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There was an excellent programme at the BGS Autumn meeting in Harrogate with clinical updates on thromboembolic disease, cataract, lung cancer and on depression and paranoia.

The normal back to back lecture format was broken up by an excellent debate on assisted dying and an interesting double act delivered the medical and surgical interventions for valvular heart disease.

SAS Group Meeting - 5th October
The meeting was small but select and it was encouraging to welcome several new faces. Practical advice on CPD, revalidation, appraisal and applying for discretionary points was given. Attendees’ attention was drawn to the new web-pages which carry further information on these topics. None of the doctors present reported particular problems in attending the BGS meeting, obtaining study leave or expenses. However, it is appreciated that the attendees were the people least likely to have experienced problems in these areas, so if you have different experiences please let me know.

One other item I would particularly like to draw your attention to was a discussion on getting SAS doctors more involved in audit and research. It was felt one way to become more involved in BGS activities would be to encourage SAS doctors to submit posters for future Spring or Autumn meetings. There is a link on the main BGS website in the yellow box on the left-hand side of the page on guidance for abstract submission. Both research and clinical effectiveness (including audit) are applicable - so why don’t you give it a try? Performing this type of work will certainly help you apply for discretionary points. Undertaking research can be a rewarding process and audit should be part of all our practices now.

Sue Morgan
Chair
Staff and Associate Specialists Sub-Committee