Allan Burns CBE to step down as NHS Fife chairman

Allan Burns chairman of NHS Fife has announced his intention to stand down.

He paid tribute to the organisation and its staff saying: “NHS Fife strives to deliver the highest quality care for the people of Fife. That is what matters most and I thank all of our staff for their unstinting dedication and professionalism. It has been a privilege and an honour to serve alongside caring and committed staff in an organisation that does vital work for Fife’s communities.”

During his tenure as chairman Mr Burns has been instrumental in successfully establishing the new Integrated Joint Board for delivery of health and social care services with other agencies. Mr Burns said: “A new era of significant change in healthcare delivery is just beginning and I believe NHS Fife would be best served by a continuity of commitment from a chairman that stretches beyond the remainder of my term. I leave NHS Fife in the very capable hands of chief executive Paul Hawkins and his team.”

Paul Hawkins, chief executive, said: “On behalf of the Board I would like to thank Allan for the major contribution he has made to NHS Fife. He has given outstanding commitment to the Board and leaves behind a legacy of continuous improvement in patient care and delivery. We wish him well for the future.”

Shona Robison MSP, cabinet secretary for health, wellbeing and sport, added: “I would like to thank Allan for the considerable time and effort he has given to the Board during his term as chairman. I am grateful for his personal commitment and the leadership that he has shown in the role, and wish him all the best for the future.”

Mr Burns will remain in post till the end of the year to allow for the recruitment of a new chairman and a handover period.