My practice centres on early detection and patient-focused management of all aspects of gastrointestinal disease, including diarrhoea, constipation, weight loss, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding and anaemia.

My patient-centred and holistic approach to care is the result of my nationally recognised work on the patient experience. This includes new and more easily tolerated endoscopic investigations for disease of the stomach, oesophagus and large bowel. I was one of the first in the UK to use trans-nasal endoscopy and one of the first fully accredited practitioners of capsule endoscopy. I maintain a strong interest in non-invasive investigation and symptom-focused care, an approach I have used to establish local services for constipation/defecatory disorders and irritable bowel syndrome.

I qualified from Kings College, London in 1991, undertaking Specialist Gastroenterological training in Wessex. I trained in intestinal failure at the internationally renowned Institute of Human Nutrition at University Hospitals Southampton, obtaining a doctorate in nutrition and its role in modifying inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis). I also undertook advanced training in managing complex diseases of the bowel, and was appointed as a consultant in 2004 since which I have continued to lead the intestinal failure service at Portsmouth.  

In addition to my clinical research, I have undertaken extensive work into what patients’ look for and value in their healthcare, that has formed the basis of national guidelines, numerous publications, three books, both local and national courses and appointment as a National Clinical Advisor to NHS England.