Dr Thomas said: "It has been a privilege to work for the Information Authority for the past four years during which we have completed the delivery of many important projects and promoted major developments in health informatics right across the NHS. “Now that the implementation of the national review of the Information Authority is well underway and, now that I am happy that proper arrangements are in place for staff management and business continuity, I believe that it is the right time for me to hand over the reins as a natural next phase in managing the transition." Dr Thomas relinquished the post at the end of October and has not immediately taken up another position within the NHS. Professor Alastair Bellingham, chair of the NHSIA board, said of Dr Thomas: “Since being appointed as Chief Executive in 2001 Gwyn has built the Authority into an organisation that has made a significant contribution to improved patient care, leading the NHSIA during its most productive period when it has delivered a number of high profile national projects and services." The NHSIA is to be wound up in April 2005, as per the recommendations of May’s NHS Arms Length Bodies Review. Its remit will divided between the National Programme for IT and the new Information Centre for Health and Social Care.
Gwyn Thomas (right) has stepped down as chief executive of the NHS Information Authority (NHSIA) after over four years in the post, E-Health Insider has learned. Deputy chief executive Jeff Smith has taken over as acting chief executive of the authority.
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