Consultant Stroke Physician(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Automotive Jobs, Health and Care
Uk
March 14, 2026
Full Time Permanent
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Job Description

Role Overview

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is seeking an experienced and motivated Consultant Stroke Physician to join its well-established stroke service. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of stroke care across Somerset, particularly with the introduction of a new 12-bed Hyperacute Stroke Unit (HASU) scheduled to open in April 2026 at Musgrove Park Hospital.

The successful candidate will become part of a collaborative team consisting of eight consultant stroke physicians and four specialist doctors, working together to deliver high-quality, patient-focused stroke care throughout the county.

This position offers the chance to influence the future of stroke services while working in a supportive environment that values teamwork, innovation and professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

The Consultant Stroke Physician will play a central role in delivering comprehensive stroke care across the entire patient pathway.

Main duties include:

  • Leading daily ward rounds within the Hyperacute Stroke Unit
  • Supporting a 24-hour thrombolysis service in collaboration with regional telemedicine networks
  • Managing rapid access transient ischaemic attack (TIA) clinics, operating seven days a week
  • Providing care for stroke patients at both acute stroke units within the Trust
  • Contributing to stroke rehabilitation and early supported discharge programmes
  • Supporting and leading clinical research projects and stroke trials
  • Supervising and teaching junior doctors, trainees and medical students
  • Participating in the 1-in-8 weekend on-call rota for hyperacute stroke services
  • Although the primary base will be Musgrove Park Hospital, occasional work may take place at Yeovil District Hospital.

Job Plan

The consultant role will typically include:

  • 10 Programmed Activities (PAs)
  • 8.5 Direct Clinical Care
  • 1.5 Supporting Professional Activities

Additional SPA time may be available for leadership roles, research activities, service innovation or teaching commitments. A final job plan will be agreed with the successful candidate.

Why Join Somerset NHS Foundation Trust

Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is recognised as the first integrated healthcare provider in England, bringing together acute hospital care, community services, mental health support and primary care under one organisation.

Key benefits include:

  • Participation in a county-wide stroke service transformation programme
  • Access to modern clinical facilities, including upgraded imaging services and intensive care units
  • Strong involvement in national stroke research studies
  • Opportunities for leadership, education and service development
  • Flexible working arrangements and a supportive multidisciplinary culture
  • A relocation package of up to £7,700 for eligible applicants

Living and Working in Somerset

Somerset offers an excellent quality of life with scenic countryside, historic towns and excellent schools. The region is close to major cities such as Bristol, Bath, Exeter and London, making it an attractive location for professionals seeking both career growth and lifestyle balance.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Essential Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate the following:

  • Membership of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP) or an equivalent qualification
  • Full registration with the General Medical Council and a licence to practise
  • Entry on the GMC Specialist Register or eligibility within six months of receiving a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT)

Strong clinical experience in:

  • Acute stroke management
  • Thrombolysis treatment
  • TIA assessment and management
  • Stroke rehabilitation
  • Excellent communication, teamwork and leadership skills

Desirable Criteria

Additional qualifications or experience that would be beneficial include:

  • A higher research degree (e.g., MD or PhD)
  • Experience in teaching, clinical audit and service leadership
  • Active involvement in stroke research or quality improvement initiatives

Safeguarding and Background Checks

This role requires an enhanced background check in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions Order 1975). A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required before appointment.

Visa Sponsorship and Professional Registration

Applications from international candidates requiring visa sponsorship are welcome, subject to UK immigration rules.

Helpful government guidance for applicants:

Informal Enquiries

The Trust encourages potential applicants to arrange an informal discussion or visit before applying.

Contacts include:

  • Consultant Stroke Physician & Clinical Service Lead
  • Clinical Director for Stroke Transformation
  • Stroke Service Manager

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