Welcome to our new National Clinical Lead

We’re delighted to announce the recent appointment of Dr Hugh Bishop as our new National Clinical Lead (NCL) for the Scottish Cancer Network (SCN). Dr Bishop joins us on 1 September, bringing a wealth of experience to this pivotal role.

Working within our National Services Directorate (NSD) Dr Bishop will dedicate Thursdays and Fridays to his new responsibilities while continuing his work as a Consultant Paediatric Oncologist at NHS Grampian. His leadership will be crucial in advancing equity of access and upholding the highest standards of care across Oncology Services in Scotland.

Talking about his new role, Dr Bishop told us:

"In my role with the Managed Service Network for Children and Young People's Cancer (MSNCYPC), I had the privilege of working with Dr Noelle O'Rourke, the first Clinical Lead of the Scottish Cancer Network. Seeing the vital work both networks do to ensure equity of access and high standards of care across Scottish Oncology inspired me to apply for this position. I'm excited to be working more closely with SCN colleagues and the broader cancer community and to continue building on the SCN's excellent work."

Meet Dr Hugh Bishop

Dr Hugh Bishop, a distinguished graduate of the University of Aberdeen, began his medical journey in 1996. He gained invaluable experience through house jobs in Durham and Aberdeen, followed by general professional training across the North East and West of Scotland. In 2003, Dr Bishop discovered his passion for Paediatric Oncology, completing his specialty training in Bristol by 2011 and subsequently returning to Aberdeen as a Consultant.

With clinical interests spanning neuroblastoma, histiocytic disorders, and neuro-oncology, Dr Bishop is renowned for his expertise and dedication. His leadership roles are equally impressive. He has served as the national lead for cancer aftercare in the Managed Service Network for Children and Young People's Cancer and was the National Clinical Director of MSNCYPC from 2022 until now.

In NHS Grampian, Dr Bishop has held various leadership positions, including Unit Clinical Director for Child Health, Divisional Clinical Director for Clinical Support Services, and Integrated Family Portfolio Medical Director. He played a pivotal role in leading adult Haematology and Oncology services, collaborating closely with the North Cancer Alliance. Dr Bishop was also part of an inaugural group of cancer leaders across Scotland, working to support mutual aid for health services under pressure.

Currently, he actively contributes to the National SACT Program Board and the Genomics Working Group, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to advancing cancer care and medical services in Scotland.

Thank you to Dr Noelle O’Rourke for her exemplary leadership and significant contributions to the Scottish Cancer Network over the past three years. Her dedication has been instrumental in shaping our services and we wish her all the best in her future endeavors.