Speciality Doctor

North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust; Carlisle; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Consultant Histopathologist to join their dedicated team in Carlisle. This role involves reporting on a diverse range of histology and cytology cases, ensuring high-quality diagnostic services in a supportive and collaborative environment. The laboratory is well-equipped and accredited, offering a friendly atmosphere that values teamwork and quality care. With a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, this organization strives to provide exceptional healthcare services to the community. If you are passionate about histopathology and want to make a difference, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• Experience in histopathology and cytology diagnostics.
• Knowledge of immunohistochemistry techniques and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Reporting of diagnostic histology and cytology cases.
• Managing workload and supporting consultants in a team environment.

Skills

Histopathology

Cytology

Immunohistochemistry

Diagnostic Reporting

Education

Medical Degree

Specialization in Pathology

Tools

Telepath Computer System

Cerner LIMS

Job description

The Histopathology Services of North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust is based at the Cumberland Infirmary site. The laboratory processes approximately 21,997 histology requests per annum and 1,254 non-gynaecological cytology requests, including some FNA work.

The laboratory is UKAS ISO 15189 accredited and HTA licenced to conduct post mortems and store bodies at the Cumberland Infirmary, and a satellite licence as a body store at West Cumberland Hospital.

There are currently 5.8 WTE Consultant Histopathologists in post at Carlisle, with an establishment for 7.0 WTE posts. There is also a Specialty Doctor post. We have a very friendly and happy working environment, with a strong team approach to making the service successful. The histopathology service is well regarded across the Trust despite working below full consultant capacity for several years. We provide support to each consultant individually to help manage their workload. Excess work is outsourced.

Histology

Reporting of diagnostic histology cases

In 2023 a total of 21,997 histology requests were received. The normal full range of diagnostic material is processed. Neuropathology is not performed. Histology duties are undertaken on a daily rota.

Examples of annual workload 2023 for some specimen types (not exhaustive):

1. Endoscopic biopsies: 5,277
2. Colectomies: 145
3. Skin: 6,657
4. Breast Cores: 1,097
5. Breast resections: 327
6. Cervical biopsies and Cervical LLetz: 1,350
7. Liver biopsies: 48
8. Renal biopsies: 66

Fully automated immunohistochemistry is provided with a comprehensive range of routine antibodies.

Rapid biopsy processing can be undertaken using a rapid hybrid tissue processor.

The laboratory is served by the Telepath computer system with links across the Trust and NHS networks. The Trust is currently working collaboratively with other laboratories in the North-East to replace our current LIMS with Cerner LIMS, which is anticipated to occur during 2023.

85% of requests are from hospital cases (Cumberland Infirmary and West Cumberland Hospital), 15% from General Practitioners.

Non-Gynaecological Cytology

In 2023 a total of 1,254 non-gynae cytology requests were received. Specimens cover the normal range expected. 95% of requests are generated from hospital wards and clinics. FNAs are taken by surgeons/radiologists. Non-gynaecological cytology is distributed by daily rota.

At NCIC, we have an ambition to deliver outstanding healthcare services to the population of North Cumbria. The Trust is committed to creating a centre of excellence in providing rural and remote healthcare and provides a wide range of community and acute services throughout our county.

Our 5 key principles demonstrate our belief in the delivery of ‘safe, high quality care every time':

1. Being a clinically led organisation
2. Quality and safety at the heart of our Trust
3. A positive patient experience every time
4. A great place to work
5. Managing our money well

As an organisation we are serious about supporting a diverse workforce that reflects our local community and are very much focused on being an inclusive and compassionate place to work.

Across the North East and North Cumbria we are working together to deliver our ambition to be the greenest region in England by 2030. All staff are expected to support sustainability.

Please review the attached job description for further information and the main responsibilities for this role.