Doctors in the UK play a vital role in diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses and injuries. They work in a variety of settings, from hospitals and GP surgeries to community clinics and research institutions. Doctors can specialise in areas such as general practice, surgery, paediatrics, psychiatry, and many others. The career involves significant responsibility, teamwork, and the ability to make critical decisions under pressure. Most doctors work within the NHS, but some work privately or in academic and research roles. The path to becoming a doctor is competitive and requires strong academic results, compassion, resilience, and dedication.
The average starting salary for a junior doctor (Foundation Year 1) in the NHS is around £32,398 per year, with consultants earning between £93,666 and £126,281 annually.
There are over 140,000 doctors working in the NHS in England as of 2023, with ongoing demand due to staff shortages and an ageing population.
Becoming a doctor typically takes a minimum of 10-16 years, including medical school, foundation training, and specialist training.
A doctor who specialises in the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents.
A doctor who provides primary and continuing care to patients in the community, dealing with a wide range of health issues.
A doctor who specialises in providing anaesthesia and pain management during surgical procedures.
Achieve excellent grades, particularly in science subjects such as Biology and Chemistry at A Level.
Most UK medical schools require at least AAA at A Level, including Biology and Chemistry. Competitive GCSE results, especially in sciences and Maths, are also important. Consider taking additional qualifications or work experience to strengthen your application.
Sit the UCAT or BMAT, entrance exams required by most UK medical schools, and complete a strong university application.
The UCAT and BMAT assess skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific knowledge. Prepare by practising sample questions and attending preparatory courses if needed. Applications are made through UCAS, typically with a personal statement and references.
Attend a GMC-accredited medical school for a 5 to 6 year undergraduate medicine degree.
Medical degrees in the UK combine theoretical study with clinical placements. Some universities offer graduate entry programmes for those who already hold a degree. Expect to spend time in lectures, labs, and on hospital wards as part of your training.
Work as a paid junior doctor in a supervised hospital setting, rotating through various specialties.
The Foundation Programme is a two-year structured training period. FY1 focuses on developing core clinical skills and professional behaviours, with regular assessments and support from senior doctors.
Take on greater responsibility and continue rotating through specialties, preparing for further training.
In FY2, you will begin to manage patients more independently and broaden your experience in different medical settings. By the end of FY2, you will decide which specialty you wish to pursue for further training.
Choose your specialty area, such as General Practice or Surgery, and apply for relevant training posts.
Specialty training can last between 3 and 8 years depending on your chosen field. Entry is competitive and may require passing further exams and interviews. You can choose from areas such as General Practice, Paediatrics, Psychiatry, or Surgery.
Complete all training requirements, pass specialty exams, and gain full registration with the General Medical Council (GMC).
Once you have finished your training and passed the necessary assessments, you will be eligible for a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT). This allows you to practise independently as a consultant or GP in the NHS.
Work as a fully qualified doctor in your chosen specialty in hospitals, GP practices, or clinics.
Once you are fully qualified, you can apply for permanent roles within the NHS or private sector. Continuing professional development is essential to keep up to date with medical advances throughout your career.
Nurses provide medical care and support to patients in hospitals, clinics, and community settings, often working closely with doctors.
Pharmacists are experts in medicines and provide advice and support to patients and healthcare teams regarding medication use and safety.
Physician associates work under the supervision of doctors to diagnose, manage, and care for patients, performing many similar tasks to doctors in clinical settings.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Doctor. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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