Blog: Distinguished Service Medal winner Tom McFarlane

Find out more about Tom McFarlane, who was awarded the RCOG Distinguished Service Medal in October 2022

The RCOG Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) was awarded to Tom McFarlane FRCOG for his contribution to education and support for trainees over many years.

The College became aware of Tom’s contribution during conversations with new Members at their admission ceremonies. One of them – a recent gold medallist – offered to seek testimonials from colleagues who had benefitted from Tom’s coaching and guidance and the examples below are just one of the many received.

"Tom is a fantastic, kind, caring person who is truly one of a kind. He is so unbelievably generous with his time and knowledge and made my revision seem less daunting and much more manageable. His passion for the speciality is inspiring and I feel honoured to have had the opportunity to spend time with him."

"Tom’s commitment to teaching and supporting trainees over decades is absolutely overwhelming. We all owe him a huge debt of gratitude."

"He was so generous with his time. He is an absolute legend and made what is an incredibly stressful time seem bearable. He deserves recognition for the quality and duration of his service."

Tom worked as a consultant in O&G in Stockport between 1980 and 2005. He spent much of his working life as an educator, supporting trainees with their MRCOG exams, something he continues to do on a regular basis despite being retired. Officers decided to recognise his extraordinary commitment after learning of his longstanding dedication to education within O&G.