(DH) New National Director for NHS Flu Resilience appointed

Ian Dalton has been appointed the new National Director for NHS Flu Resilience at the Department of Health, Health Secretary Alan Johnson announced today.

Mr Dalton, currently Chief Executive of NHS North East, will take up this newly created position with immediate effect, reporting to NHS Chief Executive David Nicholson.

The establishment of this new role follows the recent Swine Flu outbreak. Mr Dalton will be responsible for ensuring that all NHS organisations in England build on the robust planning that is already in place to deal with a flu pandemic, that NHS front line organisations are supplied with adequate equipment and drugs, and leading on appropriate vaccination programs.

Health Secretary Alan Johnson said:

"We have been preparing for the possibility of a pandemic for a number of years and the World Health Organisation says we are among the most prepared countries in the world.

"We already have robust arrangements in place that are continuing to ensure we are well-placed to deal with Swine Flu. The appointment of Ian Dalton will support the vital operational side of our plans by ensuring every NHS organisation in England is in the best possible position to protect the population.

"Ian Dalton is highly respected in the NHS and brings a wealth of skills and experience to this challenging role. I am extremely pleased to be welcoming him to the Department."

NHS Chief Executive David Nicholson said:
"The NHS has done a good job so far handling the swine flu challenge and we have clear plans in place for responding to future developments. Ian's many years of senior management experience mean he is well placed to ensure the NHS is prepared and can continue to protect and care for people."

Ian Dalton said:

"Preparing for and dealing with the threat of pandemic flu is extremely important. The NHS is well placed to deal with such an eventuality and I am looking forward to working with colleagues throughout England to ensure the NHS continues to respond appropriately to any developing
situation."

Mr Dalton will remain substantive in his current post as Chief Executive for NHS North East and will return to this role in due course. David Stout, currently Director of Finance and Communications, will be appointed as Acting Chief Executive for NHS North East.