Cardiac physiology
As one of the largest and most successful cardiac units in the UK, the Wessex Cardiac Centre| treats more than 20,000 patients each year for all forms of serious heart conditions. It has already gained international recognition and is being developed into a global centre of excellence, treating an increasing number of patients from outside the local area.
As you would expect, this is a busy and fast-moving environment within which our team manages a hugely diverse range of cases involving both adults and children. Cardiac physiologists also provide lifelong follow-up and care for patients fitted with pacemakers and implantable cardiac defibrillators, and assist during procedures in the cardiac catheterisation laboratories. Southampton is one of the few centres in the country that provides these services for both adult and paediatric patients.
Our cardiac physiologists therefore enjoy excellent opportunities to gain exposure to many different invasive and non-invasive procedures - and complex conditions. This allows them to rapidly build their experience and develop a solid foundation for career progression. At every stage though, we provide the highest levels of support and personal development, so that each member of the team is equipped with the skills, knowledge and understanding they need to deliver an exceptional service.
Staff profiles
Trainee cardiac physiologists
Trainees are employed by the department and gradually increase their competence as they work through their log book and university course. Their training is closely linked to the needs of the degree, leading to state registration. They receive full support during their training from all the cardiac physiologists in the department and from the regional trainer.
Cardiographers
The department has a team of dedicated cardiographers who provide an ECG and ambulatory monitoring service across the whole hospital site. They also assist with the training of the trainee cardiac physiologists.
Cardiac physiologists
The newly qualified cardiac physiologist performs a wide range of tests within the department, gradually accepting more responsibility as their confidence grows. They work in all areas of the department and may work independently with remote supervision.
Senior cardiac physiologists
Senior staff work across the spectrum of cardiac investigations, gaining experience and supporting the work of the whole department. At this level, practitioners are fully qualified. They may work independently and take responsibility for running a clinic.
Chief cardiac physiologists
Staff in these roles have achieved a high level of technical expertise in an area and mainly concentrate on performing and reporting procedures in that area. They may sub-specialise to support service levels and service development. For example, a cardiac sonographer may sub-specialise in adult congenital work.
Specialist technical heads/clinical specialists
These roles cover a wide range of techniques and management responsibilities. Although specialists in one area of work, they cover other techniques as required by the service. Their specialist role may include advising medical staff on the technical aspects of cardiology - for example the specifics of pacemaker programming or the results of complex ultrasound scans.
Working for us
Our job opportunities are advertised online - see our current vacancies|.
If there are no current vacancies but you would like to register your interest in working for us in future, please get in touch using the form below.