Format/length:	an8
HES item:	CONSULT
National Codes:
Default Codes:	C9999998 - Consultant code not known
	D9999998 - Dentist code not known
	M9999998 - Not applicable - Midwife
	N9999998 - Not applicable - Nurse

Notes:
This is the GMC code for the CONSULTANT, which is the unique identifier for the consultant as a PERSON, i.e. the PERSON IDENTIFIER TYPE classification 'Consultant Code - GMC'. For GPs working as Consultants, the GP's GMC code should be used, see data item note for GMP (CODE OF REGISTERED OR REFERRING GMP).

The GMC code is an eight character alphanumeric code based on the GMC registration number; the first character will be the letter `C'; characters 2 to 7 will be the doctor's GMC number, see PRACTITIONER CODES.

If a dental consultant is not registered with the GMC, the Dentists' Practice Board number has to be used prefixed with D.

For NHS patients treated overseas, the commissioner of the overseas treatment is responsible for ensuring that the overseas doctor is provided with a GMC code. In the case of overseas doctors the default code C9999998 should only be used where no GMC code has been assigned.

All MIDWIFE EPISODES are identified in the Admitted Patient Care CDS and HES by a pseudo main consultant specialty code, 560, see Main Specialty And Treatment Function Codes. A default code is used in the CONSULTANT CODE field to show that a MIDWIFE is the responsible professional. Note that the midwife's own code is not used.

All NURSING EPISODES are identified in the Admitted Patient CDS and HES by a pseudo main consultant specialty code, 950, see Main Specialty And Treatment Function Codes. A default code is used in the CONSULTANT CODE field to show that a NURSE is the responsible professional. Note that the nurse's own Nursing and Midwifery Council code is not used. 

This data element is also known by these names:

Context	Alias
plural	CONSULTANT CODES