Empowering SAS doctors: shaping the future of NHS care
Watch this video that demonstrates the capabilities of SAS doctors and how employer support can maximise their potential.
SAS doctor roles can be a fulfilling career path, offering a good work-life balance and the chance to develop a diverse skill set. Employers should support them and provide development opportunities.
In this video, filmed at University Hospitals Derby and Burton NHS Trust (UHDB), we spoke with SAS doctors to hear about what’s important to them, how the trust supports them and their careers as well as what their aspirations are for the future of SAS.
Key points from the video:
Role of SAS doctors:
- SAS doctors are crucial to the workforce, providing essential clinical care.
- The trust employs over 160 SAS doctors who deliver independent frontline care.
Work-life balance:
- SAS roles offer flexibility, allowing doctors to maintain a balance between professional and personal life.
- Flexible working conditions are highlighted as benefits for the SAS workforce.
Leadership and career development:
- SAS doctors can take on leadership roles and are involved in change management and service improvement.
- The organisation supports SAS doctors in pursuing leadership opportunities and values their contributions.
Support and recognition:
- SAS doctors are recognised as senior clinicians and their opinions are valued.
- The trust ensures that SAS doctors have the same opportunities as consultants.
Future aspirations:
- The goal is to encourage SAS doctors to take up leadership roles within the trust and at a wider level, such as in NHS England.
- The trust aims to create a self-sufficient and content SAS workforce without limitations.
With thanks to:
- Dr Ajay Bajoria, SAS tutor, Queens Hospital, Burton
- Dr Jothi Vasan-O’Leary, UHDB outpatient clinical lead and medical informatics officer
- Dr Tracey Tinklin, medical director for postgraduate medical education
- Dr Gauri Sankhe, SAS advocate, UHDB.
