Meet Le-Shane Heugh, radiographer and Head of Department at SCP Radiology Paarl. As HOD, she is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the branch – a busy in-hospital radiology department offering comprehensive medical imaging services for both admitted and outpatients.

Le-Shane has been part of the SCP team since 2010. She started as a junior radiographer at SCP Radiology Cape Gate, then relocated to Paarl four years later. She has since progressed to 2IC and finally to HOD in April 2024.

As HOD, she sees and manages it all: trauma CTs, challenging MRIs, balancing ward lists with a full reception area, patients who need support, staff who rely on her for guidance, and a community of professionals who need to be kept informed.

“Let me assure you, it’s not always easy. But no matter the situation that presents itself, the only choice is to remain as calm and collected as is humanly possible,” she says.

Managing different personalities and expectations is a particularly challenging aspect of the position, she adds. “I always step back to get an objective view before I action the next step.

“What also helps me, is the fact that my husband is very involved in the community. I often know our patients from elsewhere. That’s an added layer of responsibility I’m always aware of.”

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Balance and fulfilment

Despite working in a high-pressure environment day in and out, Le-Shane says she has mastered the art of finding balance and maintaining her own wellness. Apart from enjoying fresh air and sunshine whenever she gets the chance, she has developed the skill to segment her attention.

“When I step out the door after a day’s work, I switch off completely. It’s something I struggled with at the beginning of my career. Now it’s a self-taught skill that serves me well. It helps me at work and while working in the community.”

She believes this work-life balance is a key ingredient to a fulfilling career. So is growth and personal development. So is having a purpose.

“I enjoy working with our patients, making a difference in my own unique way. Every day at work is an opportunity to learn something new.”

This article is part of a series of short staff profiles by SCP Radiology to highlight radiography as a career. Read more about Radiography Careers in our News section.