Andy Swinburn appointed Trust's first Director of Paramedicine
THE Welsh Ambulance Service has appointed its first Director of Paramedicine.
Following a competitive recruitment process open externally to suitably qualified and experienced applicants, we are delighted to announce that Andy Swinburn QAM FCPara has been appointed to the role of Director of Paramedicine.
Andy joined #TeamWAST in 2017 as Assistant Director of Paramedicine, later securing promotion to Associate Director in January 2020.
During this period, he has been at the forefront of developments in clinical practice, including as a leading proponent of advanced and extended paramedic practice.
Andy has more recently championed key elements of our future strategy.
Chief Executive Jason Killens said the appointment to the role was a significant moment in the Trust’s clinical journey and for the UK ambulance sector more widely.
He said: “The Director of Paramedicine role is a first for the Welsh Ambulance Service and one which signals our commitment to the development of paramedicine as a profession in our organisation.
“Andy will be a member of the Executive Team and Trust Board and will assume full responsibility for what has historically been the Medical Directorate from 01 January 2022.
“In Andy we have found a passionate and innovative advocate for the profession who has already made a huge contribution to the organisation.
“Having Andy in this role gives our paramedics and the profession more broadly their rightful seat at the Board table as we continue to evolve and develop as a provider of a range of clinically-based services.”
Andy added: “I am truly elated to have been appointed to the role of Director of Paramedicine.
“This has been a challenging selection process in which I am pleased to have been successful.
“However, I am most excited about taking a lead role within our future strategic direction and play my part in shaping our service to deliver even better care to the people of Wales.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to offer my thanks to the numerous members of #TeamWAST that have supported me since my arrival in 2017 and more latterly through the selection process.
“We have great people here in Wales and I know that together we can take things forward in a progressive and positive manner – thank you.”
Editors Notes
For more information, please call Head of Communications Lois Hough on 01745 778671 or email Lois.Hough@wales.nhs.uk