HSJ unveils its inaugural Patient Leaders

The inaugural patient leaders awards aim to recognise the full breath of patients’ and citizens’ role in healthcare. This includes individuals shaping national policy and influencing the NHS nationally and those making waves through being involved in their own care.

Since HSJ recognises leadership in all contexts within the healthcare sector – female leaders, topmost provider chief executives, rising stars, clinical leaders, black and minority ethnic pioneers being cases in point – celebrating the contribution of patient leaders was the next logical decision.

We invited nominations via HSJ website and Twitter, which formed the basis of our longlist. Subsequently, a panel of expert judges reviewed the longlist and added their suggestions, thereby deciding on the final 50 names at a judging event in May.

While the concept and definition of “patient leader” did generate debate, the judges ultimately decided to include those individuals whose experience of care – either directly as a patient or indirectly as a carer – had shaped their leadership.

The judges looked at demonstrable impact, inspiration and how had their  ideas or actions improved delivery of services.

The winners range from a young patient champion who is just 15 to well known campaigners and leaders.