Individuals and group nominated

FIVE individuals and a healthcare group from Tayside have been selected as finalists at the Scottish Health Awards 2017.

John Pritchard, paramedic team leader for Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance, has been shortlisted for the leader of the year award. John, who was recently awarded an MBE, brings passion, motivation, humour, understanding and dedication to a highly demanding and constantly evolving role at one of Scotland most unique charities.

Debbie McFarlane, who is a nurse at the Links Health Centre, Montrose, has been named as a finalist for the nurse award. Debbie is described as an extraordinary and inspirational person and has been praised for always going the extra mile for her patients and colleagues alike.

The full list of NHS Tayside finalists also i ncludes: The Tayside CAMHS Outpatient Eating Disorders team, for the care for mental health award; Karen Thomson, director of Realise Support and Learning Services, for the care for long-term illness award; Niall McGoldrick, a dental care trainee at Dundee Dental Hospital, for the young achiever award; and Julie Stewart, support worker at Murray Royal Hospital, for the healthier lifestyle award.

NHS Tayside chairman Professor John Connell said: “I’m delighted to congratulate the finalists.

“To be a finalist is a wonderful achievement as these awards acknowledge the dedication and commitment of our staff to enhancing our services.”