Studying in the United Kingdom, Pros and Cons. (1)

Written by Haya Abu Shaban, Reviewed by DR. Tamer El Nakhal, Revised by Majed Jaber

Are you thinking of taking the next step into becoming a doctor in the UK? The thought of being a part in one of the world’s best healthcare systems may be indeed tempting. If so, here are a couple of things you should know before taking a bold step into achieving your goals as a doctor in the UK.

Why to study in the UK?

Medical universities in UK

The UK is home to the world’s greatest universities, more than 70 universities in the UK made the (QS World University Ranking) list, many of which are considered as world-leading medical schools, where as a student, you get access to the latest facilities and equipment.

Research

The UK comes world second place for medical research, and second in the world for the highest number of Noble prizes in medicine since 1901, Hence it becomes research attractive, especially if you’d like to become part of this advanced expertise in medical research.

Working hours

Working hours in the UK are somewhat lenient compared to many others, on an average work week you are will be contracted for 48 to 60 hours per week. Depending on the specialty you will get into, for example in surgery , there is a 24 hour on-call service with an emergency theatre that is available, whereas elective work ‘’planned surgeries’’ tend to happen only during the daytime and mostly supervised by consultants. Work-life balance is quite good compared to other places in the world, as you are entitled to annual leaves, maternity leaves, paternity and study leaves, as well as the working hours tend to be hectic but rewarding.  

Salaries

Medical Doctors remain in high demand in the UK, hence most doctors do start applying for jobs via NHS jobs website or indeed as soon as they book their PLAB 2. Some start shadowing or as an attachment placement, then proceed to secure a job. There are a few grades that you can start the job in, all are called ‘’Junior Doctor’’ unless you have the MRCS or Any Royal College Exam then you may apply for ‘’Middle-grade doctor’’, however, all these are Trust grade which means non-training jobs. It is still the best way to kick start you career, as most places require at least 6 months of some sort of UK experience, and it could be your gate to apply for a training post and specialty training.

Why you might not like studying in the UK

Residency Training period

On the contrary, as everywhere else in the world, there are some disadvantages that you may want to know: The training period in the UK is averaging from 3-10 years depending on the specialty, for example, to become a GP ‘’Family Medicine’’ you will need 3 years of specialization, whereas to become a Colorectal surgeon it can take up to 8 years. Normally, most specialty training programs last 6 years. Usually, this could be followed by one year of fellowship to gain experience as a consultant or be subspecialized.
‘’ Medicine is not a Sprint, it is a life-long Marathon ‘’, Dr. Tamer EL-Nakhal.

Highly competitive

The other thing to consider is that you’ll have to give specialty exams that measure you against a high standard. You probably expected that you’re going to have to work and study. 

Financial issues

Most fresh graduates are on the curve to start their financial stability, hence it needs a startup financial support to get you through the exams and visa (circa 6000 US dollars)  until you get your first job (Expected Salary Circa 3000 $ per month), and then you will be able to support yourself or if you wish your family. The United Kingdom is considered an expensive to live country, however, depending on where you choose to live (city wise) would affect your overall living standard. For example, London is the second most expensive city in the world (a room is for 1000$), however, places like Liverpool would be attainable (a room is for 500$). If you are single, then you will be able to save at least one-third of your salary that could be variable if you have dependents like a wife or kids. However, overtime ‘’locum work’’ will boost you a salary where some can reach up to 50 pounds per hour. 

SO?

If you believe the advantages outweigh the disadvantages of studying in the UK, and would like to go through this path, then check out our other articles to help you navigate your way into becoming a trainee doctor in the UK.

Check our next article here: Studying in the United Kingdom, Pros and Cons. (2)