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Doctors work mainly for the National Health Service and private hospitals, but some work in the pharmaceutical industry, the armed services and research.
What doctors do
- assess the medical condition of patients
- examine patients physically
- use equipment such as blood pressure monitors and stethoscopes in diagnosis and therapy
- devise procedures for patients’ treatment
- liaise with other healthcare staff
- prescribe medicines
- carry out surgical procedures
- keep abreast of the latest medical information
- specialise in a branch of the subject such as surgery, general practice or accident and emergency.
Key skills for doctors
- excellent interpersonal skills
- ability to work long hours, often under pressure
- good practical skills
- ability to solve problems
- effective decision-making skills.
Training to be a doctor
It is essential to undertake a four- or five-year training course to become a doctor. Competition for places as a graduate is fierce. A first or 2.1 degree is the normal requirement and some medical schools prefer science graduates.
A one-year period of basic clinical training in medicine and surgery, and possibly general practice after graduating in medicine is an essential requirement before permission to practise is obtained.
Salaries for doctors
A doctor in their first position would start on a salary of about £20,750, though this typically rises with an out-of-hours allowance and intensity supplement. Consultants typically earn £70,000 to £95,000. An average full-time GP’s salary is £95,000.
