Dr Satheesh Mathew

I retired from clinical practice in July 2020, after a career dedicated to improving the welfare of doctors and patients. Throughout my journey, I have held various NHS management roles, including Medical Director, Clinical Director, and Clinical Lead. In every position, I prioritised championing the interests of my colleagues, even when it meant challenging the status quo.

As a Specialist Advisor with the Care Quality Commission, I worked to uphold quality standards across healthcare settings. At Barts Health NHS Trust, particularly Newham University Hospital, I served as Chair of the Medical Staff Committee and Deputy Chair of the Local Negotiating Committee. My involvement with the British Medical Association includes roles such as UK Consultants Committee member and Executive Committee member of the Stratford Division. At the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, I contributed as an Examiner, Examination Board member, College Tutor, and adviser on consultant appointments.

A longstanding advocate for equity and inclusion, I established the first BME network at my trust 25 years ago, creating a platform to support underrepresented groups. As National Vice President of BAPIO, I led initiatives on high-profile cases, including the HSMP, RCGP differential pass rate, and Bawa-Garba cases. I remain passionate about fostering a workplace free from discrimination and supporting doctors facing challenges.

As co-founder of Medical Defence Shield, I helped create the UK’s first combined medical defence and trade union organisation. BAPIO often received calls for help from doctors facing employment and defence issues, but the lack of formalised support inspired Dr Ramesh Mehta and me to establish MDS. This milestone was a dream come true, ensuring comprehensive support for BME doctors historically underserved by traditional organisations.

Outside work, I enjoy reading, travelling, and tackling DIY projects. It is a privilege to continue supporting medical professionals through MDS.