Specialty Doctor in Palliative care

Working collaboratively with other members of the multidisciplinary team (MDT): MDT working is a key component of working in the department. The post holder will work closely with the palliative care Clinical Nurse Specialists, with the End of Life Care Nurses, and with any other members of the MDT.

Reviewing patients referred to the Specialist Palliative Care Team (SPCT) on any ward (including ED) within Luton & Dunstable Hospital (LDH). This will include new patient assessments and reviews of patients on the team's caseload.

As needed, reviewing patients alone or with another member of the SPCT.

Electronic prescribing of medications for symptom management for patients on the SPCT caseload.

Leading and/or attending family meetings as required.

Managing complex communication including breaking bad news, advance care planning, managing the dying phase and more.

Promptly escalating and/or highlighting the need for senior support and/or review for any of the patients on the SPCT caseload.

Liaising with medical and surgical teams within LDH. This could include discussing patients on the SPCT caseload, discussing new or potential referrals, and providing SPC advice.

It would be suitable for doctors who are fully registered with a license to practice, and who have at least 2 years clinical experience post-registration. Essential and desirable criteria are listed under 'person specifications' below.

This post is particularly suitable for doctors who have an interest in any of the following:

Pursuing a career in Palliative Medicine and/or Frailty and/or Elderly Care

Working across the interface between hospital and community care

Acquiring excellent advanced communication skills

Working in a dynamic environment

Working within a multi-disciplinary team

Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust provides hospital services to a growing population of around 700,000 people living across Bedfordshire and the surrounding areas across two busy hospital sites in Bedford and Luton. Both hospital sites offer key services such as A&E, Obstetrics-led Maternity and Paediatrics. You will be joining a friendly, high performing Trust committed to ensuring the health and wellbeing of staff. As one of the largest NHS Trusts in our region you will have access to a programme of high quality training and development to help you grow your career. The Trust continues to be committed to delivering the best patient care using the best clinical knowledge and technology.