Sub-consultant grades
High human-resource costs of healthcare relative to GDP mean healthcare becomes less affordable for a relatively stagnant UK in terms of growth. An increase in SAS-grade posts or a new sub-consultant grade is required to provide cheaper and more-flexible roles so services, teaching, flexible work plans and the running of departments can be delivered without consultants needing to be present 24/7. Instead, a smaller number of consultants would support. Career progression would be available through fellowships and/or modular accreditation to guide doctors in these roles before applying for consultant posts.
Proposed workforce impact
- There would be growth in sub-consultant grades.
Sources or references
Additional research questions
- Will the sub-consultant grade end up doing the same work as consultants for less remuneration?
- Will there be enough consultant posts to match the aspirations of doctors at a sub-consultant grade?
- How will SAS-grade doctors near retirement be replaced?
Some of the information in this section is provided by stakeholders and expert groups, and does not necessarily represent the views of the CfWI.
