Job overview

The Royal Cornwall hospital is a recognised cancer treatment centre managing around 400 colorectal cancers a year. Clinics are spread around the county to cater for patients’ needs. Diagnostics such as radiology and colonoscopy facilities are provided at RCH and WCH. Major bowel surgery will be performed only at RCHT. 

The unit presently has eight Colorectal Consultants, all of whom perform laparoscopic colorectal cancer and benign resection surgery. Colorectal stenting is available including out of hours with an interventional radiology rota. GI radiology is particularly strong at RCHT. The MDT liaises with the hepatobiliary and thoracic MDTs at Derriford in Plymouth, who take patients for surgical treatment of metastatic disease. There is a fortnightly network MDT within the peninsular for anal cancer patients. The TEO surgeons and gastroenterologists have a weekly ‘Large polyp’ MDT. 

Presently all colorectal surgeons choose to manage aspects of elective inflammatory bowel disorders, which is not mandatory for this post. There is a weekly MDT for complex IBD patients and we have excellent relationships with gastroenterology and the nutrition support team. Three surgeons support endometriosis procedures and it is anticipated that this post holder will have endometriosis support duties. Sessions can be mentored by existing consultants where appropriate.

Main duties of the job

Provide a colorectal and general surgery service of the highest standards for the Cornish population

Share responsibility with colleagues for the day-to-day management of the GI Surgery Department

Teaching and training of resident doctors and medical students where applicable

Ensure ongoing development via continuing Medical education (CME)

Actively participate in both departmental and Trust matters concerning clinical governance and audit

Fulfil duties of the weekly timetable including out-of-hours responsibility

Engage in some elements of flexible timetabling with cooperation and transparency

Support colleagues throughout the multidisciplinary team and promote a culture of respect

Working for our organisation

Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust is the biggest provider of healthcare services in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Our three main sites are Royal Cornwall Hospital Truro, St Michael’s Hospital Hayle and West Cornwall Hospital Penzance, our staff and services are available across the region.

The Trust employs 5,000+ staff, has a budget of £380 million and 750 beds

We work with health and social care organisations including ¬NHS Kernow and NHS England ¬to ensure local healthcare needs are met. We provide acute medical, surgical and specialist services to around 500,000 ¬ which can increase significantly during busy holiday periods.

The Trust has teaching hospitals status as part of the University of Exeter Medical School. Keeping at the forefront of medical advances, we continually developing clinical services and are committed to maximising the range of specialist care offered locally.

We can offer you a rewarding career in a supportive working environment. We have extensive educational links to help you realise your full potential and develop skills to provide outstanding healthcare to the local community.

Enjoy an outstanding quality of life in a place that offers surfing beaches and fishing harbours to beautiful countryside and historic towns. With clean air, plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and excellent schools, colleges and universities (including adult education) it is the ideal place for families and for you to develop your own career.