In the heart of the United Kingdom’s healthcare system stands a visionary whose unwavering dedication and leadership have transformed lives and inspired generations—Professor Sanjay Arya. A Consultant Cardiologist and the Executive Medical Director at Wrightington, Wigan & Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (WWL), Professor Arya is far more than a clinician. He is a changemaker, educator, innovator, and a beacon of hope, particularly for underrepresented communities in medicine.
Recently honoured with the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his exceptional services to Black and Minority Ethnic doctors and healthcare in North West England, Professor Sanjay Arya’s journey is one of perseverance, purpose, and profound impact.
Sanjay Arya: A Lifelong Commitment to Cardiac Excellence
At the core of Professor Sanjay Arya’s clinical mission is the unwavering delivery of high-quality, evidence-based, and patient-focused cardiac services. His expertise spans coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, syncope, palpitations, and complex cardiac assessments, especially for professional athletes and pre-operative patients.
Under his leadership, WWL has seen monumental advances in cardiovascular care, including the establishment of the state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheter Lab in Wigan. This facility has revolutionized local cardiac services, drastically reducing wait times and improving patient outcomes. His proactive approach ensures that patients receive not only timely interventions but also compassionate, comprehensive care that aligns with the latest research and best practices.
Medical Leadership that Drives Change
As the Executive Medical Director of WWL, Professor Sanjay Arya provides strategic leadership to the medical workforce and is instrumental in shaping the Trust’s clinical vision. With a steadfast commitment to delivering clinically safe and financially sustainable healthcare, he leads from the front with integrity and foresight.
Professor Arya’s responsibilities go beyond administration. As the Caldicott Guardian and Responsible Officer, he champions patient data confidentiality, regulatory compliance, and professional accountability—cornerstones of ethical medical practice. His voice resonates in critical boardroom decisions, regional cardiac networks, and national forums, always prioritizing patient care and equity.
His visionary leadership was nationally recognized when WWL was selected as a 7-day service pilot site by NHS Medical Director Sir Bruce Keogh. Under Professor Arya’s guidance, the initiative not only optimized weekend medical services but also significantly reduced weekend mortality rates, setting a new benchmark for other trusts across the country.
Sanjay Arya: A Champion of Medical Education and Mentorship
A true academic at heart, Professor Sanjay Arya has dedicated decades to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals. As a former Foundation Programme Director for seven years, he played a pivotal role in mentoring junior doctors during their most formative years.
Today, he continues to serve as an Examiner for the Royal College of Physicians (UK) and Manchester Medical School, ensuring academic rigour and clinical excellence in assessments. His academic footprint includes his roles as a Professor at Bolton University, and an Honorary Senior Lecturer at both Edge Hill University and the University of Liverpool.
His commitment to international medical collaboration is equally inspiring. Working closely with Edge Hill University, he helped establish sustainable recruitment and training pathways for overseas doctors—an initiative that strengthens global medical networks and enhances healthcare delivery both locally and internationally.
Recognised for Equity, Inclusion, and Innovation
Professor Arya’s work embodies the values of diversity and inclusion. His tireless advocacy for Black and Minority Ethnic (BAME) doctors has paved the way for a more inclusive healthcare environment. His OBE honour, announced in the 2024 New Year Honours List, is a testament to the lasting impact he has made.
Speaking about the honour, he humbly remarked,
“I am overwhelmed and deeply honoured to receive this recognition. This award is a reflection of the incredible efforts of my colleagues, the staff at WWL and the community we serve. I share this honour with them and my family, whose unwavering support has been my strength.”
Leaders from academia have echoed this sentiment. Clare Austin, Pro Vice-Chancellor at Edge Hill University, stated:
“Sanjay’s commitment to excellence in healthcare and his advocacy for equality, diversity and inclusion have had a real impact in our region and beyond.”
And Vice-Chancellor Dr John Cater remarked:
“His recognition is richly deserved and serves as an inspiration to our students and staff alike.”
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