Tributes have been paid to Professor Kailash Chand who has died at the age of 73.

Former Tameside doctor Prof Chand was a leading health expert and honorary Vice President of the British Medical Association. During his 35-year career in the NHS he had contributed to improving local practice standards and promoting public health at a local, regional and national level.

His son Dr Aseem Malhotra FRCP posted: "Can’t stop crying. Currently sitting on his bed. Completely and utterly heartbroken. The last of my immediate family was taken away from us much to early."

The British Medical Association said: "We are shocked and saddened to hear that Prof Kailash Chand OBE FRCGP has passed away.

"Vice President, former deputy council chair, GPC member and staunch defender of the NHS, his was a life of service to his patients and fellow doctors and all at the BMA will miss him deeply."

 

Labour MP Jeremy Corbyn said: "So sad at death of Dr Kailash Chand a true socialist who always defended our NHS. In his memory stop privatisation and create a National Care Service. RIP and thank you for a wonderful life of care."

Andrew Gwynn, Labour MP for Denton & Reddish said: "I’m so heartbroken to hear of the death of my good friend Kailash Chand. A Tameside GP, an NHS campaigner, a socialist and a friend.

"My thoughts and prayers are with Aseem and family. Rest in peace Kailash and may light perpetual shine upon him."

The British Association Of Physicians of Indian Origin said: "BAPIO is shocked to hear about the untimely demise of Kailash Chand OBE. We will miss his unparalleled wisdom, kindness and his #lessonsoflife. He passionately campaigned to make the NHS a better institution and been one of the most inspirational medical leaders of our time. RIP."

Whilst he was keen to share his thoughts on policies at a national level he will in the North West and Lancashire be remembered for his contribution to local communities. It was for his work with grassroot communities that he was honoured with a Fusion Public Service Award in 2011.

Kailash Chand was the first Asian honorary vice president of the BMA and Chair of Healthwatch Tameside and former PCT Chair of Tameside and Glossop, after working as a GP since 1983.

He chaired NHS Tameside and Glossop in 2009, aiming to ensure that the entire health economy worked together to improve the health of the local population and to reduce health inequalities.

He also has an interest in promoting healthier lifestyles. Dr. Chand was awarded an OBE for services to the NHS and health care.