Hywel Dda University Health Board is celebrating the invaluable contribution of its specialty and specialist (SAS) doctors as part of National SAS Doctors’ Week (5-9 October 2026).

It recognises the highly skilled workforce that plays a vital role in delivering safe, effective and compassionate care to communities across west Wales.

SAS doctors are central to healthcare delivery within Hywel Dda, bringing a wealth of experience, specialist knowledge and continuity of care across a wide range of medical specialties. The Health Board is committed to supporting SAS colleagues throughout their careers, with opportunities to develop specialist expertise, pursue leadership roles and access ongoing education and training.

The campaign also highlights the diversity of the SAS workforce and the important role it plays in strengthening healthcare services for patients. SAS doctors come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, contributing unique perspectives and skills that enhance patient care and enrich multidisciplinary teams.

Dr Dipanjan Haldar, a Specialist Doctor in Haematology at Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “I chose the SAS doctor pathway because of the opportunity to take on a senior, substantive clinical role while developing my experience and working towards the portfolio pathway. At the same time, it allows me to deliver excellent patient care in my chosen field of expertise, haematology.

“It provides a valuable combination of clinical responsibility, professional development and continuity. The SAS role can be a very positive and fulfilling career in its own right. Having experienced the SAS pathway, I also appreciate the important contribution SAS doctors make to the day-to-day functioning and development of our services.

“I also became an SAS Clinical Lead Advocate to help ensure that the contribution and potential of SAS doctors are recognised and supported across the Health Board. I hope to help colleagues explore career progression, leadership and development opportunities, while creating a stronger connection between SAS doctors, medical staffing and education, and senior leadership.

“SAS Doctors’ Week gives us the opportunity to celebrate the work that SAS doctors are already doing, It aims to encourage colleagues to see the SAS pathway as a positive and valued part of a long-term medical career.”

Mark Henwood, Executive Medical Director at Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: "Our SAS doctors are a highly valued and respected part of our medical workforce and make an outstanding contribution to patient care every day. Their expertise, commitment and leadership are essential to the delivery of high-quality healthcare services across Hywel Dda."

"SAS careers offer rewarding long-term opportunities for doctors who wish to develop specialist skills, pursue leadership roles, contribute to education and innovation, and make a lasting difference to the lives of patients. These roles benefit both individuals and the communities they serve by providing continuity, expertise and experience within our healthcare teams."

"We are committed to supporting the development and progression of our SAS workforce and to creating an environment where colleagues can thrive. My advice to aspiring SAS doctors is to embrace the opportunities, seek out mentorship and development support, and take advantage of pathways for career growth within the profession."

Hywel Dda University Health Board is proud to support All-Wales and British Medical Association (BMA) activities during SAS Doctors' Week. We are helping to raise awareness of the profession and celebrate the achievements of SAS colleagues across Wales.

For more information about SAS doctor careers and current vacancies within Hywel Dda University Health Board, please contact [email protected].