Introducing new Medical Director for NHS Western Isles

NHS Western Isles is thrilled to welcome Dr Sara Else, who is due to start in the role of Medical Director on Monday 2nd June.

Dr Else is taking over from Dr Francis McAuley who retired in February 2025 after five years in the role.

Having worked in NHS Forth Valley for 11 years as a Consultant Rheumatologist before combining her clinical role with the role of Associate Medical Director for Scheduled Care, Dr Else will bring a diverse range of knowledge and experience to her new role here in the Western Isles.

Speaking of her most recent role, Dr Else said: “Within this role, I’ve had the opportunity to work with amazing colleagues across the whole system to transform our models of care, such that we have the best performance of any mainland board in Scotland.

“I’ve also been involved in chairing the Area Drugs and Therapeutics Committee and prior to this role I spent three years working as the Clinical Director for Ambulatory and Diagnostic Services.”

When asked about her career do date, Dr Else said: “One of the most rewarding things I’ve been involved with has been supporting health professionals from a variety of backgrounds to transition into advanced practice roles. I’m also a bit of a data nerd and love a good dashboard.”

Our beautiful scenery and sense of community are just a couple of the things that attracted Dr Else to the role of Medical Director for NHS Western Isles. She said: “Having grown up at the top of the Pennines, I’m really looking forward to being back in a rural, remote and beautiful environment and the can-do attitudes of the people who live in such places.

“I’m aiming to get out and about to meet as many people and teams as possible within my first few months, both in the hospital and across the islands.”

In her free time, Dr Else enjoys spending time with her husband and her twin boys outdoors, whether it’s walking, skiing or gardening. She added: “Living with three boys, the house is full of Lego and computer games. I say if you can’t beat ‘em…”

NHS Western Isles Chief Executive, Gordon Jamieson, said: “I am delighted to welcome Sara and her family to the Western Isles, and I look forward to the very positive strengths and contribution that Sara will bring.”