Respiratory medicine specialist Professor Matthew Peters awarded medal.

The 2021 Pride of Concord Medal has been awarded to respiratory medicine specialist Professor Matthew Peters, in recognition of his significant contribution to the hospital.

Professor Peters has played a key leadership role in Sydney Local Health District's response to the pandemic as the Head of Respiratory Medicine and COVID-19 lead at Concord Hospital.

He has provided valuable advice and support to the hospital's Executive, doctors, nurses and allied health workers over the past two years.

And, in September this year, he oversaw the transfer of patients in the hospital's COVID wards to the new clinical services building after it's opening was fast-tracked to care for them.

The Medal was presented during a special ceremony at the hospital.

"Concord has given me a lot. I am grateful for everybody who has supported me. Thank you for the acknowledgement. It's been a privilege to serve the community in this way," Professor Peters said.

The hospital's General Manager Dr Genevieve Wallace said it was a fitting accolade, given Professor Peters almost 40 years of service.

"Matthew has made a significant contribution to Concord Hospital. He has been the head of the Thoracic Medicine since 2001. Most importantly, Matthew has led our COVID activities at Concord. He has been available 24 hours, seven days a week to provide advice," Dr Wallace said.

The peer-nominated award is the hospital's highest honour.

"Matthew is part of the heart of Concord Hospital. His leadership, particularly during COVID, has been invaluable. There's no doubt our respiratory services are second to none, because of Matthew's leadership," Dr Anderson said.

"The Pride of Concord is such an apt award for Matthew, recognising his contribution not only at Concord Hospital, but across Sydney Local Health District and across the state," she said.

Professor Peters' colleagues describe him as a collaborative, approachable leader who is committed to providing high quality care for all patients.

They described him as agile and adaptable – able to seamlessly respond to changes in policy and direction – while his commitment to staff instilled confidence in those working on COVID-19 wards.

In addition to the framed Medal, Professor Peters received a gold lion pin, a cheque for $5000 to put towards professional development and a dinner voucher.

The medal was first awarded in 2015.