Nigel Acheson has joined the Care Quality Commission (CQC) as deputy chief inspector of hospitals.
He is stepping into the role that Professor Ted Baker left vacant in August 2017 when he became chief inspector of hospitals at the CQC. On joining the health and social care regulatory body in the autumn, Mr Acheson will report to Professor Baker.
In joining the CQC, Mr Acheson will leave his current position as regional medical director and higher level responsible officer for the South Region at NHS England.
Professor Baker said: ‘I am delighted that Nigel will be joining the CQC at this important time in our inspection programme.
‘He brings to the CQC a wealth of experience and a track record of professional and clinical leadership.’
Dr Acheson trained in Birmingham and was appointed as a consultant gynaecological oncologist in 2002, moving to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital in Exeter to help develop its gynaecological cancer centre.
He was an advocate for the involvement of patients as partners in their own care during his time as a national advisor and clinical lead to the Department of Health’s enhanced recovery partnership programme.
As medical director for the Peninsula Cancer Network in the South West of England, Dr Acheson assisted with the re-establishment of the patient and public group.
Commenting on his appointment, Dr Acheson said: ‘I have always been passionate about patient care and in my new role I am looking forward to continuing to ensure that the best quality health and social care is provided for patients.’
