Chapter and nurse

The good folk of medical affairs and nursing have gathered at the opulent Royal Horseguards Hotel for an intoxicating double – the PharmaTimes Medical & Scientific Awards (MSEA) and the Nursing Industry Excellence Awards (NIEA).

On a fine summer’s evening in London these vital, yet often unsung, professionals were transformed into the glitterati of our industry – representing their crucial part within the wider pharmaverse while underscoring their engagement with clinical trials, drug development and, above all, thousands of patients across the world.

It was clear from the increasing volume of the accumulated guests – both in sound and numbers – that this was a unique occasion, which participants were determined to relish.

Following a lavish dinner, hush soon descended as Owen O’Kane, himself a former NHS mental health clinical lead, psychotherapist and Sunday Times bestselling author, appeared to oversee the award presentations. This included various categories, plus two special NIEA awards.

Needless to say, celebrations were wild, as trophy winners traded nervous excitement with the blissful sunshine-dance of true recognition.

During the MSEA Awards the New Medical Science Liaison of the Year went to Novo Nordisk’s Dr Ana Cruz. This was followed by the Experienced Medical Scientific Liaison of the Year award – sponsored by Datapharm – which went to Novo Nordisk’s Dr Fethi Sadouki.

Meanwhile, the NIEA awards, Inizio’s Innovation Excellence Award was won by Natalie Bingham, Jade Mickelsen and Hollie Murphy from Lloydspharmacy Clinical Homecare.

In addition, Team Excellence of the Year Award – sponsored by IQVIA – was secured by Inizio’s Julie Ballard, Amanda Alexander, Vicci Spence and Kim Matthews.

The Overall Nurse of the Year went to Inizio’s Caroline McGlynn, who also received the Leadership Excellence Award.

She enthused: “It’s not just me winning this award – I’m lucky enough to work with a fabulous team that makes a difference in patients’ lives on a day-to-day basis. Having recognition for my nursing after such a long time in the industry is really special to me.”

The Overall Team of the Year went to Lloydspharmacy Clinical Homecare’s Natalie Bingham, Jade Mickelsen and Hollie Murphy – the team’s second win of the ceremony.

They said: “We are so happy to have achieved this award. It’s been a group effort, with a lot of hours of work. This achievement, as well as being surrounded by so many healthcare professionals who are all passionate about the same thing, reminds us why we do what we do.”