Consultant physicians

A consultant physician is a senior doctor who practises in one of the medical specialties. Once specialty training has been completed, doctors are able to apply to consultant posts. This can be a very competitive process, particularly in certain specialties. Consultants accept ultimate responsibility for the care of patients referred to them, so it is a position of considerable responsibility. A physician typically works in a hospital, and their central duty is to carry out the investigations and procedures necessary to establish a diagnosis, and then to give advice and provide treatment where appropriate. Treatments may vary from courses of a single drug, to highly complex regimes. The RCP’s publication, Consultant physicians working with patients: the duties, responsibilities and practice of physicians in medicine, states that:

‘The unique skill of the consultant physician is the ability to diagnose and make clinical decisions in difficult, complex and uncertain circumstances.’

The work of the consultant goes beyond this core function. Another key aspect of the role is being involved in – and often leading – multidisciplinary teams which deliver joined-up care. This involves being able to take a comprehensive view of the care pathway, and managing other team members (nurses, anaesthetists, physiotherapists, pharmacists etc) accordingly. Consultants are also expected to be involved in the teaching and training of students and junior doctors, and to contribute to their specialty field through research and leadership.

As part of the coalition government’s health reforms, consultant physicians will also play a role in the commissioning of local health services for patients.