Wales' leading doctor Sir Dr Frank Atherton has announced he will
stand down after eight and half years as the Welsh Government's
Chief Medical Officer.
Sir Frank has provided independent advice to the Welsh Government
on all major issues affecting the health sector in Wales.
During his tenure in Wales, after a previous post in Canada, Sir
Frank played a leading role in Wales' response to the Covid
pandemic and has supported the NHS through flu outbreaks and
annual winter pressures.
Speaking about Sir Frank's decision to stand down, Health
Secretary said: “Sir Frank has provided
invaluable advice and guidance, which I am hugely grateful for.
“He played a leading role in our response to the pandemic,
ensuring people throughout Wales received valuable information
about the virus and about how to keep themselves and their loved
ones safe. I wish him all the best for the future.”
Judith Paget, chief executive of NHS Wales, said:
“Frank has shown how passionate he is about improving health
outcomes for the Welsh population and has led the way on
improving the quality of healthcare.
“It has been a privilege to work with him and to have the benefit
of his experience and commitment to new approaches.
“He has played a crucial role in being the Welsh voice around the
table with other UK Chief Medical Officers, government
departments and organisations”
Sir Frank has been responsible for leading the medical
profession in Wales and the development of health and care
research.
Speaking ahead of leaving his post, Sir Frank said: "
It has been a privilege to act as CMO and a highlight of my
professional career to have served the people of Wales during
this incredibly challenging time.
“I would like to thank all those other civil servants, who have
worked tirelessly behind the scenes, who have assisted me for
almost a decade in this role.”
Frank Atherton's successor will be announced in due course.
Notes to editors
Sir Frank, who is originally from Lancashire, was knighted in
2021 for his services to public health during the pandemic.
He was previously the deputy chief medical officer of health in
the Department of Health and Wellness in Nova Scotia, Canada, the
director of public health in North Lancashire and has served as
President of the UK Association of Directors of Public Health.
