Consultant Physician: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Consultant Physician
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Practice Now »What is a Consultant Physician?
A Consultant Physician is a senior doctor who specialises in a specific field of medicine, like cardiology or rheumatology, and provides expert advice and treatment for patients referred to them. They often work in a hospital setting and have completed extensive training beyond basic medical schooling, including several years of practical experience in their field of specialisation.
Skills
- Clinical expertise in diagnosing and treating complex medical conditions
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective patient consultations and collaboration with healthcare teams
- Proficiency in medical research and evidence-based practice to stay updated with advancements in the field
- Leadership abilities to oversee and manage healthcare teams and departments
- Problem-solving and critical thinking skills to make informed decisions in challenging medical situations
- Empathy and compassion towards patients to provide high-quality care and support
- Time management and organizational skills to handle multiple patient cases and administrative responsibilities efficiently
- Continuous learning and professional development to maintain knowledge and skills in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape
Qualifications & Education
- University degree from a medical school recognised by the General Medical Council
- One year of pre-registration training as a house officer
- Some medical schools operate graduate entry schemes
- Up to two years of postgraduate training in a chosen speciality
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
To become a consultant doctor in the UK, you need to complete a minimum of six years of training in your chosen specialty area. This training leads to a certificate of completion of training (CCT) and listing on the General Medical Council's specialist register.
Yes, a consultant is higher up than a doctor.
A consultant physician in the UK is a highly skilled medical professional who is responsible for diagnosing and treating patients. They have expert knowledge in their field and retain ultimate clinical responsibility for the care of their patients. To work as a consultant physician in the NHS, they must be on the Specialist Register.
A physician is a medical professional who works in a hospital and focuses on diagnosing and treating patients. A consultant, on the other hand, not only cares for patients but also has additional responsibilities that go beyond patient care.
Identify your strengths and weakness in a realistic Consultant Physician mock interview, under 10 minutes
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