The taskforce is pleased to welcome Professor Neil Merrett to the role of Chair. Professor Merrett is the Program Director of Surgery at South Western Sydney Local Health District and Foundation Professor of Surgery at Western Sydney University and the University of NSW.
As a member of the taskforce for more than 10 years, Professor Merrett has been instrumental in:
- developing value-based surgery and enhanced recovery after surgery principles
- surgical optimisation efforts
- state-level policy for planned and emergency surgery.
Professor Merrett is also an active member of the Surgery Community of Practice and Clinical Council, contributing to the health system’s COVID-19 response and recovery efforts.
The taskforce thanks and farewells Professor Arthur Richardson for his leadership as Chair over the past seven years, and in the Surgery Community of Practice since 2020.
Professor Richardson’s achievements include:
- driving significant changes in surgical services design
- developing innovative models of care
- leading implementation of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program in Australia.
Professor Richardson will continue to advocate for quality, safety, and professionalism in surgical care. His dedication and sense of humour will be missed by the network.
Professor Neil Merrett
Professor Arthur Richardson
Learn more or contact the Surgical Services Taskforce.