Job Description
Shape the Future of Acute Care in Somerset
This role offers more than participation in the acute medical rota — it is an opportunity to influence how urgent and emergency medical care is delivered across Somerset. We are seeking a Consultant in Acute Medicine who combines strong clinical judgement with a passion for service development, teaching, and team leadership.
Based at Yeovil District Hospital, you will join a forward-thinking acute care team within one of the most integrated healthcare systems in England. Our annualised job planning model is designed to provide flexibility and sustainability, helping you deliver high-quality care while maintaining balance outside of work.
Why Join Somerset NHS Foundation Trust?
As the first mainland trust in England to integrate acute, community, and mental health services, we operate with a whole-system mindset. Our commitment to training excellence is reflected in consistently high GMC trainee feedback across the South West.
We offer:
- Flexible annualised job planning
- Dedicated time for specialist interests (2 PAs)
- Leadership and educational opportunities
- Relocation support (subject to terms)
- Access to NHS Pension Scheme
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Blue Light Card benefits
The Role
You will work across the Acute Medical Unit (AMU), Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC), and Emergency Department (ED), providing senior clinical decision-making and overseeing patient flow.
Core Responsibilities
Clinical Leadership
- Lead the daily medical take and post-take ward rounds
- Provide senior support for referrals and complex case discussions
- Facilitate safe and timely discharge planning
Service Improvement
- Contribute to pathway redesign and protocol development
- Strengthen integration with community and specialty services
- On-Call Commitment
- Participate in the General Internal Medicine rota (currently 1 in 16 weekends annually)
Education & Supervision
- Support postgraduate trainees and locally employed doctors
- Contribute to the training of medical students from the University of Bristol
Specialist Development
You will have 2 Programmed Activities (PAs) to pursue a specialist interest. Areas may include:
- Frailty
- Perioperative medicine
- Acute oncology
- Palliative care
- Medical education
Quality & Governance
- Engage in audit and quality improvement projects
- Participate in appraisal and revalidation processes
- Maintain standards set by the General Medical Council
- Example Job Plan (11 PAs)
- 6 PAs – Direct Clinical Care (Acute Medicine)
- 2 PAs – Specialist Interest
- 2 PAs – Supporting Professional Activities (including education)
- 1 PA – On-call commitment (+ supplement)
- Final job planning will be agreed in discussion with the successful candidate.
Candidate Requirements
Essential
- MBBS (or equivalent)
- MRCP (or equivalent)
- Full registration with the General Medical Council and licence to practise
- Entry on the GMC Specialist Register (or within six months of CCT)
- Broad experience in General and Acute Medicine
- Ability to lead and collaborate within a multidisciplinary team
Desirable
- MD, PhD, or additional postgraduate qualifications
- Recognised specialist interest aligned with acute care
- Experience in audit, research, or NHS service development
- Living and Working in Somerset
Somerset combines professional opportunity with an exceptional lifestyle. You will benefit from:
- Easy access to Bristol, Bath, Exeter and London
- Outstanding countryside and coastline
- Competitive housing compared to major metropolitan areas
- High-performing schools and strong community networks
Sponsorship & Regulatory Information
Applications from candidates requiring Skilled Worker visa sponsorship are welcomed and will be considered in line with UK immigration guidance.
Useful official resources:
- Skilled Worker visa guidance
- Criminal record checks for overseas applicants
- Disclosure and Barring Service information
- Rehabilitation of Offenders Act guidance
- GMC registration and licensing
All appointments are subject to satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service clearance.