Read Dr Rob Fleming’s Blog on NHS Employers website.
The article “The Importance of Advocacy: Introducing the SAS Advocate Role,” authored by Dr Rob Fleming, emphasises the critical need for dedicated support for Specialty and Associate Specialist (SAS) doctors within the NHS. Despite numerous publications over the past decade aimed at enhancing the roles and opportunities for SAS doctors, tangible changes have often been minimal.
To address this, the 2021 SAS contract reform introduced the SAS advocate role, designed to complement existing support structures like SAS tutors and trust local negotiating committee representatives. The primary objective of the SAS advocate is to promote the health and well-being of SAS doctors, tackling issues such as career development, autonomous working, and recognition.
Employers who appoint SAS advocates demonstrate a commitment to creating an environment where SAS doctors can thrive, which can lead to improved recruitment, retention, and overall job satisfaction. The presence of an SAS advocate fosters increased engagement and a sense of belonging among SAS doctors, contributing to reduced attrition and enhanced productivity.
Furthermore, the establishment of a network of SAS advocates facilitates the sharing of best practices across different organizations, promoting a more supportive and cohesive approach to addressing the challenges faced by SAS doctors.
In summary, the introduction of the SAS advocate role represents a strategic initiative to ensure that the rhetoric surrounding support for SAS doctors is matched by reality, leading to meaningful improvements in their professional lives and, by extension, patient care.
For more detailed information, you can read the full article here: NHS Employers
About Dr Rob Fleming
Dr. Rob Fleming is a Specialist Anaesthetist based in the East Midlands, renowned for his significant contributions to the medical community, particularly within the Specialist, Associate Specialist, and Specialty (SAS) doctor cohort. His career is marked by clinical excellence, educational initiatives, and robust advocacy for SAS doctors across the UK.
Professional Journey and Clinical Expertise
Dr. Fleming’s clinical interests encompass obstetric and regional anaesthesia. He has been a Specialty Doctor (SAS) Anaesthetist for over a decade, during which he has developed substantial expertise in his areas of specialization. Royal College of Anaesthetists
Advocacy and Leadership in the SAS Community
A founding member of the SAS Collective, Dr. Fleming has been instrumental in advocating for the professional development and recognition of SAS doctors. The SAS Collective is dedicated to enhancing career opportunities and promoting the value of SAS roles within the healthcare system. SAS Collective
Dr. Fleming’s leadership extends to his role as an elected board member and Honorary Membership Secretary of the Association of Anaesthetists. He has also served as Chair of its SAS Committee, where he has been pivotal in representing and advancing the interests of SAS doctors. Royal College of Anaesthetists
Contributions to the Royal College of Anaesthetists (RCoA)
Within the RCoA, Dr. Fleming holds the position of Honorary Membership Secretary on the National Clinical Leaders in Anaesthesia Executive Committee. This committee promotes information sharing and best practices among clinical directors in UK NHS departments of anaesthesia, intensive care medicine, and pain management. Royal College of Anaesthetists
Publications and Thought Leadership
Dr. Fleming has authored several insightful articles focusing on the career pathways and professional development of SAS doctors. Notable publications include:
“Becoming a Specialist – A SAS Perspective”: In this article, Dr. Fleming shares his journey from a specialty doctor to a specialist, offering encouragement to employers to recruit and support specialty doctors. NHS Employers
“Supporting Reality to Match the Rhetoric: Introducing the SAS Six”: Co-authored by Dr. Fleming, this piece introduces the SAS Six campaign, aimed at supporting SAS doctors in their career development and leadership aspirations. NHS Employers
Educational Initiatives and Mentorship
Dr. Fleming is passionate about education and mentorship. He has served as an Advanced Life Support (ALS) instructor, contributing to numerous courses, and has played a significant role in undergraduate education within his department. His commitment to teaching extends to organizing anaesthesia modules for medical students and participating in multidisciplinary educational events in obstetrics. NHS Employers
Role in the SAS Advocate Program
Recognizing the importance of advocacy, Dr. Fleming has been involved in promoting the SAS Advocate role, a strategic position introduced to support the health and well-being of the SAS workforce. This role addresses themes such as career development, autonomous working, and recognition, aiming to create an environment where SAS doctors can thrive. NHS Employers
Endorsements and Collaborations
Under Dr. Fleming’s leadership, the SAS Collective has garnered endorsements from prominent organizations, including the Medical Protection Society and the Royal College of Physicians. These collaborations underscore the impact of his advocacy work in improving the careers and retention of SAS and locally employed doctors across the UK. Medical Protection
Dr. Rob Fleming’s career exemplifies dedication to clinical excellence, education, and the advancement of SAS doctors within the NHS. His leadership and advocacy continue to influence positive changes, ensuring that alternative career pathways in medicine receive the recognition and support they deserve.
