During this week we would like to congratulate Dr Ali Shojaie who was recently named Cygnet’s SAS Doctor of the Year.
SAS (Specialty and Associate Specialist) doctors are senior clinicians who have completed medical training but have chosen a non-training career path, focusing on delivering patient care,
Dr Shojaie won his award at the recent Cygnet Annual Psychiatrists Conference and National Awards 2024 which recognised specialist doctors who demonstrate exceptional clinical skills, service development, teaching, research and leadership.
He works at Cygnet Hospital Woking, on Redding Way, Knaphill, a 62-bed hospital which offers inpatient mental health care to men and women. He was singled out at the awards ceremony for his exemplary clinical skills and was nominated for his innovative approach to challenges and his commitment to continuing education keep him at the forefront of medical advancements and progress.
Dr Shojaie is the lead for the Local Academic Programme at Cygnet Hospital Woking, leading and organising regular teaching sessions for the staff.
On receiving the award, he said: “I was deeply honoured to receive the SAS Doctor of the Year award.
“Reflecting on my journey, I recall the demanding period when I was working on the acute female ward for nearly two years while simultaneously pursuing my PhD, publishing papers, and preparing for my MRCPsych exams. In hindsight, I can acknowledge the immense effort required, but I must emphasise that this achievement would not have been possible without the exceptional support of my team at Cygnet Health Care.
“The unwavering encouragement I received from my colleagues will forever remain in my heart. I am profoundly thankful to Cygnet for providing me with this opportunity to grow and flourish in my career. The recognition is a testament to the collaborative spirit and supportive environment fostered by the entire team.”
On what it means to be an SAS Doctor, Dr Shojaie explained: “As an SAS doctor, I deliver direct patient care and make clinical decisions, mentor junior doctors and medical students, conduct clinics and ward rounds, participate in multidisciplinary meetings and engage in quality improvement projects.
“I chose the path of an SAS Doctor because of its focus on clinical work and patient care. It also allows for a better work-life balance and gives me the opportunity to develop special interests and contribute to teaching and service development.
“Being an SAS doctor is rewarding because we provide vital specialist care and there’s a strong sense of autonomy. We can develop expertise in niche areas and we contribute significantly to patient continuity and team stability.
“SAS doctors make up 22% of the licensed GMC workforce, playing crucial roles across specialties. The 2021 specialist grade contract has enhanced career progression opportunities, allowing us to take on advanced roles while focusing on clinical excellence and education.”