Consultant in Ophth with a sub-specialty interest in Medical Retina

Consultant in Ophth with a sub-specialty interest in Medical Retina

The closing date is 02 June 2026

This is a replacement post for a Consultant Ophthalmologist with a sub-specialty interest in Medical Retina that is complimentary to the Ophthalmology service at Mid Cheshire Hospitals. The post is based at Leighton Hospital, Crewe, but may also include sessions at Victoria Infirmary, Northwich.

The successful candidate will help provide and lead the Medical Retina service within the Ophthalmology Department, including outpatient clinics and paediatric theatre sessions.

The appointee should have clinical training and breadth of experience in the management of ophthalmology conditions with a subspecialty interest and training in Medical Retina.

Applicants must have full registration with the GMC including a licence to practice and be on the Specialist Register (or be within six months of obtaining their Certificate of Completion of Training).

Shortlisted candidates will be expected to visit the department prior to interview.

The proposed AAC date is 23.06.2026.

Main duties of the job

The successful candidate should have the ability to offer expert clinical opinion and management on a wide range of problems within the subspecialty and general ophthalmology, at a consultant level.

Provide expert management of patients with medical retinal eye conditions such as age related macular degeneration, retinal vein occlusions, diabetic retinopathy, etc. The successful candidate will have continuing responsibility for patients under their care and be able to autonomously manage the majority of Medical Retina patients presenting within the Service.

Ideally, the candidate should be competent and experienced in undertaking cataract surgery.

Participate in general ophthalmology clinics, theatre lists and emergency eye care on a shared rota basis.

Work closely with the multidisciplinary team including optometrists, nurses, orthoptists and colleagues in neighbouring units, including referral as appropriate.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the development and leadership of the Medical Retina service, including clinical governance, service evaluation and quality improvement initiatives. The candidate must work closely and collaboratively with the other medical retina consultants to effectively deliver a coherent, aligned service, including addressing delays and backlogs.

Job responsibilities

The post is offered at 10 PA but under the terms of the 2003 Consultant Contract, candidates who wish to conduct private practice would be required to offer an additional programmed activity.

There will be 8 PAs for Direct Clinical Care (DCC).

There will be 2 Supporting Professional Activities (SPA) per week, of which 1 core SPA and 1 APA, used to work flexibly when required in line with Trust Policy.

There is a 1:10 on call non resident rota which will include evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays. There is also an on call duty during normal working hours (9 am - 5 pm, Monday to Friday), which is conducted alongside normal working duties.

Qualifications

• Full GMC Registration with licence to practice
• MBBS and FRCophth or equivalent
• Entry on the GMC Specialist Register via: oCCT (proposed CCT date must be within 6 months of interview), oCESR or oEuropean Community Rights
• PhD, MD or higher degree

Ability

• Proven ability to conduct clinical and operative ophthalmology in all areas of the specialty. Commitment to effective departmental management
• Able to demonstrate a broad awareness of service management issues.
• Demonstrates awareness of skills required for effective change processes to work
• Demonstrates ability to lead a team by positive example and effective organisational skill
• Understanding of business planning and contracting
• Proven experience in leading / facilitating a change of process

Audit and Research

• Proven involvement in clinical audit
• Proven track record of ophthalmology research with evidence of publications.
• Proven track record and evidence of publication in the area of sub specialist interest

Teaching and Education

• Evidence to allow accreditation as a Consultant Clinical Supervisor for trainee doctors with the GMC
• Evidence to allow accreditation as a Consultant Educational Supervisor for trainee doctors with the GMC
• Education/Medical Education Qualification (preferably at Masters level)

Other

• Commitment to clinical risk management and clinical governance
• Ability to communicate effectively with staff at all levels and with patients
• Access to a serviceable vehicle and a valid driving licence

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.