Get involved: Specialty and Associate Specialist (SAS) Doctor's Lead

Posted 23 April 2021

Date: 23 Apr 2021

Type: FSRH News and Information

Are you interested in supporting SAS doctors and getting more involved in our work? Find out more below.

We have an exciting opportunity for a GMC registered doctor to help us identify actions to better engage and support (Specialty and Associate Specialist) SAS Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare (SRH) doctors in their roles. This role is a co-opted member of FSRH's Council. 

This voluntary role is open to FSRH members who are General Medical Council (GMC) registered doctors, interested in getting more involved in our work. The role is a two year tenure and involves (currently remote) attendance at our FSRH Council and Workforce Development and Support Committee meetings. 

Why is the role needed?

SAS doctors make up a large proportion of doctors working in SRH. They often work in senior roles within their departments and there are many SRH services lead by SAS doctors.

Unlike trainees or consultants, SAS doctors may not have the same support for career development. SAS doctors are often described as the “back-bone” or “work-horses” of a service but may not be given recognition for their commitment. When they are ready or want to pursue further training, they can be hampered by service obligations, lack of funding or management support.

A joint publication by the Academy of Royal Colleges, BMA, Health Education England and NHS Employers entitled “SAS doctor development – Summary of resources and further work” (2017) highlighted some of the struggles which face SAS doctors.

These include  career progression and support from employers, Certificate of Eligibility for Specialty Registration (CESR) application, recognition and respect of the skills and contribution made to the service in which SAS doctors work and the ongoing stigma surrounding being an SAS doctor. We have created this role to help increase our support for SAS doctors.

How can I apply?

The deadline to submit your application is 10:00am on Monday 31 May 2021.

Interview dates will be held in the afternoon on:

  • Tuesday, 8 June 2021
  • Wednesday, 9 June 2021
  • Two further dates to be announced

To submit your application, fill in the online application form here.

Read the full role description below.