Strategically placed and robust professional leadership structures are essential for driving clinical practice development in parallel with, and in support of, wider service and organisational developments. Nurse consultants fulfil key leadership roles, shaping and influencing care delivery, service strategy and professional development across NHS Scotland.

Clarity and consistency in the scoping and development of consultant roles will, in turn, support the development and implementation of advanced practice roles. It will also provide a coherent career framework for practitioners and greater clarity regarding expectations for service planners and patients/clients.

NHS Education for Scotland has designed the nurse consultant development programme to prepare individuals for consultant posts. The advanced practice succession planning pathway will employ the same methodology to ensure clear and consistent links are made for practitioners within the Career Framework for Health.