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Medical careers at the Royal Devon
Established in April 2022, the Royal Devon is an exemplar for embracing change and innovation to develop new medical models, new ways of working, ground-breaking research and huge levels of investment into new infrastructure, equipment and facilities.
We are committed to support the personal and professional development of our medical staff and in turn improve the care offered to our patients. This might include developing or introducing innovative services and bringing these to rural patients, teaching the doctors of tomorrow or undertaking award winning clinical research.
What is it like to work at the Royal Devon?
The Royal Devon is a newly formed Trust supporting a population of more than 615,000 across more than 2,000 square miles of North, East and West Devon. The scale of operation brings opportunities to establish and develop innovative new services to better meet the needs of our patients.
We enjoy close links with other healthcare trusts such as Musgrove Park in Taunton and the University Hospital Trust Plymouth. This close relationship means that our medical staff are able to enjoy working across Devon, a high degree of autonomy and faster progression whilst still having access to support, teaching and specialist interest or research opportunities.
The Royal Devon has received significant capital investment over the past 12 months which has allowed the implementation of a single electronic patient record (EPR) across the Trust.
We are nationally recognised
As a leading NHS Trust with an impressive geographical footprint, we have a reputation for excellence. For example, the Exeter IBD research is internationally recognised for its programme of multi-site award-winning research and the hepatologists have recently received NIHR funding to deliver the national REDUCE-2 study.
In 2021 our specialist nurses were recognised in the British Journal of Nursing Awards for their innovations during the COVID pandemic and the Inflammatory bowel disease research team was recognised with the National team award for their contribution to the NIHR portfolio.
Research and innovation
We recognise that research active departments deliver better clinical outcomes for patients. We have a large programme of IBD and hepatology investigator led and commercial research studies. The Exeter IBD research is internationally recognised for its programme of multi-site award-winning research and the hepatologists have recently received NIHR funding to deliver the national REDUCE-2 study.
We have a multi-million pound research facility, dedicated research staff and collaborative links with researchers from across the University. Funded time for the development of research proposals is available for interested consultants.
Location and relocation
We are fortunate to be based in the beautiful South West of England and you can choose between the hustle and bustle of the city of Exeter, the rolling moors of Exmoor or the stunning beaches of North Devon. Schools, further education colleges and the University of Exeter are good or outstanding, crime rates are low, and transport links and infrastructure investment are also excellent. We can offer you temporary accommodation to support a visit and a relocation package should you choose to come to Devon.
Your medical career
How do I start a medical career at the Royal Devon?
Before you become a Doctor or surgeon you first have to obtain a degree in medicine from a medical school that is recognised by the GMC. Your training path can last between four and seven years depending on the route you take.
Your training continues after you graduate with the two-year Foundation Programme and then you'll be provisionally registered with a licence to practise while completing the first year. Full registration is awarded when you've completed year one, and then you'll have the opportunity to decide whether you'll become a GP, surgeon or doctor in one of the 60 medical specialties. Alternatively, a career as a Specialist Grade Doctor ( SAS Doctor) can be very satisfying and rewarding too.
Visit NHS Careers for more information about how to get started.
Advancing your career
We are a Trust that makes career progression a priority. As well as supporting the requirements for continuing professional development (CPD) as laid down by the Royal College of Physicians, we’re committed to investing in your development. This may be through research, clinical academics, higher specialist training or leadership.
Revalidation and professional development
You will have the chance to participate in a variety of professional activities (SPA) to support your personal clinical practice and the overall work of the department and Trust.
All consultants receive SPA sessions for generic non-clinical work. This includes, but is not limited to revalidation, personal and professional development, clinical supervision of junior staff, governance and quality improvement activities.
Your bespoke learning journey
You’ll be supported to create your own personal development plan. This is used to identify your individual training needs, which can be met from the wide range of learning opportunities available such as clinical skills, management development, coaching and mentoring, IT skills and much more.
Teaching
The Royal Devon is a university trust that enjoys close ties with the University of Exeter Medical School. We offer funded time for teaching of medical students and junior doctors. We are planning a regular programme of evening educational meetings to bring teams from both sites together. These meetings will also provide opportunities for your own CPD.