Dr Neil Walden has been honoured for his work with patients in Cornwall.
The Guernsey-born medic was educated at Elizabeth College before leaving the island to study at university.
He retired from his position as a GP and Partner at Marion Surgery in Cornwall in 2019,
He has been a Non-Executive Director at NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board since 2022.
His MBE for his services to healthcare was announced in the New Years’ Honours List.
The NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly ICB said it reflects his work to champion the integration of health and care and development of neighbourhood health, which is an NHS priority designed to bring health care services ‘closer to home’ for patients.
The Chair of NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly ICB and NHS Devon ICB, John Govett said Dr Walden has been a passionate advocate for partnership working – bringing together NHS organisations, providers, patients, and the voluntary sector to co-design services that truly reflect what matters most to people.
His leadership had also been instrumental in developing integrated community health and care services, said Mr Govett.
“Neil’s commitment to listening to local people and working collaboratively has made a real difference to health and care services in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. This honour is a fitting tribute to his dedication and leadership over many years and reflects the impact he continues to have in shaping services that support us to shift health care from hospitals to communities and in driving neighbourhood system working over many years.”
Speaking about his MBE when the New Years’ Honours List was announced, Dr Walden was humble.
“It has been a privilege to work alongside so many passionate and committed colleagues and community partners to improve health and care for people in Cornwall,” he said.
“I am deeply humbled and proud to receive this honour in recognition of the work of many dedicated colleagues towards integrated health and care in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.”