The practice of medicine has always demanded competence, but today’s patients ask for something more. Across women’s healthcare in particular, there is a growing expectation that treatment be paired with genuine understanding, that clinical decisions reflect not just diagnosis but the lived experience of the person receiving care. This shift has reshaped what excellence in the field now means.
Gynaecology sits at the centre of this change. Few specialties require such a careful balance between medical precision and emotional awareness, as the issues involved are rarely purely physical. With advancements in treatment and technology accelerating, the true measure of a skilled practitioner lies in how thoughtfully that progress is applied to each individual patient.
It is against this backdrop that Tamar Achjian has built her career. As a Consultant Gynaecologist at Harley Street Medical Centre, she has cultivated a practice defined by attentive listening, clinical discipline, and an unwavering focus on the patient as a whole person rather than a set of symptoms to be managed.
Her standing in the field rests not only on strong credentials and years of dedicated training, but also on a leadership philosophy that extends into how she guides teams and mentors emerging clinicians. It is this combination of expertise and principle that makes her perspective particularly compelling.
Let’s delve into the interview details below!
What inspired you to pursue a career in gynaecology, and how has your professional journey shaped your approach to women’s healthcare?
My decision to pursue gynaecology was deeply personal. As a woman, I understand that many aspects of women’s health are closely connected to emotional wellbeing, confidence, and quality of life. I was drawn to a specialty where I could combine clinical expertise with empathy, supporting women through important stages of their lives.
Throughout my career, caring for women of different ages and backgrounds has reinforced my belief that every patient deserves to feel heard, respected, and involved in her care. These experiences have shaped a compassionate, patient-centred approach that focuses not only on treating medical conditions but also on supporting each woman’s overall wellbeing.
As a Consultant Gynaecologist at Harley Street Medical Centre, how do you approach delivering personalised and patient-centric care?
I believe personalised care begins with listening. Every woman has unique health needs influenced by her medical history, lifestyle, and personal goals, so I take time to understand each patient and tailor treatment accordingly.
Creating a safe, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing sensitive concerns is equally important. I also believe in empowering women through education by clearly explaining diagnoses and treatment options, enabling them to make informed decisions. My goal is to build trusting relationships while delivering compassionate, high-quality care.
How would you define your leadership style when collaborating with medical teams and supporting patient care initiatives?
My leadership style is collaborative, approachable, and patient-focused. I believe the best outcomes are achieved when multidisciplinary teams work together in an environment built on mutual respect, open communication, and shared responsibility.
I lead by example, maintain high clinical standards, and encourage continuous learning and mentorship for junior colleagues. Above all, my leadership decisions are guided by what is best for the patient, ensuring that teamwork consistently delivers safe, compassionate, and high-quality care.
What are some of the key challenges you have encountered in your career, and how have they influenced your growth as a healthcare professional?
One of the greatest challenges has been managing complex cases that carry significant emotional as well as medical implications. These experiences have strengthened my ability to combine sound clinical judgement with empathy, clear communication, and emotional support for patients and their families.
Working in a fast-paced, constantly evolving healthcare environment has also reinforced the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability. Together, these experiences have shaped me into a more resilient, compassionate, and patient-centred clinician committed to treating the whole person.
In a rapidly evolving medical field, how do you stay ahead with the latest advancements and innovations in gynaecology?
I stay current through continuous professional development, including attending international conferences, workshops, accredited educational programmes, and regularly reviewing the latest medical research and clinical guidelines.
Collaboration with colleagues and multidisciplinary teams also provides valuable opportunities to exchange knowledge and improve patient care. While I embrace innovation, I believe every new advancement should be applied thoughtfully and tailored to each patient’s individual needs.
Which achievements or recognitions in your career hold the most significance for you and why?
Obtaining my American Board Certification is one of my proudest professional achievements, reflecting years of dedication, rigorous training, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of patient care.
However, the accomplishments I value most are the positive outcomes and lasting relationships I have built with my patients. Their trust, gratitude, and confidence are the greatest rewards, alongside opportunities to mentor colleagues and contribute to improving women’s healthcare.
How do you manage the demands of your profession while maintaining a healthy work-life balance?
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential to providing the best possible care. I prioritise effective time management, personal wellbeing, and spending quality time with family and friends, which helps me remain focused, resilient, and fully present for my patients.
I view balance as creating harmony between professional responsibilities and personal life. Taking care of my own wellbeing enables me to continue delivering compassionate care while leading effectively.
What are your future aspirations in advancing your practice and contributing to the field of women’s health, and what advice would you offer to aspiring gynaecologists?
My goal is to continue providing evidence-based, patient-centred care while embracing innovations that improve outcomes and the patient experience. I am also passionate about contributing to women’s health through education, mentorship, and promoting greater awareness of preventive care.
For aspiring gynaecologists, my advice is to combine strong clinical skills with empathy and excellent communication. Remain committed to lifelong learning, embrace new developments in medicine, and always remember to treat the individual, not just the condition. Building trust with patients is one of the most rewarding aspects of this profession.
