Professor Mahendra Patel OBE, a distinguished academic pharmacist with strong ties to the University of Bradford, became the first pharmacist in England to receive the prestigious Honorary Fellowship from the Royal College of General Practitioners. This is the highest honour the RCGP bestows on a non-GP. It recognises Professor Patel’s significant contributions to healthcare, particularly in advancing collaboration between pharmacy and general practice, promoting inclusive research and shaping national health policy.
Professor Patel’s career began as a community pharmacist. Over time, his impact has grown to span academia, policy and clinical practice. He serves as the founding Director of the Centre for Research Equity at the University of Oxford’s Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences. He also holds leadership positions across the NHS and national healthcare bodies. These include membership in England’s Pharmacy Professional Leadership Advisory Board and serving as Professional Advisor to the Chief Pharmaceutical Officer at NHS England. His work has influenced healthcare frameworks within the UK and internationally.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Professor Patel played an important role in improving diversity in clinical trial recruitment. He worked to ensure underrepresented communities were included in vital research and helped shape national research frameworks through partnerships with UK governments to promote equitable healthcare access. A former board member and treasurer of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, he has long championed collaboration across healthcare professions.
At the inaugural RCGP Awards Ceremony, the Honorary Fellowship was presented to Professor Patel. In his acceptance speech, he said the award was a “real ‘pinch-me’ moment”. He shared, “As the first pharmacist in England and only the second across the UK to receive this Fellowship, I accept it not just as a personal honour but as a powerful and symbolic milestone for the professions of pharmacy and general practice.” He also spoke about the need for unity in healthcare, stating, “The future of healthcare must be one of collaboration. Let’s use moments like this to build momentum grounded in trust, shared purpose and ambition for the communities we serve.”
Although based at Oxford, Professor Patel maintains close links with the University of Bradford. He collaborates on projects that widen access to healthcare education and improve diversity in research participation. His mentorship of healthcare professionals from underrepresented backgrounds supports the university’s mission to drive inclusive innovation. Professor Shirley Congdon, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bradford, said, “We are incredibly proud of Professor Patel’s achievements. His commitment to tackling health inequalities and building inclusive healthcare systems is an inspiration to our students, staff and the wider sector. This award is a testament to the strength of our research and professional community.”
The University of Bradford is widely known for its commitment to socially inclusive healthcare education and research. Its mission to make knowledge work for the benefit of society is reflected in its partnerships with leaders like Professor Patel and its focus on applied research that transforms lives.
For students inspired by Professor Patel’s achievements, the University of Bradford offers opportunities through Clearing 2025. This runs from 05 July–20 October and is open to those with A-level, T-level or equivalent qualifications, as well as mature students. The university provides a Clearing Community Pass with webinars, a dedicated phone line and SMS or email updates. Clearing services include personalised support and access to healthcare and research-focused courses.
