Job summary
The Histopathology Services of North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust is based at the Cumberland Infirmary site. The laboratory processes approximately 21997 histology requests per annum and 1254 non-gynaecological cytology requests, including some FNA work.
The laboratory is UKAS ISO 15189 accredited and HTA licenced to conduct post mortems and store bodies at the Cumberland Infirmary, and a satellite licence as a body store at West Cumberland Hospital.
There are currently WTE Consultant Histopathologists in post at Carlisle, with an establishment for WTE posts. There is also a Specialty Doctor post. We have a very friendly and happy working environment, with a strong team approach to making the service successful. The histopathology service is well regarded across the Trust despite working below full consultant capacity for several years. We provide support to each consultant individually to help manage their workload. Excess work is outsourced.
Main duties of the job
Histology
In 2023 a total of 21997 histology requests were received. The normal full range of diagnostic material is processed. Neuropathology is not performed. Histology duties are undertaken on a daily rota.
Examples of annual workload 2023 for some specimen types (not exhaustive)
NUMBER OF CASES REPORTED PER ANNUM
Endoscopic biopsies
5277
Colectomies
145
Skin
6657
Breast Cores
1097
Breast resections
327
Cervical biopsies and Cervical LLetz
1350
Liver biopsies
48
Renal biopsies
66
Fully automated immunohistochemistry is provided with a comprehensive range of routine antibodies.
Rapid biopsy processing can be undertaken using a rapid hybrid tissue processor.
The laboratory is served by the Telepath computer system with links across the Trust and NHS networks. The Trust is currently working collaboratively with other laboratories in the North-East to replace our current LIMS with Cerner LIMS, which is anticipated to occur during 2023.
85% of requests are from hospital cases (Cumberland Infirmary and West Cumberland Hospital), 15% from General Practitioners.
Non-Gynaecological Cytology
In 2023 a total of 1254 non-gynae cytology requests were received. Specimens cover the normal range expected. 95% of requests are generated from hospital wards and clinics. FNAs are taken by surgeons/radiologists. Non gynaecological cytology is distributed by daily rota.
About us
The post currently attracts a discretionary recruitment premium of up to 10% (based on basic salary) per annum. This is pensionable, payable for up to 4 years and is reviewed by the Trust on an annual basis.
Relocation assistance of up to £8,000 may be available for successful applicants moving to the region.
Please contact Dr Fergus Young to discuss working within the pathology department in North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust.
Job description
Job responsibilities
Please review the attached job description for further information and the main responsibilities for this role.
Person Specification
Education & Qualifications
Essential
1. FRCPath or equivalent
2. Full GMC registration (and with a licence to practise) with the General Medical Council (GMC).
Experience & Knowledge
Essential
3. Wide experience of reporting in Cellular Pathology
4. Evidence of continuing medical education (existing consultants must demonstrate active participation in CPD)
5. Non gynae experience including FNA diagnostic work
6. Ability to organise and manage clinical workload
7. Ability to present histology and cytology findings to clinical colleagues in MDT meetings
8. Ability to take full and independent responsibility for liaising with clinical staff for the care of patients
9. Clinical Governance
Desirable
10. Experience of coronial post mortem work and willingness to participate in autopsy rota
11. Experience in small group teaching
12. Experience of supervising
Teaching, Audit and Research
Essential
13. Experience of and commitment to teaching undergraduate and postgraduate medical staff
14. Ability to teach clinical and personal skills required for histopathology
15. Ability to apply research outcomes to clinical and surgical problems
16. Experience of, and commitment to clinical audit
Desirable
17. Teaching of non-medical health professionals
18. Research publications
Continued Professional and Personal Development
Essential
19. Demonstrable evidence of lifelong learning
20. Reflective approach to personal development with an ability to acknowledge and effectively manage poor performance
21. Participation in appropriate peer review processes
Communication Skills and Abilities
Essential
22. Must be able to relate well to all staff
23. Ability to work in a team
24. Empathetic and sensitive approach to patient needs
25. Approachable and effective Multi-disciplinary team member with excellent interpersonal skills
26. Team loyalty
27. Positive approach to lessons learnt
28. Confident approach without being arrogant
Desirable
29. IT Skills
30. Presentation Skills