Oncology
Oncology in the NHS offers career progression, leadership, a clear pathway to specialist registration with a competitive salary....
Oncology in the NHS branches into two main sub-specialisms, medical oncology and clinical oncology. Clinical oncology is the branch of oncology more commonly referred to as radiation oncology outside the UK, though a clinical oncologist's duties encompass both systematic and radiotherapy treatments in the UK. Cancer waiting times are one of the most critical performance indicators an NHS trust is judged upon, and as such oncology is an area with significant demand, as despite large numbers of oncologists registered in the UK, the numbers of qualified oncologists is relatively low when compared to vacancy rates. This means there are many fantastic opportunities available both medical and clinical oncologists interested in joining the NHS, with many NHS trusts offering excellent support with CESR, specialty training applications and general career & sub-specialty development and registration support. Leadership roles with significant career development opportunities are also available to most specialists entering the UK system, and generally motivated clinicians looking to develop in any area of specialisation or leadership in the UK will be supported to do so.
Requirements for an overseas doctor in these areas:
- IELTS or OET
- Medical Oncologists must obtain MRCP
- Clinical Oncologists must obtain FRCR (Oncology)
- EEA applicants only require IELTS or OET (plus their Recognised European Qualification) for GMC registration
Have you taken a look at our IMG Library?
Read interesting articles written by our specialist IMG teams including relevant articles on:
- IELTS or OET
- GMC Registration
- MRCP
- FRCR (Oncology)
- Equivalent Qualifications
- An Oncologist's Route to the UK
What can you expect to do as part of a typical working week in the NHS?
Clinical oncologists often work in specialist cancer hospitals, large acute teaching hospitals, district general hospitals or private sector clients. Radiotherapy treatments sessions, multidisciplinary team meetings, outpatient clinic, consultations and follow-ups, inpatient ward rounds, reports writing for GPs, teaching sessions for juniors and trainees and very importantly, research, will all form part of your working week. Research is an integral part of clinical oncology.
Medical oncologists work to provide the best possible outcome for cancer patients, whether that is cure, or palliation and prolongation of good quality life. In addition, they provide counselling for patients and their families, whilst clinical research is an important feature of their role like clinical oncologists. Clinical care, clinical trials, laboratory and translational cancer research form an integral part of the training, and they are trained to work as part of a multidisciplinary team, being able to advise on all aspects of treatment including surgery and radiotherapy as well as having the skills to administer systemic therapies. A medical oncologists work also includes diagnosing cancers, discussing treatment options with patients, arranging and supervising drug treatment and therapies including the management of any complications that may arise and supporting patients and overseeing their care, including their lives after treatment.
Medical oncologists treat patients who have localised or metastatic malignancy in need of systemic therapy. They also treat patients whose cancer has potentially been cured by surgery but for whom further therapy improves their outlook.
Medical and clinical oncologists often work in partnership together, and clinical oncology covers both the therapeutic administration of ionising radiation (radiotherapy) and cytotoxic chemotherapy. However, only clinical oncologists administer radiotherapy.
Did you know?
NHS Cancer targets work to 85% of patients to start their first cancer treatment for cancer within two months of an urgent GP referral. This timeframe is also applied to patients referred from an NHS cancer screening service however the operational threshold is set at 90%
A large south-central trust is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist specialising in Lung / SABR on a permanent, full-time basis, considering either UK or overseas trained doctors in Clinical Oncology. The trust will support with CESR, and help consultants to develop their sub-specialty interests.
This is a high-performing and supportive department for overseas doctors new to the NHS, or UK-based doctors looking to further careers in the NHS. This role will provide an excellent springboard with which to further develop as a consultant, with substantial career development opportunities forthcoming.
WHAT IS THE ONCOLOGY DEPARTMENT & LIKE?
This role will focus on supporting the existing Consultant Clinical Oncologists in the department, primarily in the care of lung cancer patients focussing on the implementation of SABR for lung cancer in 2021.The oncology department at the trust is multi-disciplined and highly motivated in the region leading implementation of SABR.
The diagnostic imaging department supports acute and cancer services with CT scanning, MRI, a proactive interventional radiology team, on site PET scanning, nuclear medicine, specialty reporting and dedicated support to cancer MDTs The Oncology department sees approximately 3,500 new referrals per year and delivers around 22,000 episodes of chemotherapy per year. The department has extensive support staff. Including, 7 clinical oncology registrars, 4 medical oncology registrars and SHOs on a variety of training schemes. There are 39 funded beds.
The oncology department utilises world-leading technologies, machines and resources. Including 4 matched Varian linear accelerators and a Toshiba CT simulator. There is an exciting opportunity for a Clinical Oncologist to join this growing department, which has achieved great results in recent years.
WHAT CAREER DEVELOPMENT & OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU?
The department and wider trust are extremely keen on assisting Consultants in developing their career. Consultants receive access to CESR support, access to specialty training from world-leading practitioners, and the opportunity to undertake relevant external duties to enhance continued career development.
In addition to the Trust’s medical library the department holds an extensive library of journals and relevant educational materials to support CPD. The department is forward-thinking and began utilising SABR for lung primaries and oligometastatic disease in March 2021. The oncology research team is dynamic and innovative, comprising research nurses, radiographers, pharmacists, clinical trials assistants and R&D colleagues, supporting a large portfolio of clinical trials. The Trust is firmly committed to offering the advantages of clinical research participation to as many of its patients as possible.
LIFE IN SOUTH ENGLAND
This is a thriving commercial and cultural centre. Just 90 minutes from central London benefitting from good road and rail links, as well as easy access to Europe. The trust is home to a thriving artistic community with a medley of museums and theatres. Developments within the city itself and on the harbour suggest a vibrant future for the area. Inland from the hospital is the beautiful and relatively unspoilt countryside of a National Park and New Forest.
The area combines the advantages of city life with pleasant villages and seaside towns. There are several first-rate schools both in the state and private sector and it is an excellent place to raise a family.
This is a fantastic opportunity for experienced radiation or clinical oncologists to further specialise in the NHS, or work towards their CESR and Specialist Registration in Clinical Oncology.
WHAT IS NHS TRUST LIKE?
The trust is renowned in the region for it's well run clinical services, excellent leadership structure and friendly culture, welcoming to doctors and healthcare professionals the world over. The Trust was formed in July 2018 and brings together five hospitals in the local area to provide the highest quality care to patients across the county. The trust has over 13,000 members of staff offers huge opportunity for development, training and personal growth. The trust's recent CQC report highlights these very areas and scored 'Good' in it's most recent.
WHAT IS THE ONCOLOGY & DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The Cancer Business Unit offers high quality clinical care within flexible and sustainable job plan structures. Recently the Trust has seen the opening of a graduate entry Medical School which has greatly enhanced the teaching and research opportunities for medical staff.
The Chemotherapy facility includes a state of the art Day Unit with 24 outpatient chemotherapy chairs, a 5 chair assessment bay for unwell patients, two 2 bedded siderooms, and 4 counselling/clinic rooms. Chemotherapy is prepared in a satellite pharmacy within the Unit. Treatment is provided by experienced chemotherapy nurses who are well versed in cannulation and administering chemotherapy. There are plans to move the unwell assessment area to the inpatient ward very shortly. They have 70 dedicated oncology beds across the trust and provision of side rooms for neutropenic patients and special requirements. The Oncology service is well supported by a well-established Haematology Service, Palliative Medicine Service including inpatient unit, Clinical Psychologists, interpreters and bereavement support staff.
Radiotherapy, Brachytherapy and Radiotherapy Physics are housed together in a purpose-built centre, with the following equipment:
- 4 Varian TrueBeam Linear Accelerators
- Aria Oncology management system and Eclipse treatment planning.
- HDR Brachytherapy Unit
- Xstrahl Superficial Xray therapy – 80kV & 120kV
- Toshiba wide-bore CT-simulator, with Prosoma Virtual simulation
The hospitals are located in the north east midlands with great access to the North Westerly cities, Birmingham, London and the rest of the UK with its excellent national transport connections. The local region is beautiful, not far from the world-famous Peak District National Park and home to some of the UK’s most beautiful and dramatic countryside with nature, fresh air and wildlife being the cornerstone of this stunning part of the UK. It is not just a rural area however, and the area is well developed with two cities and several towns offering a feasible location for individuals to set up home.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
Requirements for this role include:
- 2 years+ consultant experience (NHS experience is desirable but not essential)
- MRCP UK
- SCE Medical Oncology
- GMC eligibility
- IELTS or OET either passed or in process
Medical & Clinical Oncology consultants looking to start or continue their careers in the NHS are invited to join excellent, large specialised hospital Trust on the South Coast of England. CESR candidates either completed or in process are invited to apply whilst candidates on the specialist will be warmly received of course. The Specialist Oncology Centre is based onsite and provides Cancer services to the local population in addition to parts of Sussex (Chichester) and the Isle of Wight. It is a friendly and integrated Centre, with enhanced treatment and facilities, nursing and pharmacy roles and encourages research and innovation.
They are looking to appoint both a clinical and medical oncologist and they can offer either permanent consultant roles or locum consultant roles with support for CESR depending on whether you are recognised as a specialist in the UK already. Additionally, these roles can cater for your cancer site interests amongst their most needed areas that include breast, brain tumour, colon, lung, head and neck and CNS.
The area combines the advantages of city life with rural villages and seaside towns, whilst the city centre itself is a thriving naval city, steeped in history, on the beautiful South Coast. It is ninety minutes from central London and has good transport links by ferry and airplane into Europe. Water sports facilities are excellent with access to the channel and sandy beaches are within easy reach. Inland is the spectacular and relatively unspoilt countryside of rural Hampshire, and the South Downs National Park.
Job requirements:
FRCR or equivalent for clinical oncologists
MRCP or equivalent for medical oncologists
CCT or Specialist Registration eligibility
IELTS/ OET
Extensive experience as an oncologist with interests in either of CNS, breast, brain tumour, colorectal, lung, head & neck and CNS.
Length of contract:
Either permanent or 24-month fixed term (subject to be renewed)
Benefits:
This centre is a great hospital to work in, below are some of several key benefits to working at at this Centre.
- Attractive salary and relocation package
- Training and development opportunities within your areas of preference
- Th centre acts as one the major cancer hubs on the South Coast of England and has established, high performing services
- CESR support for those eligible and requiring it
- Tier 2 Health and Care Visa (sponsorship for the whole family)
- Guidance regarding the CV and full interview preparation
- Assistance regarding the GMC registration, visa, accommodation and transportation by an experienced onboarding specialist
- Complete IMG Relocation service from start to finish of process
- New service for SABR for primary lung cancer and oligometastatic disease will be up and running in the early part of 2021.
- established brachytherapy program for both prostate cancer and gynaecological treatments, and laparoscopic and robotic surgery programmes are well developed. Both urology and gynaecology teams are a research active with a broad portfolio of clinical studies and strong track record of recruitment to clinical trials
Any Oncology Specialists with interest in breast, brain tumour, colon, lung, head and neck and CNS cancers are strongly invited to apply. CESR will be supported where needed and the trust will nurture your career and professional development goals.
Consultant in Medical Oncology with interests in urological, melanoma, acute oncology (CESR support)
CESR supporting role available for consultants in medical oncology for a trust in the North of England. The trust will support overseas candidates not on the specialist register and is open to interests in a number of different cancer sites.
Job requirements:
MRCP UK or equivalent
IELTS / OET
SCE Medical Oncology is desirable
Extensive experience as a medical oncologist
Previous consultant experience
Length of contract:
12 month fixed-term (subject to be renewed) or substantive for those with Specialist Registration in Medical Oncology
- Attractive salary and relocation package
- Training and development opportunities
- CESR support for those eligible
- Tier 2 Health and Care Visa (sponsorship for the whole family
- Guidance regarding the CV and full interview preparation
- Assistance regarding the GMC registration, visa, accommodation and transportation by an experienced onboarding specialist
- Complete IMG Relocation service from start to finish of process
Grade:
Consultant
Associate Specialist can be considered for good candidates lacking enough experience for consultant roles.
Specialty:
Medical Oncology
Interests in urological, melanoma (skin), acute oncology are preferable, however breast, gynae, colorectal, lung and other special interests can all be considered
Job requirements:
MRCP / FRCR or Specialist Registration in Medical / Clinical Oncology
IELTS / OET
Extensive experience as a an oncologist
Experience with upper GI, lower GI and breast cancer sites preferable
Length of contract:
12 month fixed term (extendable until CESR)
Benefits:
- Attractive salary and relocation package
- Training and development opportunities
- CESR support for those eligible
- Tier 2 Health and Care Visa (sponsorship for the whole family)
- Guidance regarding the CV and full interview preparation
- Assistance regarding the GMC registration, visa, accommodation and transportation by an experienced onboarding specialist
- Complete IMG Relocation service from start to finish of process
Consultant or Associate Specialist
Specialty:
Medical or Clinical Oncology
Interests in Breast Cancer, Upper and Lower GI cancers
A new opportunity to join a high performing Oncology Department in the North East of England.
The post will be an excellent option for experienced consultants to work in a well staffed and organised team, with opportunity for teaching and management in the future.
Department overview:
The department is well staffed and the new appointee will join a team of 20 oncologists. The post is predominantly based in the trusts dedicated cancer centre. The cancer care services have benefited from recent investment of £35million, and you will have the opportunity to work within a state of the art facilities.
The post would focus on colorectal or upper GI cancer and cancer of the unknown primary (CUP) with possible work in other disease sites if needed.
The department boasts an expanded chemotherapy unit designed to meet the increasing demand for systemic treatment with established nurse-led and pharmacy-led chemotherapy clinics.
The trust also houses state of the art radiotherapy facilities.
Local area:
The hospital is set in a large town in the north East of England, with an excellent cost of living making this an attractive place to start in the NHS.
The surrounding areas and nearby coast offer opportunity to spend time in some of the most scenic areas of the North East of England.
Requirements for the post:
UK based applicants:
- CCT or within 6 months of CESR
- Consultant experience in Oncology
- Specialisation
- Consultant Experience in Oncology
- MRCP
- Within 6 months of CESR - extensive consultant experience in Oncology