Andrew Whittaker and Keith Pearce have been recognised for their outstanding leadership and innovation in cardiac services, through the development of the Rapid Access to Valve Assessment (RAVA) pathway at Wythenshawe Hospital. Faced with dangerously long delays from diagnosis to treatment for severe valvular heart disease, they designed and implemented a low-cost, fully in-house referral system.

The results were transformative. The average number of appointments per patient dropped by 67%, time to treatment was shortened by approximately 109 days, and over 100 patients benefited in the first year alone. The pathway also delivered cost savings and improved equity of access across Greater Manchester.

Andrew’s additional clinical training and Keith’s deep expertise in echocardiography have been key to the pathway’s success. Their solution has now been selected by NHS England for national rollout—an extraordinary achievement that will benefit patients far beyond the region.

This recognition celebrates their tireless efforts to improve care, reduce delays, and put patients first through smart, scalable innovation.

Pictured is Andrew Whittaker and Professor Keith Pearce who were presented the award by trustee Dr Sanjay Sastry and Dr Niall Campbell Chair of Trustees at NW Hearts Charity.