Stepping into the unknown: my first day as an SAS doctor
In 2002, I embarked on my journey as an SAS doctor with equal parts nerves and excitement. Having just arrived from India, armed with a decade of experience as an anaesthetist, I felt ready to face new challenges. However, breaking into anaesthetic training proved difficult—after attending sixteen interviews over four years, I faced repeated rejections but remained undeterred.
At the same time, my wife, having completed her PLAB exams after a career break, was determined to return to work. Coming from a farming family, she had earned her place at a government medical school in India without reservations, overcoming historic discrimination. Her perseverance became my driving force.
Navigating dyslexia: unseen challenges
Unbeknownst to me, dyslexia was affecting my ability to succeed in interviews. I often skipped words, left sentences unfinished, and struggled to articulate ideas I knew well. Despite this, I refused to let it define my trajectory, determined to persevere, adjust, and improve.
A father's wisdom: ‘you become what you believe’
My late father, a retired teacher, often shared a Sanskrit teaching: “यद् भावं तद् भवति” (‘Yad Bhavam Tad Bhavati’) –‘You become what you believe.’ His words anchored me through difficult times. I recall a BMA leader mentioning that SAS doctors face additional hurdles when seeking leadership roles. This only strengthened my resolve, reminding me that success isn't guaranteed but is achievable through persistence.
Celebrating growth: SAS week
As SAS week approaches (14-18 October), it’s a fitting time to reflect on my extended SAS roles. These events highlight our contributions, inspire growth, and foster collaboration. I encourage colleagues to take this opportunity to celebrate their achievements and continue pushing boundaries.
Starting small, dreaming big!
In 2003, I merged my computer science background with healthcare to create the first microsite for the Anaesthetic department at a North London hospital. I also became a member of the joint local negotiating committee, representing key voices within the department. Despite contributing significantly, I didn’t receive the recognition I hoped for, which led me to transition to Stockport NHS Foundation Trust and a new chapter of leadership.
The Power of leadership and mentorship
Throughout my career, I’ve encountered remarkable leaders whose guidance shaped my growth. In 2005, during an appraisal with Colin Wasson, later appointed medical director, his mentorship proved invaluable, helping me secure promotion to associate specialist and later facilitating the regrading of 11 SAS doctors as part of the SAS contract implementation group. His continuous support remains a cornerstone in my career, though he humbly insists he’s ‘just doing his job.’
The quiet leaders who drive innovation
Leadership isn’t always about loud gestures. Richard Ellis led by quiet example, while Gordon Yuill’s encouragement inspired me to innovate, including developing a program for the antenatal anaesthetic outpatient service. Their support highlighted how effective leadership can lead to impactful change, even without fanfare.
Solving a crucial problem: a defining moment (2012)
One of the most rewarding moments of my NHS career came in 2012, when I addressed surgery cancellations caused by anticoagulation issues. Collaborating with David Adamson, I developed a VBA algorithm to predict perioperative outcomes. After a six-month pilot, the results were promising: fewer cancellations, reduced hospital stays, and fewer unnecessary referrals. This achievement earned me the role of perioperative anticoagulation lead and a runner-up prize for innovation from the Association of Anaesthetists in 2014. SAS doctors have the potential to drive significant change –embracing challenges can yield long-lasting contributions to healthcare.
A new leadership path: becoming a SAS tutor (2012)
In 2012, my leadership journey took a new turn when Prof. David Baxter, director of medical education at Stockport, entrusted me with the role of SAS tutor. This ignited my passion for developing SAS doctors, enabling me to introduce leadership programs and lead courses. I also became the first SAS doctor to serve as ATLS course director for Stockport and WWL, creating opportunities for SAS doctors and consultants to collaborate on education programs.
Empowering SAS doctors: local and regional projects
My focus on empowering SAS doctors gained momentum in 2018 when I introduced educator roles for SAS doctors at Stockport. In 2020, the recognition of SAS doctors as autonomous clinicians through the true coding system further validated our critical role in patient care. Initiatives like the HEENW CESR Support Forum, which provides mentorship for CESR applicants, have helped create a thriving, supportive community.
Regional Leadership: Pathway Lead and Deputy Quality Lead
In 2016, Umesh Prabhu and Prof. Raj Murali, with the recommendation of Colin Wasson, appointed me as the international fellows supervisor for Stockport. This opportunity allowed me to support international medical graduates. I was soon appointed Deputy Quality Lead for the Fellowship program, overseeing an induction process that has since benefited over 1,000 international doctors.
NHS England North West SAS development programme lead
As SAS tutor, I took on broader responsibilities with NHS England North West, managing the SAS fund and working alongside Amit Kocchar to set national standards. Under the leadership of Aruna Hodgson, a true advocate for SAS doctors, I was honoured to become the SAS development programme lead, supporting the development of our profession at a regional and national level.
Shaping medical education: visiting professorship at Bolton University
One of the most significant moments in my career was my appointment as deputy quality lead for the WWL International Training Fellowship. This opened doors in higher education, eventually leading to an honorary lectureship at Edge Hill University. Under the vision of Prof. Iqbal Singh, I’ve had the privilege of shaping medical curricula at Bolton University’s Institute of Medicine, where I now serve as Visiting Professor, developing the doctor of medicine programme.
Final thoughts
The Sanskrit phrase ‘Yad Bhavam Tad Bhavati’ reminds us of the transformative power of belief. Embracing extended SAS roles has been one of the most fulfilling decisions of my career, opening doors in leadership, education, and research. As SAS week approaches, I look forward to learning from and celebrating with my colleagues. Let’s continue supporting each other, embracing challenges, and unlocking our full potential.