Military And Civil Health Medics Recognised

Northern Ireland's Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey has hosted an awards ceremony recognising outstanding achievements of both military and civilian personnel in the health and care of the Armed Forces.

The awards celebrated world-class services in the field of medicine and social care to serving and ex-service personnel. They highlight partnership working between Defence Medical Services and civilian UK health and care providers.

Among the guests at Belfast City Hall were Andrew Lansley, the Secretary of State for Health in England, Paul Williams, Chief Executive Officer of NHS Wales, and the Surgeon General of the British Armed Forces, Surgeon Vice Admiral Philip Raffaelli.

Mr McGimpsey said: "I am honoured to host this ceremony in Belfast and to pay tribute to the exceptional achievements of the health and social care professionals who work so diligently in the care and treatment of our military personnel, both at home and abroad, their families and service veterans.



"All too often their exceptional, at times life threatening, work is unrecognised. These awards give a rare and humbling glimpse into the dedication they show on a daily basis.



"All those who have received awards and commendations may be justly proud of the vital work that they do.

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Winners at the third annual Military and Civilian Health Partnership Awards included civilian and military personnel from across the UK and overseas.



Andrew Lansley said: 

"The Armed Forces risk so much while on active service for our country. It is only right that the NHS and our healthcare partners work together to deliver a first class medical and social care service for veterans and services communities across the country.



"I want to congratulate all the winners - these awards recognise their dedication and the fantastic work they do everyday, whether deployed on operations or at home."

The winners in the nine categories of Awards included:

 Innovation and Service Development: Out of Hours Treatment in British Forces Germany,
 Education and Training: Military Operational Surgical Training - MOST

, Health Improvement and Promotion: RAF Lincolnshire and Phoenix Stop Smoking Network, Mental Health: Mental Health Inpatient Services, and the Healthcare Reservist of the Year.

(BMcN/BMcC)