FAQs
What qualifications do I need to apply for the Band 7/8a Trainee/Qualified Advanced Clinical Practitioner position?
You need Professional Healthcare Registration with a UK Regulatory Body (NMC/HCPC/GPC), a Post Graduate Qualification in a specific specialty or equivalent experience, an MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice or Level 7 equivalent portfolio (for trainee applicants, this should include evidence of health assessment at Level 7), and a Non-Medical Prescribing Course where applicable.
Can newly qualified professionals apply for this position?
Yes, this post is open to both qualified Advanced Clinical Practitioners and Band 7 Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioners, provided they have the required qualifications such as the Health Assessment and Independent Prescribing qualification.
What are the main duties of the Advanced Clinical Practitioner in this role?
The successful candidate will partake in clinical duties to ensure seamless patient pathways, including pre-operative and post-operative management of cardiac surgical patients, practical procedures, and collaboration with GP's and referring hospital teams. The role also involves providing out-of-hours care for cardiothoracic transplant patients with the transplant team.
What is the expected clinical to non-clinical ratio for qualified and trainee practitioners?
The qualified post holder will have a clinical component of 90% and related non-clinical work of 10%. For trainee practitioners, the ratio is expected to be 80% clinical and 20% non-clinical.
What experience is essential for candidates applying for this position?
Candidates must have extensive post-registration experience at a senior level (Band 7 or above) in the specialty area, including significant clinical and leadership experience. Evidence of working in a multi-disciplinary team (MDT), ongoing Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and teaching across various environments is also required.
Are there any desirable qualifications or experiences for applicants?
Yes, desirable qualifications include Advanced Life Support Qualification or Cardiac Life Support. Additionally, knowledge of the national and local NHS healthcare agenda and its implications is beneficial.
What personal qualities and skills are important for this role?
Candidates should demonstrate reliability, punctuality, professionalism, the ability to work under pressure, awareness of their limitations, strong leadership skills, and a willingness to work flexible shift patterns.
Where will the Advanced Clinical Practitioner be working?
The position is based in the Cardiac Surgery department at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, and the post holder may be required to travel to other Trust sites as needed.
What is meant by “evidence of working across the four pillars of advanced practice”?
This refers to demonstrating competencies across the four key areas: Clinical Practice, Leadership and Management, Education, and Research. Applicants should provide evidence that they have engaged with and gained experience in these pillars during their training or practice.
What support will be available to the new Advanced Clinical Practitioner?
The successful candidate will be part of a supportive team of 11 qualified and trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioners, with access to Consultant Surgeon supervisors, which ensures guidance and mentorship in their role.