Adding Locum work to your Programmed Activities (PAs)

Case study

Dr Y, a full-time Dermatology Consultant at an NHS Foundation Trust, worked 10 Programmed Activities (PAs) per week and wished to undertake locum work with another agency. Their initial job plan reflected a split working arrangement across two hospital sites.

Dr Y sought clarification from MDS on whether this was permissible under their employment contract. They also wanted advice on the best approach to discuss this with their current Trust.

MDS Advice & Outcome

MDS reviewed the national Terms and Conditions for Consultants (England) 2003, which govern Dr Y’s employment contract. Schedule 6 of these Terms and Conditions permits consultants to engage in private work, provided their weekly PAs do not exceed 10 for a full-time consultant.

MDS confirmed with Dr Y that their employment contract allowed locum work, contingent upon having spare professional capacity and ensuring it did not interfere with their primary NHS responsibilities. MDS recommended that Dr Y discuss this with their Medical Director, as the final decision rests with them.

Subsequently, during a Consultants’ group job plan meeting, Dr Y was offered an additional Programmed Activity to accommodate their locum work.

Learning points

It is crucial to thoroughly review your employment contract and job plan upon commencing a new post. These documents may contain restrictions on undertaking work in your spare professional capacity.
Consultants should ensure that any additional work, such as locum work, does not conflict with their primary NHS duties and responsibilities.
Open communication with your Medical Director is essential when considering additional professional activities.

Conclusion

This case study highlights the importance of understanding employment contracts and job plans, particularly concerning external work commitments.

By seeking clarification and engaging in open communication with their Medical Director, Dr Y successfully navigated the process of undertaking locum work while maintaining their NHS responsibilities. This approach ensured compliance with contractual obligations and facilitated a positive outcome, ultimately demonstrating best practices in managing professional activities.

MDS can help!

Do you find yourself in a similar situation and need help balancing your Programmed Activities and Locum work? If you are a MDS member, call our office on 0300 30 32 442 or email or case managers at [email protected].

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