PPG appoints medical director for Gillingham site

Practice Plus Group (PPG) has appointed Richard Dickson-Lowe as medical director at its surgical centre in Gillingham.

A general and colorectal surgeon with a focus on minimally invasive techniques Dickson-Lowe (pictured) also serves as clinical lead for general and colorectal surgery at Medway Maritime NHS Foundation Trust. He previously worked at the Gillingham site when it operated as the Will Adams Treatment Centre.

He said: ‘It’s a fantastic facility with a highly skilled clinical team, and I’m looking forward to helping expand the services we provide so more patients can access care locally.’

The appointment comes alongside investment in laparoscopic equipment at the centre, enabling keyhole procedures to be carried out onsite for the first time. Dickson-Lowe said introducing laparoscopic surgery would be an early priority, initially focused on hernia repair.

‘Keyhole techniques are less invasive and can support faster recovery for patients, making them particularly well suited to day-case surgery. It also means patients in Medway and surrounding areas can access treatment closer to home rather than travelling to other hospitals.’

PPG said the role will include expanding the centre’s clinical offering, with plans to develop services across gynaecology, urology and orthopaedics.

‘By developing clear pathways for both NHS and privately funded patients, we can increase overall capacity while ensuring people are able to access the treatment they need more quickly,’ said Dickson-Lowe.

PPG CEO Ross Dowsett said: ‘By bringing in additional experienced clinicians with specialist skills, we can continue to develop the range of treatments available to patients while opening up more pathways to access care.’