SAS Doctors’ Pay across the NHS

  • September 25, 2023
 

For international doctors looking to work in the UK, it is important to understand the salary you will be offered with your NHS job and how this can be different depending on the country you are working in within the UK.  

The NHS follow pay guidelines that are used to fairly and uniformly determine consultant pay, however these do differ across countries in the UK.  

What is an SAS doctor?

SAS stands for Staff grade, Associate Specialist, and Specialty Doctor. They 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 training pathway). 

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. 

SAS doctors maintain their skills through the CPD system and there are routes, through gaining CESR (Specialist Registration) or applying for a training post, for SAS doctors to become consultants if they wish to. 

Basic Pay

Specialist Grades and Specialty Doctors in England and the other home countries have their own contracts in place for senior doctors. These contracts are based on a full-time work commitment of 10 programmed activities (PAs) per week, each having a time-tabled value of four hours.  

The basic pay thresholds in the UK are shown below: 

England

SAS doctors currently earn a basic rate of between £52,530 and £82,400 as Specialty Doctors and from £83,945 to £95,275 as Specialist Grade doctors in England. 

Specialty Doctor 

Years of experience 

Basic Salary 

0 (min) 

£52,530

£60,519

£67,465

£74,675

10 

11 

12 

£82,400

13 

14 

15 

16 

17 

 

Associate Specialist / Specialist Grade 

Years of experience 

Basic Salary 

0 (min) 

£83,945

£87,000

£95,275

The most recent full pay circular for England can be found here

Scotland

SAS doctors currently earn a basic rate of between £45,193 and £84,272 as Specialty Doctors and from £63,361 to £103,074 as Associate Specialists in Scotland.

Specialty Doctor 

Years of experience 

Basic Salary 

0 (min) 

£45,193 

£49,057 

£54,080 

£56,772 

£60,651 

Threshold 1 

£64,516 

£68,466 

£72,418 

10 

Threshold 2 

11 

£76,370 

12 

13 

14 

£80,321 

15 

16 

17 

£84,272 

 

Associate Specialist 

Years of experience 

Basic Salary 

0 (min) 

£63,361 

£68,454 

£73,546 

£80,271 

£86,099 

Threshold 1 

£88,517 

£91,673 

£93,880 

10 

Threshold 2 

11 

£96,945 

12 

13 

14 

£100,008 

15 

16 

17 

£103,074 

The most recent full pay circular for Scotland can be found here

Wales

SAS doctors currently earn a basic rate of between £51,765 and £81,200 as Specialty Doctors and from £82,722 to £93,887 as Specialists in Wales.

Specialty Doctor 

Years of experience 

Basic Salary 

£51,765

£59,637

£66,482

10 

£73,587 

11 

12 

13 

£81,200

14 

15 

16 

17 

18 

 

Specialist 

Years of experience 

Basic Salary 

£82,722

£88,305

£93,887

The most recent full pay circular for Wales can be found here

Northern Ireland

SAS doctors currently earn a basic rate of between £51,000 and £80,000 as Specialty Doctors and from £81,500 to £92,500 as Associate Specialists in Northern Ireland.

Specialty Doctor

Years of experience 

Basic Salary 

Pay Point

0

 

£51,000

 

1

 

1

2

3

 

£58,756

 

2

4

5

6

 

£65,500 

3

7

8

9

 

£72,500

4

10

11

12

 

£80,000

5 - top

13

14

15

16

17

 

Specialty Doctor

Years of experience 

Basic Salary 

Pay Point

1

 

£81,500

 

1

 

2

3

4

 

£87,000

 

2

5

6

7

£92,500 

3 (top)

 

The most recent full pay circular for Northern Ireland can be found here

Job Planning and Programmed Activities

As part of your contract, your job plan will be created in partnership with your new NHS employer. This is an annual agreement that sets out your duties, responsibilities and objectives for the length of your contract. 

There are four basic categories of contractual work which will be included in your job plan: direct clinical care (DCC), supporting professional activities (SPAs), additional responsibilities and external duties. 

There are ways that consultants will be able to earn more than the basic rates above and these can include additional rotas and PAs. This will also be discussed in the creation of your job plan. 

Sources

https://www.nhsemployers.org/system/files/2023-02/Pay%20and%20Conditions%20Circular%20%28MD%29%202-2023.pdf 

https://www.sehd.scot.nhs.uk/pcs/PCS2022(DD)01.pdf 

https://www.nhs.wales/files/pc-resources/042023-md-circular/ 

https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-hsc-tc8-03-2022.PDF 


Getting started

NHS Trusts can interpret the NHS consultant pay scales above and an international doctor’s experience in different ways, so use this blog as a guideline for understanding what you may be eligible for when coming to work in the NHS. 

Your IMG Consultant is happy to assist with any negotiations related to your job plan to ensure your experience is taken into account. 

For more information on NHS doctor benefits and pay arrangements in the UK, take a look at our IMG Resources library. 

            

 

Relevant Jobs

52,530 - 82,400

A new role as Specialty Doctor in inpatient child and adolescent mental health service at a Trust rated  \"Outstanding\" by the CQC has just opened for both UK based and overseas candidates. Based in a city just north of London the trust supports doctors looking to build experience before entering ST4 or to support with CESR applications. 

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
  • Experience in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
EEA: 
  • Specialist certification in Psychiatry (desirable)
  • Experience in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
UK based: 
  • Experience in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
£93,666-£126,281

An exciting NHS job opportunity is open for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist specializing in Lung & Breast Cancer at an NHS Trust that has been rated \"good\" over all by the CQC. This NHS Trust has undergone significant development, emphasizing patient and community care excellence. With £58 million in national funding, the Trust boasts a University Hospital status, prioritizing research, education, and training. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) lauds the Trust\'s outstanding performance, with 992 beds and 92% patient recommendation, serving a population of 675,000.

This position aims to strengthen the Oncology team, focusing on lung cancer care and Stereotactic Ablative Body Radiotherapy (SABR). Situated at the dynamic centre within the \"good\"-rated trust, the role contributes to systemic treatment advancements and ongoing research. The Oncology Department at the Combined Haematology Oncology Centre caters to 1-1.5 million residents. Designated as a Cancer Centre since 1996, the Centre collaborates with neighboring hospitals, fostering a multidisciplinary approach. The purpose-built Cancer Centre, equipped with advanced imaging, provides nurse-led services, chemotherapy units, and home-delivered immunotherapy.

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

This is a great opportunity for any experienced consultant clinical oncologist working towards CESR in Clinical oncology specialist registration in the UK.

88,364 - 119,133

Want to be a part of a supportive and dynamic team as a Consultant in Gastroenterology?

Embrace this exciting chance to be part of a healthcare environment where your expertise will be valued and your contributions deeply appreciated. An excellent NHS Foundation Trust invites talented and dedicated medical professionals to seize an outstanding opportunity in Gastroenterology at one of their hospitals. As a renowned University teaching hospital, the trust places a strong emphasis on Medical and Dental Education, ensuring that all staff receive exceptional training and patients benefit from top-notch care.

Joining their innovative and dynamic Gastroenterology Department promises a rewarding career filled with diverse cases and comprehensive support from a team of skilled healthcare professionals. As a valued member of the thriving Gastroenterology team, you will have ample career development opportunities. Overseas doctors can work towards completing their CESR and explore sub-specialty areas of interest, further expanding their professional horizons. Moreover, there are exciting opportunities to engage in teaching and supervision of undergraduate medical students, fostering the next generation of medical professionals.

In the are where the Trust is situated, you will discover a vibrant community with a rich historical heritage and a welcoming atmosphere. The city\'s picturesque setting, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District and the coastline, provides a serene backdrop for both work and leisure. The area boasts a renowned university, adding an intellectual and creative dimension to the city\'s spirit. The constant influx of students fosters a commitment to learning and research, ensuring you have access to cutting-edge medical advancements and resources to further enhance your expertise.

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE?

EEA candidates: 
•    Recognised European Medical Degree or Specialist Qualification in Gastroenterology
•    Extensive experience in Gastroenterology
  
Non-EEA candidates: 
•    MRCP 
•    Extensive experience in Gastroenterology

UK-based candidates: 
•    Extensive experience in Gastroenterology
•    Within 6-months of CESR or CCT in Gastroenterology

This is a great job for any experienced overseas Gastroenterologists working towards CESR and specialist registration in the UK.

An excellent NHS Trust is currently seeking Consultant Histopathologists for a locum position. This role offers the chance to work alongside a team of ten pathologists within one of the Eastern Region\'s leading healthcare organizations. The Trust is known for its comprehensive acute services. The position is suitable for candidates with EEA specialization or experienced IMGs pursuing CESR.

The NHS Trust is a district general hospital trust comprising three hospitals. It serves the communities of three towns, consistently achieving a commendable CQC rating for its commitment to high-quality healthcare services.

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.

The hospital is situated in a town that offers both urban and rural settings within reach. The area features diverse schooling options and excellent transportation links, including rail services to London, easy access to major cities, and airports. Housing choices range from modern apartments to family-friendly homes, making it an appealing destination for medical professionals and families alike.

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
  • Specialist European Qualification in Anatomical Pathology

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.

The department is part of an NHS Trust that serves a population of 250,000 people. Their main hospital provides a range of services including critical care, surgery, diagnostics, obstetrics, mental health and telemedicine. The hospital has undergone significant enhancements, featuring a cutting-edge Emergency Department and a £6 million development for the Acute Medical Unit and Pathology Laboratory. 

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)

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