Former West Midlands Ambulance Service doctor recognised in New Years Honours List after 30 years of service
A former West Midlands Ambulance Service doctor who helped develop the ambulance service nationally over the last 30 years has been recognised in the King’s New Years Honour’s List.
Dr Alison Walker has been awarded the King’s Ambulance Medal, recognising her dedication and distinguished service to the ambulance sector.
She started working with West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) in 2010 as its interim Medical Director before taking the position on a permanent basis between 2019 and 2024.
Dr Walker said: “I am absolutely delighted with the award, if slightly taken aback that I have been nominated when so many people in the ambulance service work so hard, day in day out.
“I still love treating patients and seeing that, as a team, the difference we can make to patient’s lives on what is probably the worst day of their life.
"Equally, I am also incredibly proud of the work I have done with colleagues behind the scenes developing the paramedic profession and know that our work has helped to save countless lives.”
WMAS Chief Executive, Anthony Marsh, added: “I have known Alison for many years and in that time watched how her contribution to the Trust has made a remarkable impact to the care we give our patients.
“Alison is a hugely well-respected clinical leader in our country and I am incredibly proud to hear of her recognition for the years of hard work.”
The Trust’s successor as Medical Director, Dr Richard Steyn, said: “I have worked with Alison over many years and the time, energy and drive that she has shown is second to none.
"There is no question that her work has saved lives both as a clinician but also in the way that she has developed ambulance services nationally and the paramedic profession in particular. This award is richly deserved.”
