The work patterns of consultant psychiatrists

Abstract

Much has changed in the National Health Service in the UK in the past 10 years and consultant roles need to adapt accordingly. This article describes the drivers for change in consultant roles, including enhanced roles for other mental health professionals, increased expectations of users and carers, changes in junior doctors' work patterns and the new consultant contract. The recommendations of the report on New Ways of Working for Psychiatrists are reviewed, with suggestions for changes in the consultant role in out-patient clinics, community teams and acute care. Enhanced roles for other mental health professionals and the increasing trend to specialisation are also discussed.