A PRISON doctor from HMP Full Sutton near York has become one of the first in the world to receive a Diploma in Prison Medicine.

Dr Win Maung, 55, is one of only nine doctors from around the country to be awarded the diploma which recognises the special skills required to work within a prison environment.

He was awarded the diploma by Home Office Minister George Howarth at a special ceremony in London following a two-year course at the University of Nottingham.

"I am absolutely delighted," said Dr Maung. "It is the culmination of two years hard work and recognition that prison officers operate in a specialist environment and with a unique section of the community."

"The diploma should give doctors working in the prison service a tremendous boost and hopefully encourage others to consider a career in prison medicine."

Home Office Minister George Howarth added: "Working with prisoners provides a unique challenge to prison doctors. I know many often feel isolated from their profession, but initiatives such as this diploma will increase the understanding of prison medicine."

Dr Maung has worked as a prison doctor for near four years and is currently the full time senior medical officer at Full Sutton.

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