Job summary
This is an exciting time to join the dynamic and forward-thinking team of gastroenterologists at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust (MPH site).
We run a comprehensive gastroenterology and hepatology service for West Somerset, with over 4,500 new outpatient referrals annually. We are also the regional hub for the NHS bowel cancer screening programme and offer a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures within a friendly DGH setting.
We have recently received substantial investment from NHS England, which has enabled us to purchase state of the art endoscopic equipment for all our procedure rooms.
The trust is currently undergoing significant modernisation with a new 80 million surgical centre/critical care build ( completion due 2025), incorporating a new endoscopy suite on the Musgrove Park Hospital site.
The hospital has an excellent reputation regionally for teaching and training, provides a number of region wide services and has a truly patient centred care focus throughout the organisation supported by excellent managers and a dedicated clinically run Improvement Network. Our services are highly rated by patients, families and stakeholders and the hospital provides an incredibly friendly supportive and collegiate atmosphere to work in.
We will consider sub-specialty interests which align with departmental requirements - candidates are encouraged to discuss in advance specific areas of interest and departmental needs.
Main duties of the job
Main duties of the job
The Gastroenterology Department at Musgrove Park Hospital offers unique opportunities to both new and existing consultants:
Supportive environment for career development
Flexible working patterns, including annualised sessions
Opportunities to join the local gastroenterology chambers providing additional NHS sessions
Advanced endoscopy including ERCP/cholangioscopy, EUS, advanced/large polyp service, BCSP, upper and lower GI stenting
Excellent support from postgraduate doctors in training with 3 HEE registrar trainees, 2 stand-alone registrar posts, 2 Clinical Fellows (F3 and above), 4 ward doctors (IMT, F2 x2, F1)
Enhanced endoscopy training programme leading to rapid acquisition of endoscopy skills for our registrars
Strong research capability and delivery
Comprehensive sub-specialty services including UGI cancer, IBD, Hepatology and nutrition
The gastroenterology team recognises that many individuals who have recently completed specialist training have not had sufficient time to fully develop their skills in endoscopy and in other areas. We are fully committed to post-CCT development and would welcome candidates who wish to further develop their rang of clinical skills. We have a strong track record in this area already with two recent appointees being supported with paid time and additional resources to learn Endoscopic Ultrasound, and Advanced Colonoscopy (Inc. large polyps). Furthermore, we have supported individuals who wish to develop as BCS Endoscopists.
About us
At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:
1. Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
2. NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security
3. Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
4. A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential
Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.
We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London .
The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future.
Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.
Job description
Job responsibilities
The post-holder will provide treatment and care to patients with gastroenterological disease in Somerset to the highest possible standards, consistent with the broader vision of 'a high quality, constantly improving Trust providing excellent clinical services'.
This will include inpatient, outpatient and endoscopy services.
Participation is expected on the on-call rota for both emergencies and out of hours ward work.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
5. MRCP (UK) or equivalent
6. Has (or will obtain within 6 months of interview) CCT in Gastroenterology +/- G(I)M
Desirable
7. MD/ PhD or
8. Other higher qualification
Experience
Essential
9. Sub-specialty interests in gastroenterology complimentary to the needs of the service
10. Understanding of clinical risk management
11. Competent to work without direct supervision where appropriate.
12. Clear, logical thinking showing an analytical & scientific approach.
13. Ability to mentor staff both medical and nursing
14. JAG (or equivalent) accreditation in upper and lower GI endoscopy
Desirable
15. Experience of clinical risk management