stimulating and allows me to maintain a broad skill set.
"Working in rural practice comes with its challenges and rewards. We often serve as the first point of contact for seriously ill patients due to the long distance to the nearest A&E department. This makes our role even more critical in the community. Despite the demands, I find the work deeply fulfilling.
"I quickly found my footing when I moved to Wales and discovered that the Welsh NHS is more focused on clinical autonomy, allowing doctors to exercise their judgment without excessive bureaucracy. This freedom has made my work more rewarding and reminds me of the NHS's earlier days when patient care was the central focus.
"After 25 years in the NHS, I feel a sense of contentment in my career. I’ve reached a point where I no longer grapple with imposter syndrome. I know my strengths and limitations and feel confident in seeking support when needed. This self-assurance allows me to enjoy my work without the sleepless nights of earlier years.
"Outside of medicine, living in rural Wales has enriched my life. The natural beauty, opportunities for outdoor activities like sailing, and the vibrant community have made this an ideal place to raise a family.
"Looking ahead, I hope to continue building on this foundation, contributing to my community and enjoying the balance I’ve found in my career and personal life."
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