IHPN hires director of communications

The Independent Healthcare Providers Network (IHPN) has appointed Cara McDonagh as its first director of communications.

The move comes amid significant expansion of the trade body, which now includes almost 120 organisations among its members.

IHPN said the McDonagh (pictured) would build on this growth, supporting its plans to increase communications activity and strengthen its media presence as independent providers increasingly take on a greater role in the UK healthcare system.

McDonagh, who has more than 20 years of experience in healthcare communications, will join from the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists, where she is director of communications and people. Previously, she has held senior roles at NHS England and the NHS Confederation.

‘Cara is a fantastic addition to the IHPN team and her valuable insight and experience will be a real asset to our work in promoting the sector’s increasingly important contribution to UK healthcare,’ said IHPN CEO David Hare. ‘I look forward to working with Cara to ensure IHPN continues to be the strongest possible advocate for our members so that the safe, high quality and innovative services delivered by independent healthcare providers can be accessed by as many people as possible.’

McDonagh added: ‘I’m delighted to be joining IHPN at such a pivotal time for the independent healthcare sector. With growing demand and an ever-greater role in supporting the NHS, there’s a real opportunity to tell a stronger story about the contribution IHPN members make to the UK’s health system. I’m excited to build on the excellent work already underway and to help amplify the voice of this diverse and dynamic sector.’