A new medical director has been recruited by NHS Western Isles
Dr Sara Else who is due to start in the role on Monday take over from Dr Francis
McAuley who retired in February after five years in the post.
She worked in NHS Forth Valley for 11 years as a consultant rheumatologist before
combining her clinical role with the role of associate medical director for scheduled
care.
She has also spent three years working as clinical director for ambulatory and diagnostic
services.
Dr Else said: “Within this role, I’ve had the opportunity to work with amazing colleagues
across the whole system to transform our models of care, such that we have the best
performance of any mainland board in Scotland.”
She added: “One of the most rewarding things I’ve been involved with has been supporting
health professionals from a variety of backgrounds to transition into advanced practice
roles. I’m also a bit of a data nerd and love a good dashboard.”
“Having grown up at the top of the Pennines, I’m really looking forward to being
back in a rural, remote and beautiful environment and the can-do attitudes of the
people who live in such places.
“I’m aiming to get out and about to meet as many people and teams as possible within
my first few months, both in the hospital and across the islands.”
Dr Else is married with three boys.
NHS Western Isles Chief Executive, Gordon Jamieson, said: “I am delighted to welcome
Sara and her family to the Western Isles, and I look forward to the very positive
strengths and contribution that Sara will bring.”
New medical director for NHS Western Isles
28 May 2025