Dr. Fawad Azam is a PGPA Board Member and Chair of the PGPA Strategy Group, where he leads strategic planning and fosters innovation to shape the long-term future of the organisation. A passionate advocate for forward-thinking approaches in general practice, Fawad brings a creative, analytical mindset to his leadership role, guiding PGPA’s response to evolving healthcare challenges across Calderdale.
Fawad has been involved with PGPA since the beginning, initially stepping up as a volunteer on the founding steering group which was not long after qualifying and becoming a GP Partner. What began as a bold step into the unknown has grown into a deep, ongoing commitment to transforming primary care. His motivation then, as now, was rooted in the belief that general practice could be stronger, smarter, and more sustainable through collaboration and innovation.
Born in Halifax, Fawad returned home after completing his medical degree at Manchester University followed by GP training. He joined Stainland Road Medical Centre as a Partner, taking on the role knowing the practice had challenges to overcome. He embraced those early hurdles with optimism and drive with support from a great team, helping lead positive changes that improved the practice’s efficiency and patient care. One success was his redesign of the document management process, a model that has since been adopted not only across Calderdale but also in neighbouring Wakefield.
As a Board Member, Fawad draws on his diverse experience as a practicing GP, a PCN Clinical Director, and a clinician in PGPA’s Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) Hubs and Sunday/Bank Holiday Hubs. This broad involvement allows him to contribute meaningfully across multiple levels of the healthcare system. He remains focused on developing practical solutions that support both patients and practices, believing PGPA is uniquely positioned to serve as the bridge between individual practices, PCNs, Integrated Neighbourhood Teams and the wider NHS system.
Fawad says “”At PGPA, everything we do is guided by the impact it will have on GP practices, PCNs, and the wider healthcare system. We are clear in our purpose: to support individual practices and PCNs with capacity, workforce, and service delivery while respecting their autonomy. By acting as a vital link between practices and the Integrated Neighbourhood Teams, we help deliver consistent, high-quality care across Calderdale.”
Fawad is particularly driven by the opportunity to lead positive change, improve local services, and see meaningful results on the ground. His leadership style blends strategic thinking with a collaborative and respectful approach, bringing together the strengths of his fellow Board Members to create shared success.
Outside of work, Fawad is a keen home cook with a passion for pizza-making, proudly known at home for “Daddy’s famous pizza” and awarded “Star Baker” at a PCN coffee morning. He stays grounded through humour, curiosity, and his love of connecting with people, always striving to give back to the community he grew up in and continues to serve.