“I am very fortunate that I started my NHS journey with this Trust” – Dr Saha’s #SASWeek25 story

SAS Week, which takes place from 6 – 10 October, is all about recognising and celebrating the work and expertise of SAS (specialist, associate specialist and specialty) doctors.

To mark the week, specialty doctor Dr Sulagna Saha spoke about her experience and journey from her postgraduate psychiatry studies in India to working for the NHS.

Hello, my name is Dr Sulagna Saha. I’m a specialty doctor currently working on Walton, a psychiatric intensive care unit (PICU) at Fieldhead Hospital in Wakefield. I joined South West Yorkshire Partnership Teaching NHS Foundation Trust in April 2023 as an international fellow.

I was initially shadowing the clinical lead on acute wards to get an understanding of NHS structure and functioning. In my first year I worked in the crisis team, then in my second year I moved on to inpatient wards. I have been working in PICU since March 2024, and earlier this year I was successful in securing a specialty doctor post.

I can still recall my very first day attending a multi-disciplinary team meeting with my consultant. From using a fob and alarm to joining MS Teams for the meeting, all these things were very new to me. There was a stark difference from back home. I remember sitting quietly listening to patients speaking to the consultant. I thought everyone would make fun of me but it was quite the opposite – staff were very caring.

My colleagues were all very supportive of me clearing my CASC (Clinical Assessment of Skills and Competencies), which is the final part of the Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych) examination. The Trust sponsored the CASC exam which I was able to clear on my first attempt. I then focused on achieving competencies for higher training.

Moving countries and working in a different structure can be mentally, emotionally and physically very challenging even though you have worked in that field before. I questioned if this was the right move. But I was supported every step of the way both at work and outside. Other specialty doctors made sure I was looking after myself and not missing home. My consultant spent time with me explaining all the different terms and processes. I am very fortunate that I started my journey in NHS with this Trust and my transition was smooth.

During my tenure here, I have met various professionals in this field who have encouraged me to think outside the box. I have met other SAS doctors who are very satisfied with their jobs. There are multiple resources available and senior colleagues are happy to guide. For SAS doctors there are various opportunities including diploma courses and other certification courses to progress their career and enhance their knowledge.

Overall, I am glad that I began my journey here. I have made friends for life, and this Trust has made this experience a smooth one.

You can also watch a video from international fellow Dr Nishant Das who shares his story.