Hywel Dda Health Board’s new Chief Executive does his 'induction'

Hywel Dda University Health Board’s new Chief Executive got to know the organisation and its staff a little better as he took part in an Induction Day with fellow new starters on Monday 5 January.
Steve Moore was recently appointed to the post following a career largely based within the NHS, much of it in rural areas. He experience includes an appointment as Chief Executive of the both Cornwall and Devon Primary Care Trust clusters, and Consulting Director for Health and Social Care Policy for ICF International.
On his first day in post, Mr Moore and all other induction attendees had an opportunity to learn more about the NHS in Wales; the structure and useful internal processes in the UHB; as well as specialist sessions on issues such as patient experience, practical basic emergency first aid and the Welsh language.
“I was fortunate to meet some fellow new starters yesterday, which was a great opportunity as they will take up posts in various locations across the University Health Board in a number of different professions and I hope to stay in touch with them,” said Mr Moore.
“It will take me a little longer to get round our entire 10,000 staff and geographical area – but I do have and look forward to visits to our wards and community services scheduled in the coming weeks.”
Mr Moore paid tribute to local NHS staff and stressed his intention to work closely with them as well as with patients, the general public and stakeholders, in a welcome bulletin to staff.
“The NHS is built by the staff who deliver it for people who need help and I believe it is my job, and that of the Board, to support the front line to be as good as it can be for our patients,” he said.
“To do this, we need strong and effective clinical engagement - allowing our clinicians to drive and develop the services that they deliver every day. We also need a strong and honest relationship with the public. There are challenges that we need to share with them – our current financial position is testament to that – as our patients are our most important stakeholders in the NHS.
“We cannot ignore changes in clinical practice, or the effect of an ageing population, and must look at new and creative ways of working if we are to protect our ability to deliver great care. I understand the importance of delivering as much care locally as it is safe to do so, having worked in rural counties for much of my NHS career. I am delighted to be here in Wales – such a beautiful country – and I’m looking forward to getting to know it and the people better.”