Recognition for Highland nursing and midwifery expert after supporting patients in Africa

A healthcare expert who specialises in long-term conditions has been awarded a Professorship by the University of the Highlands and Islands.

Dr Nicola Carey, head of UHI's department for nursing and midwifery, has been granted the title in recognition of her work in education, research and innovation.

Prof Carey, who lives in Abriachan, is a qualified nurse with over 20 years' experience in teaching and developing curriculum in clinical and academic settings.

She has helped to secure over £3 million in competitive research funding, has spoken at national and international conferences and is currently leading the development of a new MSc in rural advanced practice. She is vice-chairwoman of the Association of Prescribers and a committee member of the International Collaboration for Community Health Nursing Research.

Prof Carey's research focuses on developing and evaluating innovation in clinical practice related to long-term conditions and workforce development.

A recent project, undertaken with colleagues at the Universities of Surrey and Strathclyde, Hospice Ethiopia, the Federal Ministry of Health and Hello Doctor, an Ethiopia-based software company, developed an app to support patients needing end-of-life care in Ethiopia. It is hoped the app will be further developed and tested to support patients in several rural areas of Ethiopia, other African countries and Scotland.

Prof Carey said: "I am thrilled to be awarded a Professorship in recognition of my national and international academic portfolio that serves to enhance nursing, healthcare practice and strengthens the emerging academic profile of the department of nursing and midwifery, along with that of the School of Health, Social Care and Life Sciences."

Vicki Nairn, interim principal and vice-chancellor of UHI, said: "The title of Professor is reserved for academics who have established distinguished international reputations in their research or scholarship. Professor Carey has dedicated her career to improving the care of people with long-term health conditions in the UK and in countries across the globe. I am delighted her work has been recognised in this way."

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.