A Keele researcher who is also a practising GP has been named as a Fellow of the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) in recognition of his significant contribution to general practice.

Fellowship of the RCGP is described as the “ultimate honour and achievement” for GPs who make a significant contribution to health and welfare or the science and practice of medicine, and Keele’s Dr Faraz Mughal is the latest to join this esteemed rank.

Dr Mughal was nominated for his outstanding work and commitment to general practice and primary care research, which is currently focused on self-harm, suicide prevention, and young people’s mental health and wellbeing.

Dr Mughal said: “I am delighted to have been nominated and awarded fellowship of the RCGP. I chose to be a GP in medical school after observing the complexity and variety of problems patients consult their GP for. It is a privilege to be able to work with dedicated practice colleagues, especially highlighted in the current challenges of Covid-19.

“Being able to combine my clinical work with my research at Keele enables me to drive improvements in the quality of care we can provide for patients in general practice, particularly on mental health related problems. I want to thank all the people I have worked with and who have supported me over the years.”

Professor Amanda Howe, President of the RCGP, added: “Congratulations are due to Dr Faraz Mughal for achieving the distinction of fellowship of the Royal College of General Practitioners. A Fellow of the RCGP exemplifies its motto 'cum scientia caritas', science with compassion, and being awarded fellowship shows the esteem in which Faraz is held by his peers and the RCGP.”