UK Doctors’ Titles Explained
- April 06, 2023
Getting to grips with the different titles given to doctors in the UK can be difficult, not least because they may differ from those used in other countries and there may be several titles to describe a certain role.
It is important for overseas doctors to have a working knowledge of the different doctor titles in the UK in order to understand how their experience may translate to the UK in terms of seniority of roles as well as the pay they may be entitled to.
In this blog we will be breaking down all the different names given to UK doctors (both in and out of training), clarifying the meaning of these terms to paint a clearer picture of designations in the NHS.
We will cover these titles within the following groups:
Doctors in Training
Doctors in GMC-approved training programmes have designations according to the period and specific year of their training – generally the abbreviation of the training, followed by a number.
Foundation Training
Other Titles / Designations: F1, F2, FY1, FY2, F3+, SHO, Junior Doctor, Trainee
These are doctors in a Foundation Programme, having graduated from medical school. In the UK, this is a 2-year programme equivalent to an internship.
During Year 1 of Foundation Training, doctors are referred to as F1/ FY1 and during Year 2, they are F2/ FY2.
Although Foundation Training lasts two years, doctors who may be unsure of which specialty to pursue may work in non-training jobs before applying to a training post. The naming structure for these roles is the same, depending on the years in their role.
Core Training
Other Titles / Designations: CT1, CT2, CT3, ST1, ST2, ST3, SHO, Junior Doctor, Trainee
These are doctors in Core Training who are at the initial stage of an ‘uncoupled’ training programme. An uncoupled training programme is one in which there is a break in training where doctors are required to apply to higher specialty training upon completion of core training. Core training usually lasts from two to three years.
For ‘run-through’ training programmes, doctors at ST1 would have come from Foundation Training and have automatic entry into higher specialty training through their initial application to ST1.
Specialty Training
Other Titles / Designations: ST3+, StR, SHO, Junior Doctor, Trainee
Higher specialty training generally begins at ST3/ ST4 and can go up to ST9 depending on the specialty.
The curriculum for each specialty will provide the typical training period, however this is indicative (doctors may take longer than this to complete their specialty training for any number of reasons).
SHO
The term SHO stands for Senior House Officer, less commonly known as a House Officer. This is an older term for a very junior doctor, typically equivalent to an F1/ F2, although the term can be used to describe doctors up to CT2 (up to higher specialty training).
Trainee
The term trainee can refer to any doctor in a training programme (generally from CT1 to ST9). These doctors may be referred to as residents in other countries. This can but does not generally include doctors in Foundation Training.
Doctors in non-Training Jobs
Doctors in non-training positions are often given titles which align with their training counterparts, so it’s easier to understand at what level they are practising, but there are no hard and fast rules.
SHO
Other Titles / Designations: Junior Clinical Fellow, Junior Doctor, Middle Grade
As with doctors in training, a non-training SHO would typically be equivalent to an F1/ F2, but it may be more common for a doctor not in training to have this title since an equivalent doctor in training would most likely be referred to as an F1/ F2.
Senior Clinical Fellow
Other Titles / Designations: Junior Doctor
This is a slightly confusing term which is usually for doctors at ST3+ level and generally have not completed a UK training programme. The role of these doctors often includes a combination of research and specialist clinical work.
SAS Doctor
Other Titles / Designations: Senior Doctor, Specialist
SAS stands for Staff grade, Associate Specialist, and Specialty Doctor. These doctors will have at least four years of full-time postgraduate training, two of which have been in their relevant specialty.
They are experienced and senior doctors in fixed term or permanent posts (outside a UK training programme) and can work across primary, community and inpatient care.
Many SAS doctors have made a positive choice to step into a SAS position from a traditional consultant training pathway. This could be for reasons such as geographical stability or wanting to familiarise themselves with the NHS system before working up to a consultant position.
Broader Terms
There are also several terms which may more broadly be used to describe a doctor's level.
Junior Doctor
This term can be used to describe anyone from F1 up to ST9These are qualified doctors in clinical training.
Registrar
Other Titles / Designations: SpR, Junior Doctor, Middle Grade
This is another slightly older term. Registrar or SpR (Specialty Registrars) refers to the main training grade where doctors are undertaking higher specialty training (this is the earliest you can specialise).
It can refer to both trainees and non-trainees and is generally equivalent to ST3 and above (doctors who have completed their foundation training but are still in training in a specialty area of medicine). This term is therefore commonly used to describe more senior trainees and generally aligns with its use overseas.
Senior Doctor
Other Titles / Designations: Specialist Grade, Specialty Doctor, Associate Specialist, GP, Consultant
As ‘junior doctor’ and ‘senior doctor’ are indicative of whether or not a doctor is in training, senior doctors are those able to practise independently – those working as a consultant, SAS doctor or GP.
Consultant
Other Titles / Designations: Senior Doctor
Consultants are senior doctors that have completed full medical training in a specialised area of medicine. They usually work in hospitals or community settings. They have clinical responsibilities and administrative responsibilities in managing SAS and junior doctors.
There are two types of consultants:
Substantive - These are consultant who have been appointed to the Specialist Register for their area of medicine by the GMC. These doctors will either have completed a GMC-approved training programme (CCT) or completed an application for CESR or CESR-CP. You can learn more about Specialist Registration for overseas doctors here.
Locum - These are consultants who are appointed into an equivalent consultant post but are not required to be on the Specialist Register. Locum consultants are unable to take up a permanent position (only fixed term). A locum consultant’s work tends to be more clinical, however there may also be teaching and management responsibilities involved. It is also important to distinguish between two types of locums here: Trust Locums and Agency Locums. As the name suggests, agency locums work with a private agency and will generally receive an hourly wage. Trust locums on the other hand are appointed by the NHS Trust themselves and will be on a fixed-term contract which can be renewed.
GP
GP stands for General Practitioner, and these are doctors who are responsible for the primary care of patients, covering illnesses and ailments across many specialist areas.
GPs are fully trained and are allowed to practice independently without supervision and all qualified GPs are listed on the GMC’s GP Register.
Unlike is often the case in overseas healthcare systems, general practitioners are not synonymous with doctors specialising in general medicine, so a general practitioner overseas may not necessarily have the same title in the UK.
Locum Doctor
These are doctors who are covering a role within a healthcare setting.
All doctors (aside from F1 doctors) can work as locums. Like all practising physicians, locum doctors are fully registered with, and regulated by, the GMC.
Sources
Hopefully, this article goes some way to demystify these terms and titles for international doctors interested in working in the UK. For more information including working in the NHS, doctors' benefits and salaries and how to register with the GMC, take a look through our IMG Resources library.
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This is a great opportunity for overseas Specialty Doctors who want to establish themselves in the NHS, and grow their career. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
ELIGIBILITY FOR THE ROLE:
Non-EEA:
- MRCPsych
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The post holder is expected to:
- Participate in all facets of departmental activity.
Career development at the Trust includes access to CESR support, specialty training, and opportunities for external duties. The forward-thinking Oncology department initiated SABR practices in 2021 and maintains a dynamic research team supporting various clinical trials.
Life in the area, a historic home of the Royal Navy, offers cultural richness and proximity to scenic countryside. A thriving artistic community, excellent schools, and various development projects contribute to the vibrant atmosphere. The area combines city conveniences with picturesque villages, making it an excellent place to raise a family!
This comprehensive opportunity integrates the Consultant role, SABR RT specialisation, CESR support, and coastal life in the UK, creating a fulfilling and enriching professional and personal experience.
AM I ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Recognised European Medical Degree or Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA Candidates:
- FRCR or equivalent qualification
UK Based Candidates:
- FRCR qualification
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ARE YOU ELIGIBLE?
EEA candidates:
• Recognised European Medical Degree or Specialist Qualification in Gastroenterology
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Non-EEA candidates:
• MRCP
• Extensive experience in Gastroenterology
UK-based candidates:
• Extensive experience in Gastroenterology
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This is a great job for any experienced overseas Gastroenterologists working towards CESR and specialist registration in the UK.
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The Histopathology Department is a vital healthcare component, staffed by experienced histopathologists, including consultants and junior doctors. Equipped with cutting-edge facilities, the department ensures precise diagnoses for a diverse caseload, from routine biopsies to complex cancer evaluations. Annually, the department handles a substantial number of histopathology and cytology cases, making it an ideal environment for professionals seeking career growth in histopathology.
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Apply now and get the chance to contribute to the provision of high-quality healthcare services in a dynamic and supportive environment. Experience career growth and an enriching life in an urban area with a touch of scenic beauty.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Anatomical Pathology
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Non-EEA Candidates:
- FRCPath
- Experience of working in Anatomical Pathology
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Anatomical Pathology
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
Are you a motivated Consultant in Histopathology looking for NHS jobs? Then this is the outstanding opportunity you\'ve been waiting for!
An awarding-winning integrated NHS Trust and consistently ranked among top 10 in the UK for quality care is looking for a Consultant Histopathologist to join and collaborate with a supportive team in their well-regarded Histopathology Department. They handle a caseload of 20,000 requests annually, and they have a modern and well-equipped facilities. The Department is staffed by a dedicated team of consultants and junior doctors, ensuring comprehensive coverage for a diverse workload.
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The successful candidate is expected to:
- Provide advice and support to clinical colleagues, and to be available to discuss histological findings.
- Participate in multidisciplinary clinical care, to attend multidisciplinary team meetings and to assume the role of “Lead Pathologist” in the Cancer Unit Teams for designated sites.
As you contribute to multidisciplinary clinical care and lead in Cancer Unit Teams, enjoy a balanced work/life experience in the tranquil Yorkshire Dales. Furthering your career, the Trust actively supports research and development, participating in national programs and clinical trials.
Working for this NHS Trust means that you will be relocating in an area that offers a mix of housing options, including traditional houses and newer developments. The availability and affordability of housing can vary, so it\'s recommended to explore local estate agents or online platforms for current listings. In addition, it is well-connected by public transportation.
This role is an excellent opportunity for experienced international histopathologists working towards CESR and specialist registration in the UK.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
-
Experience of working in Histopathology (essential)
Non-EEA Candidates:
-
FRCPath or PLAB (essential)
-
Experience of working for Histopathology (essential)
UK based applicants
-
Experience of working in Histopathology (essential)