Trust Doctor - Vascular (ST3/ST4/ST5)

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Trust Doctor - Vascular (ST3/ST4/ST5)

The closing date is 27 May 2025

Applications are invited for the post of Trust Doctor in Vascular Surgery (SPR-level). The successful applicant will work a 1 in 6 vascular on-call with no commitment to General Surgery. The post would suit experienced trainees (senior SHO/core trainees) who wish to obtain further grounding/experience in open and endovascular surgery, prior to appointment on a higher surgical training programme. This post offers an opportunity for a SPR equivalent surgical trainee to gain experience in a large acute hospital, gaining wide experience in emergency and elective practice. The post holder will also have the opportunity to attend departmental surgery teaching sessions, participate in Morbidity and Mortality meetings, and present audits to peers. We are one of three tertiary centres for vascular services in the North East, serving a population of approximately 900,000. The team includes 8 Consultant Surgeons, 5 Specialist Vascular Nurses, and junior doctors (4xF1, 2xSHO, 6xSpR), supported by nursing and administrative staff, and collaborating with services such as Occupational Therapy, Podiatry, and Physiotherapy. The team also works closely with Radiology to offer non-invasive treatments for vascular patients, including interventions by specialist interventional Radiologists.

Main duties of the job

The service provides a comprehensive Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) programme. Major operations are performed at Sunderland, with outpatient clinics at Sunderland, South Tyneside, Bishop Auckland, and North Durham Hospitals. A dedicated vascular ward at Sunderland Royal Hospital has capacity for 24 patients and is managed by a Ward Manager and two Junior Sisters. Day-case procedures are also performed at Durham Treatment Centre for local patients. The Directorate is dynamic, emphasizing education, innovation, clinical effectiveness, and efficiency, with a focus on patient-centric care and improving access to services. The successful candidate will support senior colleagues in shaping and maintaining this modern department.

Informal discussions and visits can be arranged with:

About us

Please add your telephone number to your application form for quick contact if needed.

One Team One Trust - We offer many reasons to work at our Trust, including our commitment to putting people first, accessible services, and award-winning teams. We value research, innovation, and tackling inequalities. Our culture promotes respect, fairness, civility, compassion, and a positive working environment.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds, especially from underrepresented groups. We prioritize staff health and wellbeing and provide access to high-quality education, training, and career progression. Flexible working is supported via our Flexible Working Policy.

The Trust employs around 8,600 staff, providing hospital services to approximately 430,000 residents, with specialized services reaching up to 860,000 people. Our staff benefits include a Fitness Centre (SRH), libraries, chaplaincy support, and childcare assistance. The Trust will not accept applications generated by AI.

Job responsibilities

We seek a motivated individual to join as a Trust Doctor at Registrar level at this major arterial centre. The post requires experience equivalent to ST3-6 trainees wishing to further develop skills in vascular and endovascular surgery.

The unit specializes in surgeon-led/endovascular care, aortic surgery, carotid endarterectomy, lower limb reconstruction, and complex venous work. Active participation in departmental meetings, rota management, and junior doctor teaching is expected. Clinical audit, governance, and morbidity & mortality meetings are mandatory.

The successful applicant will participate in a 1:6 on-call rota supporting vascular services exclusively, with no on-call duties in General Surgery. The post is mainly based at Sunderland Royal Hospital, with some outpatient and day-case activities at other sites.

This position is not recognized for training by the Postgraduate Deanery. It is a 12-month fixed-term appointment. It offers opportunities for research, learning endovascular techniques, and routine open vascular surgery. The department specializes in surgeon-led/endovascular care, aortic surgery, carotid endarterectomy, lower limb reconstruction, renal access, and venous work.

Participation in departmental meetings, rota management, and teaching is expected. Applicants should have GMC registration and MRCS or equivalent qualification.

Person Specification

• Understanding of continuous professional development requirements.
• Evidence of career progression.
• Commitment to personal and departmental CPD.
• Participation in meetings and courses.
• Membership of professional bodies.
• Knowledge of the post applied for.
• Understanding of clinical governance and risk issues.
• Good written and spoken English skills.

Professional Behaviour and Attitude

• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.
• Effective communication with colleagues and patients.
• Alignment with the Trust's core values.
• Professional conduct and flexibility.
• Leadership skills.
• IT literacy.

Teaching

• Experience teaching medical students and Foundation Doctors.

Qualifications

• Primary Medical Qualification.
• Full GMC registration.
• MRCS or equivalent.
• Experience in vascular surgery at ST3+ level or equivalent.
• Good history and examination skills.
• Ability to diagnose, investigate, and interpret relevant imaging.
• Experience working in the NHS.
• Ability to perform routine vascular procedures independently.

Clinical Governance, Audit, and Research

• Experience with audit projects.
• Publications and research experience.

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to DBS checks under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975 (Exceptions Order). A disclosure application will be required.

South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust