Max Thomas, Clinical Scientist and Respiratory & Sleep Physiology Site Lead at University Hospitals Sussex, has been recognised with the Rising Star Award at the national Advancing Healthcare Awards.
The award celebrates healthcare professionals who have made outstanding contributions to service transformation, digital innovation, workforce development and professional leadership, while demonstrating a strong commitment to improving patient care through evidence-based practice, education and research.
Max was recognised for his work advancing respiratory and sleep physiology services at local, regional and national levels. The services assess, diagnose and treat people with breathing and sleep disorders. Through pathway redesign, workforce development, research and collaborative working, he has helped improve access to high-quality diagnostic services for patients while supporting the delivery of safe, effective and consistent care across the region.
His work has focused on creating more efficient patient pathways, championing innovation and strengthening collaboration between healthcare organisations to improve respiratory and sleep services.
Max said: “I am honoured to receive this award. While it recognises my individual contribution, it also reflects the support of colleagues and teams across UHSussex, the South East region and ARTP. Improving respiratory and sleep services is very much a collaborative effort, and I look forward to continuing this work to benefit patients and the profession.
“I am particularly proud that the award recognises the value of clinical scientists in leading improvement and innovation and highlights the excellent work taking place within UHSussex.”
Alongside his clinical role as service lead for Respiratory and Sleep Physiology at the Royal Sussex County Hospital and Princess Royal Hospital, Max also serves as NHS England South East Physiological Network Lead and contributes nationally through the Association for Respiratory Technology & Physiology (ARTP).
Looking ahead, Max is supporting further service development and pathway optimisation, including exploring innovative diagnostic approaches such as a digital sleep pathway pilot, which could help reduce waiting times and improve access to diagnostics for patients.
Max said: “Success has only been possible through the support of colleagues, mentors, friends and family, and by working closely with local teams, regional partners and national professional networks towards the shared goal of delivering better care for patients.
“I am particularly grateful to the mentors, managers and peers who have supported my development and provided opportunities to lead improvement initiatives throughout my career.
“I hope this recognition demonstrates that healthcare scientists can play a leading role in patient care, service improvement, innovation and professional leadership.”