The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has appointed Professor David Strain as its Chief Medical Advisor, pledging to deliver “improvements” for people living with long-term health conditions.
Professor Strain joins the DWP from the University of Exeter, the NHS and the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST), where he served as Thematic Research Lead for Health. He has committed to supporting individuals with long-term health conditions and to translating “evidence” into “practical improvements” for those with chronic health problems.
New role and start date
Professor Strain will begin his new position at the end of August, the DWP has confirmed. He will take over from Dr Gail Allsopp in the role.
Throughout his career, he has held numerous senior leadership positions, including Chair of the British Medical Association Board of Science and Medical Advisor to Action for ME, the DWP confirmed in a press release announcing the appointment.
Clinical leadership and policy
As Chief Medical Advisor, Professor Strain will provide clinical leadership and specialist guidance to underpin the department’s activities, ensuring that clinical evidence and expertise shape policy development and service provision.
Professor Strain said: “I am delighted to be joining DWP as Chief Medical Advisor. Throughout my career I have been passionate about turning evidence into practical improvements for people, particularly those living with long-term health conditions. I look forward to working with colleagues across the Department and its clinical community to strengthen the contribution clinical professionals make to DWP's work and to the people we serve.”
