A TAUNTON doctor has won the Doctor of the Year title in a national awards.

Organised by Cygnet Health Care, an independent provider of specialised mental health services for the NHS and local authorities, the Cygnet Annual Psychiatrists Conference and National Awards 2022 recognise excellence in the healthcare industry.

Dr Maya Kalaya, who works at Cygnet Hospital Taunton, in Orchard Portman, won her award for her exceptional clinical skills.

Presenting the award, Dr Dale Lawrence, responsible officer at Cygnet Health Care, said: “What is most notable is her amazing skill with regards to admission clerking.

"The standard is felt to be one of the highest standards within Cygnet Health Care.

"Dr Kalaya is dedicated to the entire organisation and recently volunteered to work at another site to support that service, and in doing so had to carry an exceptionally large workload.

“She has been very effective in terms of training and education. She recently developed a local training programme aimed at upskilling others and building their confidence. It was so effective that it is now being rolled out throughout the South West Cygnet services.

“Dr Kalaya also led the first quality improvement programme at Taunton and ensures not only the appropriate management of medication but that patient choice is preserved.”

On receiving the award, Dr Kalaya said: “I’m so pleased to have won the award and to hear the positive feedback from the staff at Cygnet Taunton.

"It’s a really caring place where I’ve been able to learn and develop skills over the last few years. I am surrounded by some of the most wonderful and compassionate people in Somerset.

"I am really grateful for the support I have had from my consultants, my fellow doctors and the managers. Without them I would not be able to thrive in the way I have as a psychiatrist.”

Dr Tony Romero, chief executive of Cygnet Health Care, said: “This accolade is testament to the hard work, commitment and dedication of Dr Kalaya. At Cygnet Health Care, we strive to provide the highest quality and standard of care and always put our service users at the heart of what we do. This is demonstrated impeccably by Dr Kalaya.”