Graham Sharpe honoured 2009

Press Release 1 June 2009

Immediate Past President of the New Zealand Society of Anaesthetists honoured

Dr Graham Sharpe, Immediate Past President of the New Zealand Society of Anaesthetists has been made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List today.

“It is pleasing to have a highly regarded colleague recognised in this way for his contribution to anaesthesia over so many years. He is a shining example to the profession of medicine as a former President of the Society of Anaesthetists, working alongside obstetricians and midwives to deliver the best in patient obstetric care. Graham understands the value of team work and the importance of good communication among his peers and with women and babies under his care”, said Dr Warmington, President of the New Zealand Society of Anaesthetists.

“I respect him enormously and believe this public recognition of his service to anaesthesia is well deserved,” commented Dr Andrew Warmington.

Dr Sharpe’s sometimes outspoken stance on public health services and his sense of justice and fairness have at times made him the subject of intense media interest.

Dr Sharpe has contributed extensively to the practice of obstetric and paediatric anaesthesia in New Zealand for more than twenty five years. He has been active over many years in medico-legal reform, questioned publicly the validity of homeopathic and other alternative treatments, and has supported the drive for quality and safe care.

Dr Sharpe has successfully convened three scientific meetings in anaesthesia, two of which were international meetings. At heart Graham is a family man, and this is reflected in his personal commitment to maintaining a close circle of colleagues, friends and family.

“I wish to offer my personal congratulations to Graham and his family and hope this honour is in some small way, recognition for all the hours of out-of-hours and on-call work that go into delivering good and compassionate patient care,” stated Dr Warmington.

Dr Sharpe continues to work at both Wellington Hospital and in private practice.