Woman doctor wins top award

A Maltese family doctor has won a prestigious award in the UK honouring those who promote and encourage the progress of women beyond their everyday job.

Clare Gerada, who has been working as a doctor in the UK for 28 years, won the Medicine and Healthcare category for the 2011 Women in the City Woman of Achievement Award, which is divided in seven categories.

She has now been entered in the overall category, which pitches all the section winners against each other. Results will be announced at the end of this month.

Dr Gerada said she was “absolutely delighted” to be nominated for the honour.

“As the first female chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners for more than 50 years, and the chair of the RCGP’s first predominantly female leadership team, I am truly honoured to be involved in this event recognising the massive achievements made in all sectors by women,” she said.

The award was important as it not only recognised her work but also that of her colleagues, friends and family who over the years have helped her get to where she is, she stressed.

“It is especially important because this is the first time that the medical profession has been recognised by these honours,” she said.

“My message to Maltese women is to always work hard, and always do your best. It is possible to combine a successful career with family commitments.”

Fiona Cornish, President-elect of the Medical Women’s Federation, who presented Dr Gerada with the award, described her as “a superb ambassador for women”.