Rapid Diagnostics Clinic (RDC) General PractitionerNHS

Job summary

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Rapid Diagnostic Clinic (RDC) General Practitioner to join our innovative and patient-focused team at Hywel Dda University Health Board.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to play a key part in the assessment and management of patients presenting with non-specific but concerning symptoms that may indicate cancer or other serious conditions. Working within the Rapid Diagnostic Clinic pathway, you will provide expert clinical assessment, support timely diagnosis, and contribute to improving patient outcomes through earlier detection and streamlined care.

The successful candidate will work collaboratively with primary care, secondary care, diagnostic services and multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care. In addition to direct clinical responsibilities, the role provides opportunities to influence service development, contribute to pathway improvement, support education and training, and help shape the future of cancer diagnostics across Hywel Dda.

Main duties of the job

The Rapid Diagnostic Clinic (RDC) General Practitioner will play a pivotal role in improving the early identification and diagnosis of cancer and other serious conditions. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, the post holder will assess patients presenting with non-specific but concerning symptoms, support timely access to appropriate investigations, and guide patients through the diagnostic pathway.

The successful candidate will provide expert clinical opinion, make informed diagnostic and management decisions, and work closely with GPs, hospital specialists, diagnostic services and cancer teams to ensure patients receive coordinated, high-quality care. They will help patients navigate what can be an anxious period of uncertainty, ensuring care remains compassionate, person-centred and responsive to individual needs.

In addition to clinical responsibilities, the post holder will contribute to the ongoing development of the Rapid Diagnostic Clinic service, helping to identify opportunities for improvement, enhance pathways, and support the delivery of national and Health Board priorities for earlier diagnosis and improved patient outcomes. They will use data, audit and quality improvement methodologies to support service performance and effectiveness.

Job description

We are looking for a GP who is passionate about improving diagnostic pathways, demonstrates strong clinical leadership skills, and is committed to delivering excellent patient-centred care. The ability to work autonomously whilst building strong relationships across organisational boundaries is essential.

By joining us, you will become part of a Health Board that is committed to innovation, service transformation and continuous professional development. This is an excellent opportunity for a GP seeking to develop a portfolio role while making a significant contribution to earlier diagnosis, improved patient experience and better health outcomes for the population of West Wales.

The role will also involve providing clinical leadership within the service, supporting education and learning across professional groups, and promoting evidence-based practice. The post holder will work collaboratively with colleagues across primary and secondary care, helping to strengthen relationships and develop innovative approaches to cancer diagnostics and patient care

The successful candidate will be an effective communicator, able to build positive working relationships across teams and organisations, demonstrate leadership and initiative, and thrive in a role that combines clinical practice with service improvement and transformation

This is an exciting opportunity for an individual who is passionate about improving diagnostic pathways, reducing delays in diagnosis, and making a meaningful difference to the experience and outcomes of patients across Hywel Dda.

You will be able to find a full job description and person specification attached within the supporting documents.

The Health Board is committed to supporting its staff to fully embrace the need for bilingualism thereby enhancing patient and service user experiences. In our commitment to increase the number of staff who are able to communicate in Welsh with patients and professionals, we welcome applications from Welsh speakers.

The ability to communicate in Welsh is desirable for this post. If you do not meet the Welsh Language requirements specified, the Health Board offers a variety of learning options and staff support to help you meet these minimal desirable requirements during the course of your employment with us.

Hywel Dda 3 Counties - https://youtu.be/RUMDpjtu1sY

Lifestyle in Wales - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vgt03XPT6RQ

Medical Leadership in Hywel Dda - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLioZyqIpwk&t=33s

Virtual Tour - https://youtu.be/Y4JGdD6EHjE

About us

Hywel Dda University Health Board plans and provides NHS healthcare services for people living in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, and bordering counties.

We have over 13,000 staff and together we provide primary, community, in-hospital, mental health and learning disabilities services.

We work in partnership with the three local authorities, as well as public, private and third sector colleagues, including our valued team of volunteers.

Our services are provided in:

• Four main hospitals: Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth; Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen; Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli; and Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest
• Five community hospitals: Amman Valley and Llandovery hospitals in Carmarthenshire; Tregaron Hospital in Ceredigion; and Tenby and South Pembrokeshire hospitals in Pembrokeshire
• Two integrated care centres: Aberaeron and Cardigan in Ceredigion, and several other community settings
• 47 general practices (six of which are health board managed practices); dental practices (including four orthodontic); 97 community pharmacies; 43 general ophthalmic practices; and 8 ophthalmic domiciliary providers
• Numerous mental health and learning disabilities services