In a significant announcement, Professor Sir Stephen Powis, the National Medical Director of NHS England, has declared his decision to step down this summer, concluding a tenure of over seven years.
This transition comes after a letter of notification to Amanda Pritchard in January, with Professor Powis slated to continue his service until early July. During this period, he will focus on the medical training review for postgraduate doctors, ongoing enhancements in stroke care, and fulfilling commitments to ongoing inquiries.
As the most senior doctor within the NHS in England, Professor Powis has been a pivotal figure, especially during the pandemic. His leadership was instrumental in navigating the health service through unprecedented challenges, offering steadfast support to frontline workers, and providing essential advice to the public through numerous government COVID briefings. A historic moment under his watch was the administration of the first COVID vaccine to Maggie Keenan in December 2020, marking a crucial milestone in the NHS’s battle against the virus and saving countless lives.
Speaking about his decision, Powis said:
“It has been an immense privilege to serve as national medical director for the NHS and I am incredibly grateful to have been supported by amazing colleagues working across the NHS to boost the experiences of patients.
“I have always been exceptionally proud to work in the NHS and while stepping down from this role, I remain passionate and committed to improving the health of patients and improving the experience of staff.
“My time in post has been dominated by the pandemic and its ongoing impact – I will forever be humbled by the extraordinary work of staff throughout the NHS to the greatest health emergency in a century and I am very proud of the support and advice I was personally able to give to staff, ministers and the public.”
Throughout his distinguished career, Professor Powis has spearheaded numerous national reviews and overseen the development and implementation of critical healthcare programmes. Noteworthy among these are the national cardiovascular, respiratory, and stroke programmes. He also played a key role in the creation of the first national patient safety strategy and the successful rollout of medical examiners, ensuring rigorous standards in patient care and safety.
Professor Powis's journey as National Medical Director began in 2018, following a 12-year tenure as Medical Director at the Royal Free NHS Trust. His departure marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to improving healthcare in England.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting said:
“Steve has provided outstanding clinical leadership to the NHS over the last eight years, including during the biggest health emergency our country has faced in modern history. His knowledge, professionalism, and guidance helped the NHS rise to the challenges created by the pandemic.
“I would like to thank Steve, not only for his pivotal role in the COIVD vaccine roll out, but for all his work as medical director, including overseeing the team’s work in the creation of the national patient safety strategy.
“Between now and July, I look forward to working with Steve and the new leadership of NHS England under Jim Mackey, as we publish the 10 Year Plan for Health and combine investment with reform to build an NHS fit for the future.”
As Professor Powis prepares to step down, the NHS faces the challenge of finding a successor who can continue his mission of enhancing healthcare standards and addressing future challenges. His contributions have set a high benchmark, and his influence will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
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