Two senior consultants in Manchester have been recognised for their skill and experience by being appointed as National Clinical Directors in their specialist fields.
Ngozi edi-Osagie, consultant Neonatologist at Saint Mary’s Hospital and Professor Simon Ray, consultant cardiologist at Wythenshawe Hospital, were named as clinical leads for neonatology and heart disease respectively.
National Clinical Directors (NCD) are practising clinicians from across England who dedicate part of their time to providing clinical leadership and insight to NHS England to support services ranging from cancer to emergency care and major trauma.
Along with six other brand-new appointments, Ngozi and Simon were named in the list of 19 NCDs published by NHS England. The purpose of these roles is to ensure that services are meeting the targets of the NHS Long Term Plan to meet the evolving needs of patients and communities.
Ngozi is also chair of NHS England Clinical Reference Group for Neonatal Critical Care and is co-chair of the community collaborative partnership between MFT and the Greater Manchester Caribbean and African Health Network.
Ngozi said: “Since starting as a consultant neonatologist back in 2002, the outcomes for neonates have improved significantly, and parents are much more involved, but there is still more work to be done to help our patients. I am delighted that NHS England have created this brand new National Clinical Director post to address the continued transformation of neonatal services and it’s a privilege to take up this important opportunity”.
Professor Ray has previously worked as President of the British Cardiovascular Society between 2018 and 2021 and currently works as joint national lead for Cardiology GIRFT (Getting It Right First Time).
Professor Ray said: “It’s an honour to be appointed as a national lead for heart disease. This is a major cause of ill health and premature death in England, therefore this role is a huge opportunity to take steps in preventing and treating this illness. I hope to bring my expertise and experience to support the development of services that are vital to our communities.”