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Main area rheumatology Grade NHS Medical & Dental: Consultant Contract Permanent: Maternity cover Hours Full time - 10 sessions per week (Current job plan has NWT on thurs PM and all day friday (except for ward weeks)) Job ref 279-MWWTGCONRHEUM-675
Employer University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust Employer type NHS Site Worthing Hospital Town Worthing Salary £109,725 - £145,478 Per Annum Salary period Yearly Closing 05/11/2026 23:59
Job overview
We are seeking to appoint a substantive Consultant Rheumatologist. The appointee will work with Consultant colleagues to provide a comprehensive service for residents across West Sussex. The Rheumatology department is part of the MSK Directorate including Trauma and Orthopaedics and Pain Management. The post will be based predominantly at Worthing and Southlands Hospitals. However there will be some sessions at other Trust locations if and when required.
The post offers an excellent opportunity for you to develop as a Consultant and also contribute to service development.
Main duties of the job
- Outpatient clinics: assessment of all new patients at their first appointment; review of follow-up patients; discussion and review of follow-up patients seen by Speciality Doctors and clinical nurse specialists (CNS); joint injections and other procedures.
- Ward referrals and other DCC duties: specialist review of inpatients referred by other medical teams with rheumatic complaints; weekly combined radiology MDT.
- Administrative duties directly related to this: out-patient clinic letter dictation and signing; blood and imaging report signing; result letter dictation; GP referral letter grading; prescription of biologic drugs, parenteral osteoporosis and DMARD medication; medical report writing.
- Telephone and email advice: giving advice on the management of rheumatic diseases to GPs, allied health professionals, other specialists.
- Clinical audit: writing local audit proposals and reports; collecting clinical audit data; presenting results; participation in regional and national clinical audits (data collection).
- Clinical and educational supervision of CNSs and clinical assistants
- Involvement with the Trust Clinical Governance programme. There will be a commitment to supporting the education of medical students from Brighton (BSMS) in their placements, and the potential to develop managerial and research interests. There are strong links to the KSS Deanery and Brighton & Sussex Medical School.
- Rheumatology On-Call Commitment: None
Working for our organisation
Working for our organisation
At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always deliver Excellent Care Everywhere, as shown in our Outstanding for Caring CQC rating. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of staff networks to help break down barriers, and can offer abuddy to help new members settle in. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 3) and a Veteran Aware Trust.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Outpatient clinics: assessment of all new patients at their first appointment; review of follow-up patients; discussion and review of follow-up patients seen by Speciality Doctors and clinical nurse specialists (CNS); joint injections and other procedures.
- Ward referrals and other DCC duties: specialist review of inpatients referred by other medical teams with rheumatic complaints; weekly combined radiology MDT.
- Administrative duties directly related to this: out-patient clinic letter dictation and signing; blood and imaging report signing; result letter dictation; GP referral letter grading; prescription of biologic drugs, parenteral osteoporosis and DMARD medication; medical report writing.
- Telephone and email advice: giving advice on the management of rheumatic diseases to GPs, allied health professionals, other specialists.
- Clinical audit: writing local audit proposals and reports; collecting clinical audit data; presenting results; participation in regional and national clinical audits (data collection).
- Clinical and educational supervision of CNSs and clinical assistants
- Involvement with the Trust Clinical Governance programme. There will be a commitment to supporting the education of medical students from Brighton (BSMS) in their placements, and the potential to develop managerial and research interests. There are strong links to the KSS Deanery and Brighton & Sussex Medical School.
Person specification
- FRC/MRC specialty - e.g. FRCS, MRCP, etc. or its recognised equivalent.
- Full and specialist registration (with a licence to practise) with the GMC or be eligible for registration within six months of the interview. If you trained in the UK, you must also have a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) in Rheumatology or be within six months of receiving it by the interview date. If you trained outside the UK, you must provide evidence that your qualifications are equivalent to the UK CCT. (Equivalence must be confirmed by GMC by date of AAC)
- Higher Degree
Clinical Skills & Experience
- Evidence of advanced skills in management of general rheumatology and rare autoimmune rheumatic conditions
- Evidence of interest in CTD/ vasculitis
- Evidence of competency injecting joints
- Understanding of clinical risk management
Knowledge
- Breadth of experience in and outside specialty
Organisation & Planning
- Experience and ability to work in multi-professional teams.
- Understanding of: NHS / Clinical governance / Resource constraints
- Evidence of managerial skills: Achievements / Course attended
Teaching Skills
- Evidence of an interest and commitment to teaching
- Recognised teaching qualification
Academic and Research
- Evidence of participation in audit
- Research experience
- Publications
- Prizes and honours
- Appropriate progression of career to date
Personal Attributes
- Evidence of: Good communication skills both oral and written
Important information for applicants:
A Note on AI Use in Applications
UHSussex values authenticity and encourages applicants to ensure that all application materials accurately reflect their own skills, experience, knowledge and motivations. Candidates may use AI and digital tools to support the preparation of applications, for example to assist with spelling, grammar, structure or accessibility needs. However, applicants remain responsible for the content submitted and should ensure that it genuinely represents their own abilities and experience. Where there are reasonable concerns that an application does not authentically reflect the applicant's own knowledge, skills, experience or suitability for the role, the Trust reserves the right to explore this further and, where authenticity cannot be satisfactorily demonstrated, to reject the application.
Bank Workers: Bank workers are welcome to apply for any of our vacancies but please note if you are successful at interview there will be a delay in confirming a start date due to the Trust's current financial controls.
Closing Adverts Early: In the event of exceptional interest, we may close adverts earlier than specified.
Some of our adverts are capped for a limited number of applications; therefore, the advert will close once the cap has been reached. We therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible if you are interested in the position to prevent you from missing out on applying for the opportunity.
Flexible Working: If you would like to explore potential options regarding flexible working please speak with the appropriate recruiting/line manager.
DBS Checks: As part of our commitment to a safe working environment, we undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check on all new employees where the role is eligible for a criminal record check . We make offers in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975.
Skilled Worker Visa: Applications for Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome for the roles that meet the Visa and Immigrations eligibility criteria. For further information please visit the gov.uk website searching for Skilled Worker. It is your responsibility as the applicant to ensure that you meet this criteria.
UHSussex reserves the right to close the role early if we receive a high volume of applications
Further Information
For help with the application process for Nursing vacancies, please email uhsussex.nursingteam@nhs.net.
For help with the application process for Non-Nursing vacancies, please email uhsussex.nonnursingteam@nhs.net.
Employer certification / accreditation badges
You must have appropriate UK professional registration.
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Name Dr Alastair Hepburn Job title Consultant Rheumatologist Email address alastair.hepburn1@nhs.net Telephone number 01903205111
Additional information
Dr Alastair Hepburn, Consultant Rheumatologist or Mr Madhu Rao, Clinical Director
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Consultant Rheumatologist in Worthing employer: University Hospitals Sussex
The University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises staff development and collaboration. As an Antenatal Clinic Team Leader in Brighton, you will benefit from a dynamic environment where your leadership skills can flourish while making a meaningful impact on the lives of women and families. With a commitment to quality improvement and evidence-based care, this role provides unique opportunities for professional growth within a renowned healthcare institution.
Contact Details:
University Hospitals Sussex Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Consultant Rheumatologist in Worthing
✨Join Medical Networks
Get involved in local and national medical associations, like the Royal College of Physicians. These networks can help you connect with mentors and colleagues who might know of openings, plus they're great for staying updated on the latest in medicine and clinical practices.
✨Attend Healthcare Conferences
Make it a habit to attend medical conferences and seminars. These events are fantastic for networking and often feature job boards where hospitals and clinics post their openings. Plus, it’s a good way to get your face recognised in the industry.
✨Leverage Your Medical School's Resources
Don’t forget to use your medical school’s career services! They usually have great connections with hospitals and clinics looking to fill full-time physician positions and can help you with mock interviews or networking events.
✨Apply Directly Through Hospital Websites
When you're ready to apply, make sure to check the careers section of hospital websites directly. Hospitals like University Hospitals Sussex often post their job openings there first, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other applicants.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Credentials:When applying for a physician role, make sure to highlight your medical qualifications and any special certifications you have. We want to see your medical degree, residency training, and any additional certifications that set you apart, like specialised training in paediatrics or geriatrics. Don’t leave out those all-important letters after your name!
Tailor Your CV to Medicine:Your CV should reflect your experience and skills as a doctor. Be specific about your clinical rotations, medical practice, and any research work you've done – we love seeing quantifiable impacts, so mention how you've improved patient care or led successful treatment plans.
Craft a Personal Statement with Heart:In your cover letter, let us know why you chose medicine and what drives your passion for patient care. Personal stories about transformative experiences—like a memorable patient encounter or a moment that defined your career path—can really make you shine. Remember, we're looking for someone who genuinely cares about their patients!
Demonstrate Continuous Learning:In the medical field, showcasing your commitment to continuous learning is essential. Mention any recent courses, workshops, or conferences you’ve attended, and highlight your willingness to stay updated on medical advancements. This shows us that you’re not just a physician; you're a lifelong learner, ready to adapt and grow.
How to prepare for a job interview at University Hospitals Sussex
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at University Hospitals Sussex. Expect questions about diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient management. Be ready to discuss case studies or even do some role-playing with hypothetical patient scenarios for a more practical assessment.
✨Know Your Procedures and Protocols
Familiarise yourself with the latest procedures and protocols that are specific to the field of medicine you’re applying to. Whether it’s surgical techniques or patient care protocols, being able to discuss these confidently can really set you apart in the interview at University Hospitals Sussex.
✨Show You're a Team Player
In the medical field, collaboration is key. Have examples ready that showcase your teamwork and communication skills. Talk about how you've worked with nurses, specialists, or other doctors in the past to provide the best care for your patients. This shows you're ready to integrate into the team at University Hospitals Sussex.
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Make sure you’re clued up on the latest medical trends, research, and innovations. Not only does this prepare you for technical questions, but it also shows your passion for the field. Be ready to discuss how these trends might affect your practice at University Hospitals Sussex.
