Job Description
Role Overview
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is inviting applications for a Consultant Obstetrician to join its expanding maternity team at Musgrove Park Hospital. This newly created role focuses on strengthening high-risk obstetric services and supporting the development of a dedicated elective caesarean section pathway.
This is an obstetrics-only position, offering a unique opportunity to specialise fully in maternal and fetal care without gynaecology commitments. You will play a central role in delivering advanced obstetric services within a collaborative district general hospital setting that provides care close to tertiary level.
The post includes participation in an obstetric-only on-call rota (1:12) and follows a structured 8.5:1.5 split between Direct Clinical Care (DCC) and Supporting Professional Activities (SPA).
Key Responsibilities
As a Consultant Obstetrician, your role will be both clinically focused and strategically influential. Your responsibilities will include:
Delivering high-quality care across antenatal, intrapartum, and emergency obstetric services
Leading fetal monitoring practices across Musgrove Park Hospital and Yeovil District Hospital
Performing fetal growth scans and Doppler assessments, particularly for small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and growth-restricted pregnancies
Running regular specialist clinics, including:
Weekly ultrasound/scan clinics
Fortnightly high-risk antenatal clinics (e.g. preterm birth, maternal medicine, diabetes, epilepsy)
Supporting elective caesarean section services and triage systems
Participating in consultant-led ward rounds and on-call duties
Supervising and mentoring junior doctors, contributing to teaching and training
Engaging in audit, clinical governance, and quality improvement initiatives
Supporting innovation, service development, and multidisciplinary collaboration
About the Department
You will join a highly experienced and supportive consultant team delivering a wide range of specialist services, including:
- Maternal medicine and fetal surveillance
Early pregnancy and emergency gynaecology services
Perinatal mental health care
Diabetes and endocrine disorders in pregnancy
Urogynaecology and chronic pelvic pain services
The department is forward-thinking and continuously evolving, with modern facilities such as:
- A newly developed surgical suite and delivery unit
A dedicated day-case surgical centre
A Level 2 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
Plans for a bespoke Early Pregnancy and Acute Gynaecology Unit (EPAC/GAU)
There is a strong emphasis on innovation, enhanced recovery pathways, and improving patient experience.
Working at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
The Trust is committed to supporting its staff both professionally and personally. Benefits include:
- Flexible working options
NHS Pension Scheme
Generous annual leave
Access to career development and training opportunities
Blue Light Card discounts across retail, travel, and leisure
Relocation support (subject to eligibility)
Somerset offers a high quality of life, combining scenic countryside, coastal landscapes, and access to cities such as Bristol, Bath, and Exeter. It is an ideal location for both professional growth and family life.
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications
- MBBS or equivalent medical degree
Full GMC registration with a licence to practise
Specialist registration (or within 6 months of application)
MRCOG or equivalent
CCT in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (or within 6 months)
Essential Experience
- Extensive clinical experience in obstetrics
Expertise in managing high-risk pregnancies and complex maternal conditions
Competence in fetal growth scanning and Doppler ultrasound
Ability to work independently and lead clinical decision-making
Desirable
- Higher degree (e.g. MSc)
Special interest training (SITM) in maternal medicine or fetal care
Experience in labour ward leadership or advanced obstetric practice
Qualification in medical education
Key Attributes
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Strong leadership and organisational skills
Commitment to patient-centred, compassionate care
Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams
Engagement with research, audit, and continuous improvement
Adaptability in a dynamic clinical environment
Important Information for Applicants
- This role requires a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check under UK legislation
Applications from candidates requiring visa sponsorship are welcome
For further guidance, the following official UK resources may be useful:
- Skilled Worker visa guidance
UK Visas and Immigration overview
Criminal record checks for overseas applicants
General Medical Council registration
NHS careers information
Final Note
This is an excellent opportunity for a Consultant Obstetrician seeking to specialise in high-risk obstetrics within a progressive NHS Trust. The role offers a balance of clinical leadership, teaching, and service development, all within a supportive and forward-looking environment.