In one of the service’s most pressured environments, Dr Gaurav Asal is known for leading with compassion which was recognised recently with a local presentation of his Chief Executive’s Commendation.

Dr Asal, Integrated Care Medical Lead, was presented with the Chief Executive’s Commendation for Demonstrating Kindness during a local presentation led by Emma Webber, Clinical Operations Manager for Integrated Care.

Gaurav, who has been part of the 111/999 EOC senior leadership team for the past four years, was unable to attend the Trust’s annual awards ceremony due to his clinical commitments and so the team were keen to make sure his impact was still recognised and celebrated on a local level.

Nominated by 111 Service Co-ordinator Tammy Fox, Gaurav was recognised for the consistent way he supports colleagues across our contact centres and emergency operations centres, all while being a practicing General Practitioner within a busy local GP Practice to provide evidence based and patient centred medical care. Echoed by others in the 111 team, Gaurav is involved in many initiatives including helping to facilitate learning for colleagues on topics including assessing and managing patients within the virtual care setting, as well as coaching and mentoring PaCCS auditors, and providing personalised support to clinicians working within the contact centres and emergency operating centres.

As Medical Lead for Integrated Care, Gaurav’s role spans strategy, systems and clinical oversight, yet colleagues say he never loses sight of the people behind the processes. Described as widely respected and deeply appreciated, Gaurav is often the person colleagues turn to for advice, reassurance or simply a listening ear.

Respected, trusted and consistently kind, Dr Gaurav Asal exemplifies the spirit of the Demonstrating Kindness commendation. Congratulations Gaurav.

In her nomination for Gaurav, Tammy said “What’s especially remarkable is the effort Gaurav goes to in making colleagues of all skill sets feel valued. He ensures that everyone, regardless of their role or level, feels seen and appreciated for the work they do. Gaurav’s calm, supportive presence makes a real difference to those around him. Even if he hasn’t met someone personally, he always takes the time to message colleagues and thank them for their contributions. No matter how busy he is, Gaurav is always approachable.”