A HEALTH chief who turned around Medway Maritime Hospital has now been appointed a roving hospital trouble-shooter.

The former chief executive, Jan Filochowski, moved Medway NHS Trust from zero star status to two star status in one year.

The Gillingham hospital had been one of the worst hospitals in the country for waiting times.

After taking up the temporary post of chief executive of the Royal United Hospital Bath last June, Mr Filochowski has now been made south east trouble shooter for the NHS. He will be temporarily responsible for improving performances at hospitals across the region.

He said: "I am a great believer in flexibility. Different challenges require different approaches. Part of the role of the new team will, of course, involve the diagnosis of management problems but the main focus will be on solving them."

His position at the Gillingham hospital in Windmill Road has been covered by Andrew Horne who was moved from his permanent position as chief executive of South Downs Heath Trust. The post will be advertised and Mr Horne has indicated he will apply for the job.