Dr Simon Paul

I graduated from University College London and completed my junior medical training around London. During this time, I also completed a Bachelors degree in Osteopathy. I obtained Membership of the Royal College of Physicians in 1998 and was elected a Fellow in 2012.

I rotated through a number of specialist units as part of my speciality training with the RAF including Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospitals, and the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore and St George’s Hospital. During this time, I contributed to the development of specialist guidance on the management of Ankylosing Spondylitis and published on the heritability of sporting ability which attracted national media interest. I served in the RAF both in the UK and overseas. I also hold postgraduate qualifications in Sports medicine and Aviation medicine.

I was appointed a RAF Consultant at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre Headley Court in 2006 and was Lead Consultant variously responsible for back pain, neurological rehabilitation, and complex medical rehabilitation during my tenure. I also provided a general rheumatology and rehabilitation service which included clinical work overseas. A large component of my practice involved returning patients to their best physical, mental and psychosocial state following illness and injury to allow a speedy return to work. I helped develop MOD wide policy on neck pain rehabilitation and chronic pain management. I have held honorary Consultant Rheumatologist posts at Guy’s, St Thomas’ and Kingston Hospitals.

I have been regularly involved in postgraduate teaching and the supervision of doctors in training. I have delivered presentations in the UK and overseas at specialist meetings. I have helped organise and examine for the Faculty of Occupational Medicine Diploma in Disability Assessment clinical examinations since 2000.

When I left the RAF, I studied Law part time, graduating with a Distinction and won the Dean’s prize. At law school, I developed an interest in alternative dispute resolution and helped judge national law school competitions. I have an interest in medicolegal issues.

I have published original work in peer reviewed journals and also chapters in textbooks, both medical and legal.