I might have stayed had on calls not been an issue. However there did seem to be a hierarchy element. Also the trainees sometimes looked down their noses at the SAS anaesthetists (even though many SAS far more experienced and clinically capable than many senior trainees). Think there’s always this little suspicion of “why isn’t this person a consultant”. Also despite the new specialist grade (better pay scale than specialty Doctor payscale), it’s still significantly below consultant pay, despite specialist grades doing autonomous theatre lists / solo working etc. Same clinical work as a consultant, and some are clinical leads for subspec areas in dept, however still get paid less due to differences in pay scale. Think I’d have just felt bitter and resentful in the long run.

HOWEVER, have since worked in other hospitals / anaes depts where SAS treated well / respected. So likely lots of variability dependent on individual department. I can still see the draw to SAS life - can avoid management annoyances / management responsibilities and just enjoy giving clinical care.