Clinical metrology--a future career grade?

Clinical metrologists have been employed in Leeds for the past seven years. They have come to assume increasing responsibility, particularly in the conduct and recording of clinical trials in the rheumatic diseases. Their work can be extended to the planning of trials, practical procedures, and other research activities. Analysis of 20 applications for a post that recently fell vacant at Leeds suggests that many married women, highly qualified professionally, who have completed their families, would welcome the opportunity to return to part- time nursing duties in "social hours". Increased responsibility and job satisfaction provided by the post compensate for a reduction in salary. Clinical metrology may be a new career grade in the National Health Service that allows for more careful monitoring of patients with a constancy that cannot be achieved with rotating junior medical staff. Physicians can be released from the routine of follow-up, so that they have more time for diagnosis, management of complex problems, and research.