[A] doctor from North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust has been selected to represent Associate Specialist and Specialty (SAS) doctors on a national level at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG).
Dr Laura Hipple, associate specialist in obstetrics & gynaecology, went through a thorough selection process to be named as SAS representative for the RCOG.
SAS doctors have at least four years’ post graduate experience and work in a specific field, such as psychiatry, obstetrics and gynaecology, end of life care etc. Being an SAS doctor offers an alternative career to consultant posts.
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists works to improve health care for women everywhere, by setting standards for clinical practice, providing doctors with training and lifelong learning, and advocating for women’s health care worldwide.
Dr Hipple will make her first address to the council at the RCOG tomorrow (Friday 13 April) where she will be showcasing the excellent work the Trust is doing to care for women and explaining how SAS doctors are at the forefront of patient care in the modern NHS.
Dr Hipple said: “I am thrilled to represent SAS doctors, the Trust and Cumbria on a national level. We’re doing some fantastic work here and I want to share our knowledge, experience and learning with all other doctors to improve patient care for all women.
“It is vital that SAS doctors are represented and contribute to national discussions on patient care. We are all part of the NHS and the SAS career path provides a wide range of opportunities for doctors.”
Professor Mary Ann Lumsden, senior vice president of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said: “SAS doctors play an essential role in delivering O&G services and many units wouldn’t function without them. We are delighted that Dr Hipple has become the first speciality doctor lead to represent SAS doctors on the College council. It is critical that we involve SAS doctor needs in workforce and professional development work and planning at the College and Dr Hipple will play an important role in representing these doctors’ needs nationally.”
