Dr Adrian Tookman awarded Honorary Degree at Middlesex University London

Palliative Care Physician and Medical Director of the Marie Curie Hospice in Hampstead, Dr Adrian Tookman has been awarded an Honorary Degree at Middlesex University London’s graduation ceremony.

Palliative Medicine was recognised by the Royal College of Physicians as a speciality in 1985 and Adrian was one of the ‘first wave specialists’ in this field.  Dr Tookman continues to lead the unit and has a national role as Clinical Director of Marie Curie, a national end of life care charity.

Dr Adrian Tookman said: “I have a busy clinical practice and regularly teach nationally and locally. I enjoy clinical work because I continually learn from my patients and their families. This enables me to share this learning with students who come to the Hospice from Middlesex University. To receive an Honorary Degree from Middlesex University is a great honour for me.”

Dr Tookman is also the Lead Field Editor for the pain, palliative and supportive care group for the Cochrane systematic review group. This research group is internationally recognised as producing reviews that summarise the best available evidence generated through research to inform decisions about health.

He has led clinical innovations that include developing a large outpatient service in a day therapy unit in the Hospice with both medical and nurse led clinics. There is a nationally recognised evidence-based rehabilitation and survivorship practice in the Hospice. This service is for people with are living with cancer and also for those with advanced progressive non cancer conditions. He has authored over 100 publications.

Professor Tim Blackman, Vice-Chancellor of Middlesex University, said: “By awarding an Honorary Degree to outstanding people such as Dr Adrian Tookman the University is recognising achievement at the highest level as well as dedication to public duty and making a difference to others’ lives.

“I am delighted to be part of today’s ceremony and to congratulate each of our honorary graduates on their incredible achievements.

“Graduation is not only an opportunity to celebrate the wonderful achievements of our graduands but also to look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead because a Middlesex University degree opens up a world of possibilities.”