one4review | On 25, Aug 2022

During our latest appointment Dr Hammond talks us through his unorthodox journey through medicine and tells us how he helped shake the NHS into accountability by breaking rank and whistleblowing – ensuing lasting change.

He tells us about his early life as a ginger pom in Australia who returns to the UK after the death of his father. He goes on to study medicine. Once (almost) qualified he is unleashed on the unsuspecting public armed with his instruction manual. Liver Biopsy? Page 4. Post partum vaginal repair? Easy Peasy – page 26. Inevitably Dr Hammond needs help and guidance, he doesn’t want to have his mistakes covered up or for patients to suffer due to the incompetence of medical staff.

Along the way he tells us about how some doctors recorded consultations using acronyms – anyone familiar with TF BUNDY? (Totally F*cked But Unfortunately Not Dead Yet) Ever met anyone who is Pumpkin Positive?

But along with the laughs there are serious undertones mixed in with deeply personal revelations from Dr Hammond. He skilfully weaves these through 50 minutes of his self-deprecating set. He tells us about his involvement in exposing ineffective NHS practice in Bristol (The Bristol Heart Scandal) and the exposure of an old boys network, and lax attitudes towards patient safety due to secrecy about Doctor’s performance and mortality rates.

All in all a very enjoyable show from Dr Hammond. Those who have seen Dr Hammond’s Covid Enquiry may have their interest piqued into attending How I Ruined Medicine and should take the opportunity to become better acquainted with the affable Doctor.

4****
Reviewed by Lyndsey
The Space – Surgeon’s Hall – Fleming Theatre
21.40 (50mins)
Until 27th Aug