Global patient voice takes step forward as IAPO names new CEO

The Governing Board of the International Alliance of Patients’ Organizations (IAPO) has announced the appointment of Mr Kawaldip Sehmi as the new Chief Executive Officer of IAPO.  

Mr Sehmi joins the organization with extensive public health experience at national and international level and starts his leadership role with immediate effect.

Mr Sehmi’s appointment ushers in a new chapter in the history of the patient voice. IAPO has been a strong advocate for patients across the globe and this appointment will build on previous achievements such as the biennial Global Patients Congress and the Declaration of Patient-Centred Healthcare.

IAPO will increasingly focus on the rights of patients and how this relates to universal health coverage going forward. IAPO thanks Stephen McMahon, Interim Chief Executive Officer, for overseeing the organization since December 2014.

 

Kin-Ping Tsang, IAPO Chair, said,

‘On behalf of the Governing Board, I am delighted to introduce Mr Kawaldip Sehmi as the new Chief Executive Officer of IAPO. Mr Sehmi brings a wealth of experience in international public health to the role and he is perfectly placed to lead IAPO into a new chapter of growth. IAPO will continue to represent patients across the globe; we look forward to Mr Sehmi’s leadership as we promote patient-centred healthcare for all.’

Mr Sehmi said,

‘I am extremely proud to be joining IAPO. This organization has been an important part in the history of the global patient movement and continues to be a leading voice for patient-centred healthcare. I look forward to advancing the rights of patients further, building towards universal health coverage and working with our passionate members, partners, governing board and staff to improve the lives of patients around the world.’

Mr Sehmi's background

Mr Sehmi previously held the position of CEO at Richmond Psychosocial Foundation International and worked as Managing Director of Coram Children’s Legal Centre. He has European and international public health experience as Director of the Global Health Inequalities Programme and as Chairman of the European Network of Quitlines.

Mr Sehmi's qualifications include an MSc in the Public Health International Programme from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, an MBA in Business Administration from the London Business School and Open University, and an LLB (Hons) from the London College of Law.

 

 

NOTES TO EDITORS

The International Alliance of Patients’ Organizations (IAPO) is a unique global alliance representing patients of all nations across all disease areas. We work to promote patient-centred healthcare around the world. With over 240 members, IAPO represents an estimated 365 million patients.

Find out more at www.iapo.org.uk or contact Ian Ford, IAPO Communications Officer, at ian@iapo.org.uk or +44 20 7250 8280.