In memory: Paul Wallace

Paul originally began working with the HIN as Clinical Director for our alcohol programme. Much of Paul’s research portfolio was centred on the detection and management of alcohol misuse, generating more than 100 papers and book chapters on this topic. His work made particular contributions towards the development, assessment, and distribution of digital applications to reduce alcohol-related harm, being part of the vanguard for the use of digital technologies in this space.

Paul’s most recent role in the HIN began in 2017, when he was appointed Clinical Director for Digital. In the following years he brought his vast knowledge and ambition to bear primarily on DigitalHealth.London’s programmes. Initially Paul helped to assess fledgling technologies and provide advice on their evidence base; over time this focus on evidence grew into a dedicated programme which we now know as the DigitalHealth.London Evidence Generator Bootcamp. Dozens of the UK’s most promising digital health companies have directly benefitted from Paul’s support in navigating the complex yet crucial journey of evidence generation as part of the programme; countless more will indirectly benefit in years to come. Paul has left an enduring mark on Health Innovation Network and DigitalHealth.London, and his influence will live on in our work.

Paul began his professional career in primary care, practicing as a GP in north London for 20 years. He showed an early interest in clinical academia, being awarded a Medical Research Council (MRC) epidemiology training fellowship shortly after completing his specialist medical training. He went on to hold posts at the MRC, Imperial and University College London (UCL). He formerly served as National Primary Care Director for the NIHR Clinical Care Research Networks, as well as contributing to various national working groups on alcohol and acting as a senior advisor to charities Alcohol Concern and Drinkaware.

Paul’s varied and significant contributions to clinical practice and academia were recognised by a number of prestigious awards and appointments over the course of his career. He was Emeritus Professor of Primary Health Care at UCL and a Fellow of the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP), which awarded him its President’s Medal in 2013. Paul was also a Fellow of the Faculty of Public Health Medicine at the Royal College of Physicians.

In 2012, he co-founded the Foundation for Family Medicine in Palestine. Through the Foundation, Paul has played a major role in developing primary care infrastructure and provision in an area in desperate need.

Paul’s tireless determination to improve the world around him was exemplified by his enthusiasm for work in the final months of his life, helping to shape the latest Evidence Generator Bootcamp alongside playing an integral role in a number of academic projects.

Paul is survived by his wife Sabrina and his children.