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- Talk
- 19/09/2023
- UK
Job Planning for Surgeons - An Introduction and Controversies
Description
In this talk, Mike Henley addresses the topic of job planning within the context of NHS consultants. He begins with a light-hearted introduction, gauging audience interest in job planning, and expresses enthusiasm for the topic despite the limited time frame of 20 minutes. Henley transitions into discussing current issues surrounding pay, particularly in light of ongoing strikes, emphasizing the financial discrepancies faced by new and established consultants.
Henley presents data on pay thresholds and highlights the erosion of consultant salaries compared to inflation, deepening the sense of urgency about fair compensation. He creatively links this concern to the implications for future pensions and retirement income, underscoring how financial struggles can impact the long-term well-being of healthcare professionals.
Then, he dives into the mechanics of job planning itself, encouraging attendees to refer to their contracts and be well-informed about the job planning process, which is often shrouded in confusion. He emphasizes the importance of job planning meetings being collaborative rather than adversarial, where both parties work towards mutual goals.
Henley outlines the various components of job planning, including Direct Clinical Care (DCC), Supporting Professional Activities (SPA), and additional NHS responsibilities. He presents a source of confusion: the concept of "core SPAs," which, while widely referenced in discussions, lacks a clear definition in contracts.
Moving forward, Henley discusses the criteria for programming activities and the significance of having well-defined objectives in job plans. He notes that these objectives could affect future pay progression, even if they are infrequently scrutinized by employers.
Finally, Henley delves into the importance of mediation and appeals in job planning disputes, explaining the protocol for handling disagreements, emphasizing that both sides can initiate mediation if there are issues in agreement. He encourages proactive management of job plans, stressing that consultants have the right to refuse non-emergency work outside of predetermined hours, which has implications for working conditions and pay.
The talk concludes with Henley reiterating the complexities of job planning and advocating for fair remuneration, efficiency, and resources in NHS roles. He provides resources for further information and supports the audience in advocating for their rights in the workplace.