Table 1

The ‘ideal’ host organisation

The ‘ideal’ host organisation
  • Attends to practical aspects to provide a welcoming environment and give a sense of belonging.

  • Provides a tailored induction to the organisation.

  • Defines and negotiates meaningful projects and activities which stretch the Fellow and can be completed within the year.

  • Sets clear boundaries and defines expectations.

  • Provides active and meaningful involvement in daily activities, meetings and discussions.

  • Provides ongoing support, clinical mentoring and project supervision.

  • Enables the Fellow to have access to and work with senior people so they can see their day-to-day struggles and coping strategies.

Provides support and time for the Fellow to engage in a range of activities and reflection.
Opportunities to work in different sectors, for example:
  • Access to national agenda, policies and interests.

  • Understanding Parliament’s working and interests.

  • Sitting on panels or enquiries.

  • Attending committees.

  • Working across health, public health and social care.

  • Political understanding and contexts.

  • Service development.

  • Health policy, evaluation and economics.

  • Media and communications.

  • Working with non-doctors.

Analysis and review, for example:
  • Policy analysis.

  • Data analysis, research and writing up.

  • Engaging in Cochrane reviews.

  • Developing evidence base for services/care.

  • Inspections.

  • Regulation of healthcare providers.

  • Improving the patient experience.

  • Working with digital online providers.

  • Programme development and evaluation.

Skills development, for example:
  • Developing influencing skills.

  • Presentations.

  • Facilitation.

  • Project management.

  • Professional education.

  • Customer engagement.

  • Engagement with external stakeholders.

Writing and publication, for example:
  • Producing policy and guidance documents.

  • Audit reports.

  • Articles.

  • Project and visit reports.

  • Presentations to committees and so on.