Patricia Miller OBE who has been the Chief Executive Officer at NHS Dorset since its inception in February 2022 has announced she will be leaving the organisation at the end of the month. 

In a message to staff and partners Patricia emphasised her pride in the achievements of her team and thanked them for their hard work, commitment and loyalty.   

In a career that has spanned more than 40 years in the NHS, Patricia has remained passionate about improving the lives of patients and staff in ways that matter to them. 

Patricia said: 

“It has been a privilege to serve the NHS and people of Dorset and to have worked with many talented colleagues. Together we have tackled significant challenges and built a strong integrated health and care system. 

“In the three years since I joined NHS Dorset, we have seen real progress in delivering our ambitious aims to help people and communities in Dorset live healthy lives and thrive. 

Patricia has had a strong focus on addressing health inequalities, contributing to the wider social and economic development of communities and making sure the voices and experiences of people drive decision making. 

Speaking about Patricia’s decision, ICB Chair Rob Whiteman said: 

“I would like to thank Patricia for all her work as CEO of NHS Dorset. The Dorset health and care system has benefited hugely from her inspiring leadership.   

“Patricia has led Dorset ICB through some challenging times. Her determination and compelling vision has improved and transformed health and care across Dorset and put the organisation in a strong place to deliver the government’s 10-year plan for health. 

“On behalf of the Board, we wish Patricia all the best for the future and want to thank her for her outstanding service to the NHS and to the people and communities of Dorset.” 

ENDS 

Notes to editors 

  • Patricia Miller took up the role as Chief Executive Officer for NHS Dorset ICB in February 2022. Patricia joined the ICB from Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust where she served as Chief Executive for over eight years. 
  • Patricia is currently co-chair of the provider Chairs and CEOs network, and member of the NHS England’s Health Inequalities Oversight Group. Patricia is also a member by distinction of the Faculty of Public Health and has been a member of the NHS Assembly since its inception. 
  • Patricia was awarded an OBE in 2019 for services to the NHS and was named amongst the top 50 BAME figures who will exercise the most power and/or influence in the NHS and health policy in 2020. 
  • In June 2025 NHS England and ministers approved the clustering of BSW (Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire) ICB, Dorset ICB and Somerset ICB. 
  • Last week Rob Whiteman was announced as the appointed chair for the cluster following a robust recruitment process by NHS England. 
  • Arrangements for the appointment of a new cluster chief executive will be shared in due course.