A leading Black Country doctor has been shortlisted for one of her profession’s highest accolades, in recognition of her work in the field of psychiatry.
Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB), is one of the final three nominees for the “Psychiatrist of the Year” category in this year’s Royal College of Psychiatrists Awards.
The Royal College (RCPsych) is the professional body for psychiatrists in the UK and its annual awards celebrate the very best in clinical practice at all levels of the field.
Dr Dave said: “I’m thrilled to have been shortlisted for the RCPsych Psychiatrist of the Year Award. These awards are judged by those at the very top of our profession, so to be one of just three people shortlisted is a real honour.
“It’s particularly humbling to recognised in this way now, having recently moved largely from frontline clinical practice to focus on system leadership, as I will always be a psychiatrist at heart. Mental health will continue to be a priority as the ICB works with our local partners to tackle health inequalities and the impact these have on a person’s sense of self, belonging and wellbeing.”
Dr Dave is a Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist by background and has held a number of previous leadership roles in Midlands Trusts, including Executive Medical Director at Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Clinical Director at the former Dudley and Walsall Mental Health Partnership Trust.
She is President of the British Indian Psychiatric Association, a Fellow of the RCPsych, and holds Masters degrees in psychological medicine and in medical ethics and law. She is also an experienced medical educator and clinician who has established and led new services.
Mark Axcell, Chief Executive Officer of Black Country ICB, said: “I want to congratulate Ananta on this fantastic achievement.
“We’re very proud to have a doctor of her calibre as a member of our executive team, and Ananta has a clear commitment to improving health and wellbeing – both physical and mental – for the people of the Black Country.
“Myself and the rest of our Board and colleagues wish her the best of luck for the next stage of judging.”
The winners will be announced on Wednesday 9 November.
