Who are SAS surgeons?
SAS doctors and dentists are a hugely diverse group with a broad range of experience and expertise. The term ‘SAS’ covers staff grade, associate specialist, specialty and specialist grades, although some of these grades are now closed to new entrants - find out more about SAS careers. To find out about the history of the SAS role, see Mr Fuad Abid’s story.
What do SAS surgeons do?
Responsibilities and training among SAS surgeons vary greatly. Some are engaged in major complex surgery while others provide minor diagnostic procedures and outpatient services. Most SAS surgeons carry out elective and routine surgery; their contribution being important to the provision of many surgical services and achieving targets.
SAS working hours
SAS surgeons frequently work more regular hours than consultant or trainee colleagues, experiencing a different work/life balance. For full-time specialty doctors, the working week is normally 40-48 hours, comprising 10 programmed activities, or blocks of time, of four hours each. Most of these are dedicated to clinical work (including administration) and at least one of these must be for supporting activities (e.g. continuing professional development). Many SAS surgeons contribute to on call services at the levels of core and specialty trainees, or on consultant rotas. The College has produced guidance on specialty doctor job plans that provides further detail on this. The level of supervision SAS surgeons receive varies depending upon their progression and seniority. At senior levels, SAS surgeons can work independently.