Compare roles in health

Not sure where to start with the hundreds of NHS careers? Use our compare roles section to get bite-size information on the entry requirements and training, pay and conditions, prospects and skills needed of up to three roles. If there is something that you think you could do, then get more in-depth information on the role.

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  1. Anatomical pathology

    Anatomical pathology is the processing, examination, and diagnosis of surgical specimens in hospital and public mortuaries.

    The main entry point into this area of work is currently with 5 GCSEs at A-C, including English, maths and a science - ideally biology - (or equivalent level-2 qualification) for a post as a trainee anatomical pathology technologist. You’ll work towards a level-3 Diploma in Anatomical Pathology Technology.
    Anatomical pathology technologists will usually work a standard 37.5 hours per week. In the NHS, salaries range from bands 3 to 5. Terms and conditions may vary outside the NHS.
    Effective verbal and written communication skills, confidence with technology and processes, ability to work as part of a team and a confident and sympathetic approach.
    More senior roles within the mortuary. There may be the opportunity to apply for posts elsewhere in pathology services.
  2. Facilities management

    Facilities managers ensure that the services that patients need during their stay in hospital are available, such as meals, linen and a clean environemnt. 

    You can enter facilities management through an apprenticeship or with level 3 qualifications and working your way up through supervisory roles into more senior positions. Relevant qualifications are available through The British Institute of Facilities Management, City and Guilds, Institute of Leadership and Management and Pearson qualifications. Some postgraduate qualifications incorporate facilities management.
    Staff in the NHS will usually work a standard 37.5 hours per week. They may work a shift pattern. Most jobs in the NHS are covered by the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay scales. This pay system covers all staff except doctors, dentists, and the most senior managers (where very senior managers pay apply). You could work your way through supervisory level roles in hospitality/domestic services at AfC bands 3 and 4 to managerial roles in facilities management at bands 5-8. Terms and conditions of service can vary for employers outside the NHS.
    To work in facilities management, as a guide you’ll need an up to date awareness of Health and Safety issues and appropriate legislation, good organisational skills, good communication skills, the ability to manage and motivate a team, be able to work under pressure, solve problems as they arise, an understanding of finance and being able to manage a budget, the ability to create and maintain effective working relationships, be able to sustain housekeeping supplies, to maintain information systems, maintain a safe and secure working environment and a commitment to the ideals of quality and fairness in delivering healthcare.
    With further training and/or experience, you may be able to develop your career further into more senior managerial roles – often combined with other areas of responsibility - typically within operational management.
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