HSE Ireland - Doctor Pay Scales Explained
- September 13, 2024
If you're an international doctor considering a career in Ireland, it's essential to understand the HSE doctor pay scales. For overseas doctors, the pay structure within Ireland's Health Service Executive (HSE) can appear complex at first, but knowing how it works is key to planning your move.
Doctors working for the HSE in Ireland benefit from competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits. So, for international medical graduates, understanding the various pay scales, from junior doctors to consultants, is crucial in making informed career decisions.
In this guide, we’ll break down the different HSE pay grades and explain how they relate to doctor salaries in Ireland, so you can better understand your earning potential as a doctor within the Irish healthcare system.
What We’ll Cover:
- Junior Doctor Pay (Interns and SHOs)
- Registrar Salary
- Consultant Pay
- How Pay Scales Work in the HSE
- Additional Pay, Benefits, and Overtime
- Comparing HSE Ireland to the NHS in the UK
Skip to the relevant section if you know what you're looking for!
Junior Doctor Pay in Ireland
Junior doctors, often called interns or Senior House Officers (SHOs), start their careers with a salary ranging from €43,766 to €70,543, depending on experience and additional responsibilities.
- Foundation Year (Intern): Starting salary of around €43,766
- Senior House Officer (SHO): €51,578 to €70,543
As a junior doctor, you are also compensated for any additional hours worked, including weekend shifts, on-call duties, and night shifts. These enhancements ensure that junior doctors are fairly compensated for the demanding nature of their work.
Registrar Pay in the HSE
Registrars, who are often mid-career doctors undergoing specialty training, can expect to earn between €65,554 and €77,197 annually. Registrars play a critical role in the hospital setting, often supervising junior doctors and making more autonomous medical decisions.
- Basic salary for registrars: starts at €65,554 to €77,197
- With overtime, on-call, and weekend shifts, registrars can earn significantly more.
Consultant Pay in Ireland
Consultants are the most senior doctors in the HSE, and their salaries reflect their high level of responsibility and expertise. A consultant’s salary can range from €222,215 to €266,925.
- Starting salary: Around €222,215. to €266,925
- Consultants with additional responsibilities, such as management roles or educational duties, can earn significantly more.
Consultants may also receive additional pay for on-call duties and overtime work. Furthermore, some consultants may supplement their income by working in private practice, further boosting their overall earnings.
How Do HSE Pay Scales Work?
Several factors influence how you are placed on the HSE pay scale:
- Job Title: Your role, whether you're a junior doctor, registrar, senior registrar, or consultant, determines your starting point on the scale.
- Experience: More years of experience result in higher pay, regardless of whether this experience was gained in Ireland or abroad.
- Specialty: Some medical specialties, such as cardiology or oncology, may offer higher salaries due to their demand and complexity.
- Location: Pay rates can vary slightly depending on whether you work in a city hospital or a more rural setting.
Additional Pay, Benefits, and Overtime
Doctors in the HSE are entitled to a range of benefits, including:
- Overtime pay for working beyond regular hours.
- On-call allowances for being available outside of your standard working hours.
- Weekend and night shift allowances to compensate for unsociable working hours.
- Continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities.
- Access to a pension scheme, offering long-term financial security.
How HSE Pay Compares to the NHS in the UK
Many international doctors consider working in both the NHS (UK) and HSE Ireland. While both offer competitive pay, HSE doctor salaries tend to be higher at all levels compared to the NHS.
For example, an FY1 doctor in the NHS earns around £32,398, while an equivalent intern in Ireland starts at approximately €43,766. Pay scales for consultants and more senior roles are also higher when comparing the two systems, however both offer opportunities for additional pay based on experience and extra responsibilities.
Where Do You Fit on the HSE Pay Scale?
When considering where you fit on the HSE pay scale, there are key factors to keep in mind:
- Job Title: Your job title, such as junior doctor, registrar, or consultant, dictates your pay bracket.
- Experience: Years of experience in your specialty will determine your progression through the pay scale.
- Hours Worked: The more on-call hours, night shifts, and weekend work you do, the more you can expect to earn beyond your base salary.
Understanding the HSE doctor pay scales will help you make informed decisions about your career in Ireland. If you need further assistance or have any questions about pay negotiation, our IMG connect consultants are here to guide you through the process and ensure you receive the best possible offer.
Relevant Jobs
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant in Emergency Medicine to join a UK-based NHS Trust. This role provides CESR Portfolio Pathway support, and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
What is the NHS Trust like?
This NHS Trust provides high-quality hospital and community care to its local population and visitors. The Trust operates multiple acute and community hospitals across the region, offering a comprehensive range of medical services. The Trust has received high ratings from the Care Quality Commission for its care and effectiveness. The Emergency Departments within the Trust provide round-the-clock services, backed by a full range of diagnostic and therapy options.
What is the department & team like?
The Emergency Medicine department is a vital part of the Trust’s Urgent Care Division. The department is well-equipped with modern facilities, including advanced radiology services and electronic health record systems. The team is composed of experienced consultants, doctors, and nursing staff, providing continuous coverage and comprehensive care. The department also includes specialized teams for psychiatric and rehabilitative care, ensuring holistic treatment for all patients.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within Emergency Medicine, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support and access to specialty training. The department supports the development of sub-specialist interests and offers opportunities for research, teaching, and clinical governance. The role is designed to support professional growth and career progression.
What is area like?
This region in the UK offers a compelling lifestyle for international doctors and their families. With affordable living costs, beautiful natural surroundings, and excellent educational institutions, it is an ideal location for relocation. The area is well-connected, with easy access to major cities, and offers a rich cultural experience with a diverse population and various recreational activities.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Emergency Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCEM UK
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
WHAT IS THE NHS TRUST LIKE?
This is one of the country’s top performing NHS foundation trusts, looking after the wellbeing of around half a million people. Hospital services are provided from 4 hospitals, with care also provided in people’s homes and other community facilities. They are also planning to rebuild a nearby existing community hospital, replacing the old hospital with an integrated health and social care facility. They have also opened a state-of-the-art NHS centre to bring together outpatient and diagnostic services, as well as primary care, under one roof. The Trust has received significant recognition including:
- Being named among the 40 best performing NHS organisations in CHKS Top Hospitals programme 2015 for the eighth consecutive year
- Rated 6th in the country for cancer patient experience (Macmillan)
- Named ‘overall best trust’ at Patient Experience Network National Awards 2014
- 11th in country in national A&E patient survey (CQC)
- Named ‘Provider Trust of the Year’ at the HSJ awards 2013
- Special recognition award at the national Patient Safety Congress
- Patient Safety Award for pharmacist prescribing (UK Clinical Pharmacy Association)
- British Medical Journal’s (BMJ) patient safety award for the trust’s Hip Quality
- Improvement Programme
In March 2015, they were also chosen as a ‘vanguard’ site by NHS England – one of eight sites in the country to be tasked with taking a national lead on transforming care for patients and in July 2015, Jeremy Hunt, the health secretary, named the trust as an NHS organisation providing the very best standard of seven-day services for our patients, a standard to which other NHS trusts should aspire. The trust offers a wide range of specialties with some of the largest specialist departments in the region, including the largest trauma and orthopaedics service, one of the largest cardiology departments and one of the largest units in the region for colorectal surgery services.
WHAT IS THE PATHOLOGY DEPARTMENT LIKE?
The department has full UKAS ISO 15189 accreditation. It\'s Histopathology and Cytopathology services are centralised into a custom-built laboratory in April 2003, which has accommodation for eight consultants plus specialist registrars. There is a well-equipped library and teaching suite within the department. Fully automated immunohistochemistry is provided with a comprehensive range of routine antibodies available at the Trust. The laboratories are served by the Telepath computer system with links across the Trust and NHS networks. PathoSys is used for reporting breast cores and resection specimens, colorectal cancer specimens, bowel cancer screening specimens, cervical punch and loop biopsies and bronchial biopsies and in line with recent advances in the field of histopathology, the department has introduced and have recently gone live with skin
reporting. The team consists of five consultant Histopathologists, two Specialty Doctors, plus up to two specialist registrars on rotation from a nearby infirmary who cover histopathology and cytology on a rota basis. The non-gynae cytology plus the surgical histology workload will be shared equally.
WHAT CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE?
The Trust and Histopathology team are dedicated to supporting their doctors\' career development through devising a personal development plan, the post holder will be required to agree a programme of continuing professional development which meets his/her and service provision requirements. Regular MDT meetings are held for lung, colorectal, breast and upper GI. High definition videoconferencing and slide projection facilities are available in the MDT suites on the North Tyneside and Wansbeck sites and there will also be opportunity for the development of teaching experience. Undergraduate students from the affiliated University are regularly attached to clinical teams within the Trust and the new appointee would be expected to undertake teaching at an undergraduate level throughout the Trust, including the assessment of clinical medical students and examining from time to time.
They would also be expected to to participate in clinical audit activities (personal, departmental and inter-departmental) including clinical audit meetings. The post holder will have a reflective approach to their own practice with an ability to acknowledge poor behaviour and act upon feedback sought from others during the Trusts 360o appraisal.
The Trust has also puts emphasis on their commitment to the development of leadership skills.
LIFE IN THE REGION:
The region offers both the opportunity for scenery but also city living. Firstly, there is easy accessibility to one of the finest coasts in Britain, with unspoilt sandy beaches and wild rocky headlands, as well as the National Park with its 400 square miles of wooded valleys and open moorland rich in wildlife. The North Pennines are an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the wildest and least populated region of high moorland in England. Sailing, golf, fishing, riding, walking, cycling, rock climbing, gliding and watersport facilities abound and there are most types of sporting and leisure pursuits including major national football, rugby, cricket, athletics and horse racing venues within easy reach.
Then, the vibrant and modern city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne is the major educational, cultural and business centre for the North East of England and offers a combination of lively bars, top-rated nightclubs and many musical and theatrical attractions. Eldon Square is an excellent shopping centre in the City and for a complete shopping experience, the Metro Centre in Gateshead boasts over 360 shops and services all under one roof. A magnificent new Concert Hall has been constructed on the opposite side of the river to the Quayside Development.
A neighbouring pleasant market town boasts a race course, three golf courses, an historic abbey and a country park, is located 20 miles west of Newcastle upon-Tyne. Situated in the Tyne Valley, Hexham is the focal point for the rural Tynedale District, the largest local authority district in England and one of the most consistently beautiful. The town enjoys good road and public transport links to Newcastle. To the west of Hexham is the City of Carlisle and the M6. The town is also particularly well placed for access to the Lake District.
For families, local education opportunities are very good, with a number of league-leading junior, senior and sixth form schools and colleges in both the private and public sector. Housing is excellent with a wide range of affordable properties both period and modern. As a result of the proximity to the National Park, its historic centre and relative prosperity, this area is now one of the most popular residential locations in North East England with reasonable house prices. The region also has an excellent road, rail and metro network, and the busy ports have regular sailings to the continent. From Newcastle International Airport, flights are available to most national and international destinations.
AM I ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA candidates:
- Recognised European Medical Degree or Specialist Qualification in Histopathology
- Full and specialist registration (and with a license to practice) with the General Medical Council or be eligible for registration within six months of interview
- Experience in postmortem, and prostate and skin pathology
Non-EEA candidates:
- FRCPath
- Full and specialist registration (and with a license to practice) with the General Medical Council or be eligible for registration within six months of interview
- Experience in postmortem, and prostate and skin pathology
UK-based candidates:
- Within 6-months of CESR or CCT in Histopathology
- Experience in postmortem, and prostate and skin pathology
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Locum Consultant Histopathology to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant working in an established Histopathology department in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support, and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
The NHS Trust
This NHS Trust is a modern and progressive healthcare organization located in the UK. The Trust provides a wide range of acute and general hospital services, serving a large and diverse population. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to providing the highest quality care, the Trust is dedicated to supporting the professional growth of its staff. The Trust has a strong focus on patient-centered care and works closely with the community to ensure the delivery of comprehensive health services. As an NHS Trust, it offers a dynamic and supportive environment, making it an ideal place for doctors looking to develop their careers within the NHS.
The Trust is also involved in various research initiatives and collaborates with academic institutions, further enhancing its reputation as a leader in healthcare. This is an excellent NHS job opportunity for those interested in joining a forward-thinking organization committed to clinical excellence.
The Department & Team
The Histopathology Department at this NHS Trust is a well-established and highly regarded unit within the organization. The department is equipped with the latest diagnostic technologies, enabling the delivery of high-quality pathology services. The team is composed of experienced consultants, specialty doctors, and a skilled support staff, all working collaboratively to provide accurate and timely diagnostic services. The department plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of various medical conditions, making it an integral part of the hospital’s operations.
The team is known for its supportive and inclusive environment, which encourages continuous learning and professional development. Regular multidisciplinary meetings and case discussions are held to ensure the highest standards of patient care. This NHS job offers an excellent opportunity for doctors to join a team that values clinical excellence and is committed to providing the best possible outcomes for patients.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within Histopathology, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interest. The Histopathology Department at this NHS Trust is dedicated to the continuous professional development of its staff. Doctors joining the department will have access to a wide range of educational resources, including regular training sessions, workshops, and seminars. The department also encourages participation in research activities and offers support for those interested in pursuing academic qualifications.
Additionally, there are opportunities to attend national and international conferences, further enhancing the learning experience. The Trust’s commitment to professional development ensures that doctors are well-equipped to achieve their career goals while contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge.
Location
This area in the UK is an excellent place for international doctors to relocate to, offering a high quality of life for both individuals and families. The region is known for its affordable cost of living compared to other parts of the UK, making it an attractive option for those looking to settle in the country. Safety is a top priority, with the area boasting low crime rates and a friendly community atmosphere. The region is home to a variety of schools, both public and private, that provide excellent educational opportunities for children. There are numerous things to do, from exploring beautiful parks and natural areas to enjoying a vibrant arts and culture scene.
The area also benefits from excellent transport connections, with easy access to major cities via road and rail. Additionally, the region is diverse and multicultural, making it a welcoming place for people from all backgrounds.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Histopathology
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Histopathology
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- FRCPath
- Experience in Histopathology
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant in Acute Medicine in the UK. This role is perfect for international doctors or UK-based professionals looking to advance their careers in acute care working in a high pace teaching hospital environment.
What is the NHS Trust like?
This NHS Trust provides care for a diverse population of over 1 million people across three main hospital sites. It offers a wide range of medical services, including acute medicine, emergency care, and specialist services. The Trust is known for its dedication to clinical research and innovation, with an active R&D department that regularly participates in groundbreaking studies.
The Trust prides itself on being a progressive employer, supporting staff through a variety of professional development programs. It fosters a collaborative environment where doctors can work alongside highly skilled teams. With a focus on delivering high-quality patient care, the Trust is an ideal place for healthcare professionals to grow and succeed in their careers.
The Acute Medicine Department & Team
The Acute Medicine Department operates a state-of-the-art acute medical short-stay ward, designed to manage high patient volumes while delivering outstanding care. The department is supported by a multidisciplinary team, including consultants, junior doctors, nurses, and advanced nurse practitioners. With a patient intake of approximately 60 per day, the department provides a fast-paced, challenging environment where you will gain extensive experience in treating a variety of acute medical conditions.
This role also involves working closely with the Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) unit and the Emergency Department (ED), both of which are critical to the acute care service. The department values teamwork and offers a supportive, educational environment for doctors looking to further their careers.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers excellent professional development opportunities, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, making it ideal for international doctors aiming to achieve Consultant status. You will have access to a range of specialty training options and the opportunity to develop a sub-specialist interest within acute medicine.
The Trust is committed to supporting your ongoing development through a comprehensive training program, mentorship, and involvement in innovative research projects. This role provides a solid foundation for career progression, whether you\'re new to the UK or looking to advance within the NHS.
Location
The hospital is located in an area with excellent transport links to London’s city center, major cultural sites, and international airports. It offers a mix of urban and suburban living, making it a great choice for families and professionals. The local area has affordable housing, top-rated schools, and a vibrant, diverse community.
With its proximity to major transport hubs, the area offers easy access to the rest of the UK and Europe, making it ideal for international doctors relocating with their families. The local area also offers plenty of recreational and cultural activities, making it an attractive place to live and work.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- NHS experience in Acute Medicine
- MRCP UK or equivalent
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Acute Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP UK
- Experience in Acute Medicine or similar
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant/Specialist in Acute Medicine to join a leading NHS Trust in the UK. This role offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and is open to international medical graduates (IMGs).
About the NHS Trust
This NHS Trust is a prominent healthcare provider in the UK, serving a substantial population through its network of hospitals and community services. Known for its commitment to high-quality care, the Trust operates across multiple sites, offering a range of specialties including Acute Medicine, Maternity, Surgery, and Intensive Care. With a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, the Trust emphasizes innovation, best practices, and patient-centered care. The core values of kindness, courage, and respect guide its mission, creating a supportive and dynamic environment for medical professionals to advance their careers.
The Acute Medicine Department & Team
The Acute Medicine Department is a critical component of this NHS Trust, focusing on providing high-quality care for patients admitted through the Emergency Department and General Practice. The department is expanding and includes a team of experienced Acute Care Physicians who manage a high volume of admissions daily. The department features a multidisciplinary team, including consultants, specialty doctors, trainees, and Advanced Clinical Practitioners, all working together to ensure comprehensive and continuous patient care. This role provides an opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to enhancing acute care services and patient outcomes.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within Acute Medicine, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The Trust is committed to supporting your professional growth through structured training programs, mentorship, and exposure to advanced medical practices. Whether you seek to deepen your expertise in acute care or explore sub-specialist areas, this role offers robust support for career advancement and development.
Living in the UK
Relocating to this region of the UK offers international doctors and their families a high quality of life. The area features a low cost of living, excellent educational facilities, and a safe, welcoming environment. With beautiful natural landscapes, including rolling hills and coastal regions, the area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Cultural and recreational activities are plentiful, and the region benefits from strong transport links to major cities, combining the charm of rural living with the conveniences of urban life.
??????Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Acute Medicine
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Acute Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP
- Experience in Acute Medicine