Professor Sir Stephen Powis, national medical director of NHS England, has announced his decision to step down this summer, following seven years in this role.

Having notified Amanda Pritchard of his decision to stand down in January, Professor Powis will continue in his post until early July and continue in his work to improve stroke care, inquiry commitments, as well as focussing on the medical training review for postgraduate doctors.

Professor Powis is the most senior doctor within NHS England, and played a key role in England’s pandemic response, from leading the health service to advising the public on dozens of government COVID briefings. He witnessed the first ever COVID vaccine to be delivered and led several national reviews. Before this, he spent 12years as the medical director at the Royal Free NHS Trust.

Responsible for the development and implementation of national cardiovascular, respiratory and stroke programmes, he also led the creation of the first national patient strategy, and the successful rollout of medical examiners.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS national medical director said: “It has been an immense privilege to serve as national medical director for the NHS and I am incredibly grateful to have been supported by amazing colleagues working across the NHS to boost the experiences of patients.

Responsible for the development and implementation of national cardiovascular, respiratory and stroke programmes, he also led the creation of the first national patient strategy, and the successful rollout of medical examiners.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS national medical director said: “It has been an immense privilege to serve as national medical director for the NHS and I am incredibly grateful to have been supported by amazing colleagues working across the NHS to boost the experiences of patients.