Simon Ray

Simon Ray is the National Clinical Director for Heart Disease at NHS England (NHSE). He was appointed to this role in early 2024, succeeding Professor Nick Linker. Simon Ray is a consultant cardiologist at the Manchester Heart Institute and has a long-standing career in cardiology, having been involved in various leadership positions within the field.

Professional Background

• Consultant Cardiologist: Simon Ray has served as a consultant since 1995 at what is now Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.
• Academic Roles: He holds the position of Honorary Professor of Cardiology at the University of Manchester, which he has held since 2011.
• Leadership Positions: He has been the president of several organizations, including the British Society of Echocardiography and the British Heart Valve Society. He also served as the vice president for clinical standards of the British Cardiovascular Society and was a past president of that society.

Contributions to Healthcare

Simon Ray has made significant contributions to healthcare, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He co-developed and implemented the National Early Warning Score (NEWS2) across hospitals and care homes, which is crucial for monitoring deteriorating patients. He also led initiatives that established community assessment hubs for acute respiratory infections, helping to manage patient care effectively during peak demand periods.

Current Focus

In his role as National Clinical Director for Heart Disease, Simon Ray is expected to focus on improving cardiovascular services across England. His work includes advocating for better integration of care pathways and enhancing access to cardiology services through digital transformation and community-based initiatives.1234567