I graduated from Ain Shams University in Cairo, Egypt. Since then, I have enjoyed a successful career, developing my skills and sharing my knowledge and expertise with colleagues and the next generation of doctors through teaching and research.

My postgraduate degrees focused on colorectal surgery. The decision to become a specialty doctor has allowed me to refine my clinical skills and contribute meaningfully to patient care while supporting the growth of fellow clinicians.

I personally have found the SAS role to be incredibly rewarding, providing a unique opportunity to balance clinical practice, leadership and teaching on one hand with personal life and family commitments on the other hand. I strongly encourage our resident doctors and medical students to consider becoming SAS doctors as a rewarding career choice.

A year of progress

My journey serving in the WSASC (the Wales SAS doctors committee) has allowed me to witness first-hand the resilience and dedication of my colleagues in the SAS workforce on a national level. My fellow committee members and I strive to advocate for better pay and working conditions, emphasising the need for recognition and support for the unique challenges faced by SAS doctors. 

This year has been crucial for SAS doctors in Wales, marked by the successful negotiation of an increased pay award for the 2023/24 pay year. After extensive discussions with the Welsh Government, BMA Cymru’s negotiating teams, including WSASC representatives, secured a pay uplift for doctors on the 2021 specialty contract, ranging from 7.24% to 9.2%. This increase translates to an overall in-year uplift for the 2023/24 pay year of between 8.85% and 10.84%.

For those of us, like myself, who are currently on the 2008 specialty doctor contract, the new pay offer presents a compelling opportunity. The 2021 specialty doctor contract has been revised to abolish any disincentives that would potentially discourage doctors from moving, and ensure higher pay scales across the board, making it an attractive option for many. I have, therefore, requested to be transferred to the 2021 contract, as it promises a significant uplift in pay and improved terms as well.

In addition to this, we successfully overturned the unjust pay freeze for senior specialty doctors on the 2008 specialty doctor contract at the end of last year. We have also managed, via our last round of negotiations, to secure an agreement for a straightforward and streamlined process for senior specialty doctors, who wish to progress their careers further and take on more responsibilities, to be regraded to the specialist grade. We are currently finalising this process with NHS Wales employers.

We’re also proud to have established a revised version of the SAS charter to improve working conditions for hard-working SAS doctors in Wales. The revised elements of the charter include a requirement for a job plan to be in place when a new role is advertised, ensuring SPA time is fully recognised and established in the job plan by employers as well as recognition of the 40% limit for working time out of hours.

The work to have these new changes implemented in NHS Wales continues and we aim to roll them out imminently.

Looking ahead

Despite our critical role, SAS doctors often face significant challenges in our careers. It’s essential that we recognise and address these challenges to improve the working conditions and job satisfaction of SAS doctors.

As I step into my new role as WSASC deputy chair my focus will be on advocating for the interests of SAS doctors, ensuring that we continue to receive the recognition and support we deserve. I am committed to fostering an environment where clinical excellence and professional growth are paramount.

We still need more voices to grow our committee, and we encourage our colleagues from across Wales to join our productive and committed group. Our collective voice can influence policy changes that improve pay structures, career advancement opportunities, and recognition of the invaluable work that SAS doctors perform.

As we celebrate this week, let’s cherish the incredible dedication of all SAS doctors in Wales, as we keep in mind that it is not just a celebration of our achievements; it’s also a call to action. Together, we must continue to push for ongoing support and advocacy to create a fair and equitable working environment where everyone can thrive and feel valued.

Evidence shows that the future of our healthcare system depends on our ability to support and empower SAS doctors to reach their full potential to ensure that we continue to provide exceptional care for our patients. We, together, can work toward a future inclusive and supportive environment, where the contributions of SAS doctors are fully recognised, valued and their voices well heard.

Let’s all work to make this future a reality and achieve great things for the healthcare community in Wales. I would like to grasp this opportunity to say thank you to each and every SAS doctor in Wales for your continued dedication and hard work. 

Together, we can.

Celebrating SAS Week 2024

SAS Week, 14–18 October, is a time to celebrate the SAS doctor workforce, which forms the backbone of many medical teams across the NHS. It’s a timely opportunity to reflect on the vital contributions of this wonderful group of doctors within NHS Wales, and a fantastic chance to raise the profile of SAS roles by showcasing what a fulfilling career it can be. We want to celebrate these dedicated professionals, their extensive experience, and specialised skills which play a crucial role in delivering high-quality, effective and compassionate patient care. 

Follow and join in on #SASWeek24 to share and to hear more stories about SAS work across the UK and find out about local events and opportunities to access BMA webinars.

Hisham Bakr is deputy chair of the BMA Wales SAS doctors committee