Waikato DHB Chief Medical Advisor Appointed
Waikato Hospital clinical unit leader Dr Tom Watson has been appointed Waikato District Health Board chief medical advisor (CMA).
Dr Watson, who has been acting CMA since Dr Pim Allen resigned in May, takes up his appointment immediately.
Dr Watson will continue his current clinical duties which include two days a week of clinical anaesthesia - mostly paediatric and neuro anaesthesia.
Waikato DHB chief executive Craig Climo said in the three months he had worked with Dr Watson, he had been impressed by his understanding of the issues, his drive and enthusiasm and persistence in getting the job done.
Dr Watson, a South African with New Zealand citizenship, has worked in South Africa, London and Melbourne. He came to New Zealand in July 1986 to take up a position as senior registrar in the anaesthetics department at Waikato Hospital and until his appointment as CMA was the clinical unit leader for anaesthetics, operating theatres' intensive care and the emergency department.
In his spare time Dr Watson enjoys fly fishing, pheasant hunting, exercising, blues music, good food and good wine. His partner Susan Woodhouse is the Department of Conservation solicitor for the central North Island.
ENDS