“She epitomises all that’s good about the NHS” -the words of a grateful patient, who nominated the winner of the 2014 Best of Health Doctor of the Year.

The Doctor of the Year, sponsored by Synergy Dental, is for the GP, family doctor, hospital doctor, surgeon, registrar or consultant, from the NHS or private sector, who goes above and beyond the call of duty to provide the best service for all.

Dr Karen Seal, clinical psy­chologist and lead physician at the NHS Blackpool and North Lancashire Eating Disorder Service, based on Bloomfield Road, Blackpool, received two nominations.

The judges were impressed after reading how she had helped change the life of a patient – a mother in her sos who developed anorexia.

The patient said: “She’s an inspiration. Dr Seal cares for each of her patients. She stands beside them, not judging, but working tirelessly, offering her extensive knowledge and undoubted skill.

“She is professional, enthusiastic, dedicated, patient, reassuring, calm and compassionate. She never gives up on them. “She is always accessible by email or phone, which is so reassuring.”

The judges were particularly impressed with the way Dr Seal supported the families of patients. The second nomination said: “She has not only helped our family, she has helped many families across North Lancashire.”
Dr Seal said: “I did not expect this at all, but it is really nice. I’m touched someone has thought to nominate me.
“I could not do my job without the support of such an excellent team and myfamily, who are fantastic. “I hope this helps to raise the profile of the eating disorder service and the issue ofeating disorders, which can affect anybody of any age.”

Highly commended were: Dr Russell Thorpe, of Old Links Surgery, St Annes; Dr AJ Nigam, consultant surgeon in ear, nose and throat at Blackpool Victoria Hospital; Dr Dahyu Mistey, of south Shore Primary Centr