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NHS Consultant recruitment
22/11/2007
A consultation on the best way to improve and modernise the recruitment process for consultants working in the NHS was launched today.
It follows research into contemporary recruitment practice and discussions with key stakeholders on the current system, which found a number of areas where it could be improved.
At present consultants who are members of the National Panel of Specialists sit on Advisory Appointment Committees (AACs). The function of AACs, which comprise representatives from the employing body and the National Panel, is to recommend to Health Boards candidates that are suitable for employment.
On average, it takes six months or more to fill a post using existing regulations, which were last reviewed in 1993.
Three options are contained in the consultation:
- Retain the status quo, but aim to introduce some improvements through the inclusion of training for National Panellists and clarification on the role of the National Panellist as external reviewers
- Introduce a two-stage recruitment process including a clear separation of the roles of the Academy of Royal Colleges and Faculties in Scotland and NHS Boards
- Issue Scottish Government guidance and allow individual NHS Boards to undertake recruitment for consultants to suit local need. Best practice in contemporary recruitment would be shared with Boards
Health and Wellbeing Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said:
"It is vitally important that we have the best system possible in place for recruiting the most senior doctors to the NHS.
"Scotland has a unique opportunity to be the first to establish best practice recruitment and selection methods at this senior medical level.
"There is a strong case for improvement - the evidence from pre-consultation suggests that the current appointments process for senior medical recruitment in Scotland could work more efficiently.
"We have already held extensive discussions with stakeholders and any change to the arrangements as a result of this consultation will continue to be discussed with the Academy of Royal Colleges and Faculties in Scotland and Health Boards.
"All the stakeholders interviewed, ranging from board chairs to recent consultant candidates, could identify areas for improvement."
Representing NHS managers, George Brechin, Chief Executive at NHS Fife, said:
"Health Boards in Scotland are delighted with the opportunity to make improvements to the current process. Consultants are key to delivering high quality patient services and robust recruitment is an important Board responsibility".
The consultation is due to last for three months.