The RCHT Podcast

What is it like to perform surgery using a robot? In this special episode, we go behind the scenes of Cornwall's first robot-assisted operation, hear from the surgeon who led the procedure, Professor James Clark, and discover how this groundbreaking technology will transform care for patients across the county.

In this episode we continue our celebration of Filipino Cultural Month and this year’s theme: Hiraya; a word that represents hope, dreams, and the courage to make them a reality.Andrea Alpuerto, a Renal Specialist Practitioner at Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust is in the studio and shares her journey from the Philippines to Cornwall.Andrea reflects on what inspired her to become a nurse, the challenges of working far from home, and the sacrifices that come with building a life in a new country. She speaks honestly about missing important moments with family, adapting to a different culture, and finding strength through community and resilience.She also offers insight into her role supporting patients and families at some of the most difficult times, highlighting the compassion and dedication behind healthcare.

In this special episode, we’re celebrating Filipino Cultural Appreciation Month and exploring this year’s theme: Hiraya, a beautiful Filipino word that represents hope, imagination, and the courage to realise your dreams.Peter Young is joined by Paola Pilapil, a Clinical Practice Educator at Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, who shares her inspiring journey from the Philippines to Cornwall.Paola reflects on what led her into healthcare, the challenges of working far from home, and the role that community, resilience, and culture play in shaping her experience in the NHS. She also shares what Hiraya means to her, not just as a word, but as a mindset in both her personal and professional life.

In this episode of The RCHT Podcast, we’re taking a look back at our latest Board meeting with Chair David Allen and Acting Chief Executive Kim O’Keeffe.We discuss some of the key themes from the meeting, including what we’ve heard from staff through the latest survey and wider feedback, and how that is shaping our priorities over the coming months.Kim shares her reflections from her first Board meeting as Acting Chief Executive, and outlines the focus on creating a culture where colleagues feel supported, valued and able to speak up. We also explore the Board’s commitment to openness and accountability, and how public questions help keep the organisation grounded in what matters most.From culture and leadership visibility to practical improvements across our sites, this episode looks at how feedback is being turned into action and what colleagues can expect to see next.

This week, for Dementia Action Week, we’re exploring how a simple tool is helping staff deliver more personalised, compassionate care across Royal Cornwall Hospitals.“This Is Me” is a short document with a powerful impact, helping healthcare teams understand the person behind the patient, especially for those living with dementia.In this episode, we’re joined by Stephanie, Improvement Practitioner for Falls, Dementia and Delirium, who explains how small details, from how someone takes their tea to the things that matter most in their life — can make a significant difference to their experience in hospital.We discuss the challenges people with dementia can face in busy clinical environments, and how understanding someone’s preferences, routines and life story can improve communication, reduce distress, and support truly person-centred care.Read more here:https://royalcornwallhospitals.nhs.uk/2026/05/08/this-is-me-helping-us-provide-personalised-care/Download the This is Me form:https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/sites/default/files/2020-03/this_is_me_1553.pdf