New medical director moves in from Falkland

NHS SHETLAND has appointed the former chief medical officer of the Falkland Islands as its new medical director.

Dr Roger Diggle will take up his new part time post at the beginning of December. It is hoped that he will also take up a clinical role as a GP.

The role as medical director became vacant when Ken Graham resigned from the post in August last year. The post has been filled temporarily by the Gilbert Bain Hospital’s other physician Dr Jim Unsworth.

On Monday, Shetland health board chief executive Ralf Roberts said the health care in the isles would benefit from Dr Diggle’s professional role in the Falkland Islands during the last 20 years.

“The role of medical director is key for any board and I look forward to working with Dr Diggle.

“He brings a range of experience across both primary and acute care and having worked in the Falklands, fully recognises the issues with remote healthcare.”

The medical director provides medical advice and input to the health board and leadership in the development of the organisation’s clinical services.

Dr Diggle said: “The issues facing Shetland with regard to delivering high quality healthcare in a remote setting are similar to those we faced in the Falkland Islands.

“I am confident that I can work with the all the clinical staff, the chief executive and members of the health board to ensure the best possible healthcare for the Shetland community.”