Being a SAS doctor - a career to be championed, celebrated and embraced!
Dr Libby Crawford
2008-2018 was traditional medical training, the long road of exams, job interviews, rotational placements all whilst fitting in 2 children. I was a ST4-5 in acute medicine, looking down the barrel of the SCE and placements outside of medicine. Balancing family, less than full time training in an acute speciality was difficult. But then following a significant family illness I was prompted to re-prioritise my life and I made the decision to leave training.
I planned and designed a job, alongside my employer at the time, which was suitable for my current work/life balance and allowed me to continue to contribute in a meaningful and satisfying way remaining in my specialty, acute medicine.
I worked a routine 9-5 job building confidence and respect from my colleagues and patients and then started to think about career progression on my timeline of confidence and competence.
7 years later I am now working as a Specialist (senior SAS grade) in acute medicine embedded fully within the consultant team. I practise autonomously, clinically and educationally supervise resident doctors and allied health care professionals and teach regularly. I am head of department for Same Day Emergency Care and am passionate about service and staff work force development. I have been able to build a portfolio career focussed on my interests including simulation teaching, leadership and continue to be passionate and supportive of SAS colleagues and alternative career pathways. I have also been able to use these skills outside of the NHS working with national organisations and most recently the College to champion the role of SAS doctors and raise awareness and engagement.
Currently, I have no plans to complete portfolio training to become a consultant, as my work/life balance and job satisfaction are perfect.
As an SAS doctor I have shaped my own career, at a pace which allowed me to prioritise health, happiness and support of my family, whilst not compromising on career progression.
I am respected in my role and really do champion the opinion of SAS by choice. There is no glass ceiling, and this is a career to be championed, celebrated and embraced by the NHS and beyond!