Review of Compensation Levels, Incentives and the Clinical Excellence and Distinction Award Schemes for NHS Consultants

Book excerpt: The Review Body on Doctors' and Dentists' Remuneration is an independent body that makes recommendations to the Prime Minister, the Secretary of State for Health, and the appropriate Ministers and departments in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in respect of pay. The Review takes in account the following considerations: (i) The need to recruit, retain and motivate doctors and dentists; (ii) Regional/local variations in labour markets; (iii) The funds available to the Health Departments; (iv) The overall strategy of the NHS in respect of patient care. The consultant body is comprised of the most senior medical and dental staff in the NHS, who have expert knowledge in their specialities. The Review Body concludes that the overall compensation for consultants is appropriate, but has some reservations about existing schemes and believes that awards should not be a substitute for pay progression. The Review Body outlines a proposed integrated package and career structure for consultants.