Stepping Off the Training Pathway

There are now new Scottish SAS contracts available to SAS grade doctors and dentists, with a revised Specialty Doctor (2022) contract as well as the introduction of a new Specialist (2022) grade. The Associate Specialist grade closed to new entrants in 2008. 

Specialist posts will be created by NHS Boards in response to workforce need; these will be advertised for competitive entry through local recruitment processes. The Specialist grade should provide an opportunity for progression for highly experienced Specialty Doctors, helping NHS Scotland to recruit, motivate and retain senior doctors and contribute to the SAS grades being a positive and fulfilling career choice.  

The entry criteria for the new Specialist grade are:  

• a minimum of 10 years’ medical work (either continuous period or in aggregate) since obtaining a primary medical qualification of which a minimum of six years should have been in a relevant specialty in the Specialty Doctor and/or closed SAS grades. Equivalent years’ experience in a relevant specialty from other medical grades including from overseas will also be accepted
• the doctor meets the criteria set out in the Generic Capabilities Framework for the new Specialist grade. It outlines the core competencies and skills expected across all specialties for safe working practices at this senior level. 

For further information on Scottish SAS contracts, please contact Lynne Meekison APGD SAS.