Another world first for Pathology

Ian Hughes, Mortuary Manager at Noble’s Hospital is the first in the world to be successful in obtaining a Masters of Science MSc degree in Death, Bereavement and Human Tissue Studies. The MSc was a new distance learning course based at Staffordshire University with Ian being in the first cohort of students.

Ian is delighted at his MSc success and for this to be the first in the world adds to this.

" I found the experience of studying at this level very challenging and rewarding. The many hundreds of hours spent researching this sensitive area has provided a higher level of understanding of death and bereavement, which will ultimately enhance the service provided by the Mortuary Department at Noble’s Hospital in the Isle of Man." Ian Hughes, Mortuary Manager

Pathology Manager, Tony McMaster went on to say

"This is great news for Ian who has worked extremely hard to obtain this qualification and this can only benefit the service delivery which is already at a high standard. In these days of limited funding this course has cost virtually nothing as Ian had successfully applied for a Bursary awarded by the Pathological Society of Great Britain & Ireland."

The knowledge gained from undertaking the MSc will provide long-term benefits such as creating a benchmark against which the Mortuary Service can be measured. Other areas have already had an immediate impact. For example, offering advice to members of the public who present queries regarding how to bequeath bodies to medical research etc. Further to this, Doctors are also being provided with training and guidance in relation to the correct completion of death documentation.

The staff at the Mortuary Department meet bereaved families and friends almost on a daily basis and whilst they do not provide a full counselling service, guidance and support is offered in what can be a very distressing time. Ian has always believed that those who are in the unfortunate position to require the services of the Mortuary Department must be treated with utmost respect and dignity.

Ian would like to thank the DHSS for giving him the opportunity to undertake the MSc and particularly Tony McMaster for his guidance and support.