Independent Doctors’ Federation appoints new president

Dr Neil Haughton, a London based private sector GP, has been appointed as president of the Independent Doctors’ Federation (IDF).

Haughton replaces Dr Brian O’Connor who has been in the role since 2016.

Haughton’s previous experience includes St Mary’s Hospital in London where he worked as a research fellow recruiting patients for the anti-HIV drugs trials, before becoming principal medical officer of the London Lighthouse Hospice.

He then joined the Portobello Clinic as a director in 2003 and is now one of its senior partners. He was elected onto the Council of the IDF in 2013 and has served as chair of the GP Committee and treasurer.

Commenting on his appointment, Haughton said: ‘We have adapted our role and services to the independent medical community and my priority for the next three years as president is to ensure the IDF remains relevant and vital to our doctors.’

‘The challenges facing the NHS will only increase,’ he continued, ‘and having a strong and cohesive private sector to supplement NHS care is essential. We must exceed the requirements set down by legislation, regulation, appraisal, revalidation and clinical governance.’