Job Description
About the Role
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is looking to appoint a Consultant Obstetrician with a strong interest in maternal medicine and fetal care. This is a newly created, full-time position designed to strengthen high-risk obstetric services and support the development of a dedicated elective caesarean section pathway.
This is an obstetrics-only post, meaning there are no gynaecology duties. You’ll be working in a supportive and forward-thinking team environment, delivering care that approaches tertiary-level standards within a district general hospital.
The role is structured as 10 Programmed Activities (PAs) with an 8.5:1.5 split (Direct Clinical Care to Supporting Professional Activities). Participation in the 1:12 obstetric on-call rota is required.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
- Deliver comprehensive obstetric care across inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings
Take a leadership role in fetal monitoring across Musgrove Park Hospital and Yeovil District Hospital
Perform fetal growth scans and Doppler assessments, particularly for small-for-gestational-age (SGA) pregnancies
Lead and run:
Weekly ultrasound clinics
- Fortnightly high-risk antenatal clinics (e.g., preterm birth, diabetes, epilepsy, maternal medicine)
Support elective caesarean section services and obstetric triage
Conduct twice-daily consultant-led ward rounds while on call
Provide supervision, teaching, and mentorship to junior doctors
Participate in clinical governance, audits, and service improvement projects
Contribute to research, innovation, and multidisciplinary collaboration
Working Environment
You’ll join a well-established and collaborative department offering a wide range of specialist services, including:
- Maternal medicine and fetal surveillance
Early pregnancy care
Perinatal mental health services
Diabetes and endocrinology in pregnancy
Urogynaecology and chronic pelvic pain management
Facilities include modern surgical suites, upgraded delivery areas, a dedicated day-case centre, and a Level 2 neonatal unit. The department is also actively developing enhanced early pregnancy and emergency gynaecology services.
About Somerset
Somerset offers a balance of countryside living and easy access to cities such as Bristol, Bath, and Exeter. With more affordable housing than many UK regions and excellent schooling options, it’s a practical and appealing place to live and work.
Benefits
The Trust provides a strong benefits package, including:
- Flexible working arrangements
NHS pension scheme
Generous annual leave
Career development and training opportunities
Blue Light Card discounts
Relocation support (subject to eligibility)
Person Specification
Essential Requirements
- Full GMC registration with a licence to practise
CCT in Obstetrics & Gynaecology (or within 6 months)
MRCOG (or equivalent)
Significant experience in obstetrics, particularly high-risk cases
Competence in fetal growth scanning and Doppler ultrasound
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
Desirable Skills
- Advanced training or qualification in maternal medicine or fetal care
Experience in labour ward leadership
Additional qualifications (e.g., MSc, medical education)
Additional Information
- This role requires a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
Skilled Worker visa sponsorship is available for eligible candidates
Overseas applicants must provide criminal record certificates as per UKVI guidance
Useful Government Resources
For more information related to working and relocating to the UK, you may find these official links helpful:
- Skilled Worker Visa Guidance
UK Visas and Immigration Overview
Criminal Record Checks for Overseas Applicants
NHS Careers Guidance
General Medical Council Registration