HSE launches NCHD Health and Wellbeing Hub

A new workplace health and wellbeing service for non-consultant hospital doctors (NCHDs), launched this week.

The NCHD Hub will offer support with occupational health assessments to NCHDs. Services include:

• Advice on workplace adjustment for psychological and medical issues
• Disability and work advice
• Work-related stress support
• Fitness for work assessments
• Psychological support relating to your role as an NCHD

The resource is available to those who have an NCHD contract with the HSE or a Section 38 service. It can be accessed by self-referral or via a referral from local Occupational Health Services, Medical Manpower, National Specialty Director (NSD) or relevant training body.

Bernard Gloster, CEO, HSE, said:

“NCHDs represent approximately 5% of the HSE workforce and their wellbeing is vitally important. This is a very significant service development, with benefits for our doctors and our patients as a result. The Hub is one of the recommendations of the Department of Health, National Taskforce on NCHD Workforce 2023, with the final report due to be published this year.   

In addition to the development of a hub for NCHDs a number of infrastructure standards to improve working conditions of NCHDs have been implemented, enhanced rest facilities, refurbishment of change facilities, increased locker security and ICT supports. 

We look forward to the publication of the final report of the NCHD Taskforce.” 

Anne Marie Hoey, National Director of HR, HSE welcoming the launch of the NCHD Hub, said:

“This development follows the identification of the requirement to provide this support for the health of the NCHD workforce who are a transient group within our health service and will benefit from access to a Hub when they require it.” 

The NCHD Hub will provide enhanced case management for NCHDs, who rotate annually from one site to another, many up to four times per year. Additionally, the service will be networked to all training sites around the country.

For further details see the HSE website NCHD Hub