New chair for ICS Network announced
Dr McLean is chair of University Hospitals Derby and Burton and is the chair of Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board. Prior to becoming a non-executive, Kathy was executive medical director and chief operating officer at NHS Improvement, the organisation responsible for providing leadership and support to NHS trusts and foundation trusts.
Dr McLean, who was elected following a vote from ICS Network members, will be taking up the post at the end of March, when current chair, Dame Gill Morgan, will be stepping down from the role.
Dame Morgan said: "The ICS network is a vital support to ICS leaders, so I am delighted that Kathy will be taking over as chair next year. I have no doubt the network will be in safe hands and will continue to go from strength to strength."
The ICS Network is the only independent national network which brings together all 42 ICSs across England. It provides unique opportunities for ICS leaders to exchange ideas, share experiences and challenges, and influence the national agenda.
Sarah Walter, ICS Network director, said: “The ICS Network is important to help health and care leaders work together to share best practice, challenge each other and influence the national agenda. I’m looking forward to taking on this exciting new role and driving forward the integration agenda.”
“We are at an important phase of ICS development, as we are for the health and care sector more generally.
“Despite huge pressures, and against the ever-rising need for services, across systems we are seeing how integration and taking a joined up approach to care provision is making a difference to the people and populations we serve.
“I am delighted to welcome Kathy as incoming chair of the ICS Network board and know that her knowledge and experience will be a real asset to our members.
“I would also like to thank outgoing chair Dr Gill Morgan for the commitment, time and energy she has put in to building the network and establishing its presence as an influential force in the health and care sector.”
