The real world of medicine

The real world of medicine

Alumni Doug explains how studying medicine with INTO prepared him for life as a medical professional, and where his career has taken him since he entered the world of medicine.

I have always been fascinated by the biology and psychology of humanity as well as the challenges and rewards of being a doctor. I wanted a career which is demanding and diverse, requiring the ability to learn quickly, to make difficult decisions and to work well in teams; a career as a doctor requires these and much more.

The practice of medicine necessitates complex interactions with patients which require skills that are as much an art as they are a science.

INTO was an excellent place for my undergraduate training. The teaching and clinical experience was of an extremely high standard and there were also ample opportunities for extracurricular activities. There are many clubs and societies too!

Later in my undergraduate training, I left to complete a History of Medicine BSc at University College London.

Studying medicine is not only about book-work but requires a work-life balance and a focus on patients.

Seeing patients, examining and taking clinical histories are the basis of medical practice which improves through repeated exposure. Having the hospital integrated with the medical school meant these clinical and communication skills could easily be developed through multiple patient interactions on the wards where knowledge can be put into practice.

After graduating I spent my first year working at St George’s Hospital and also studied for a Post Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Education.

In terms of my career, I am completing my training to become a GP and I have extended my final year of specialist training to become a Darzi Fellow and study for a Post Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Management and Leadership, which involves a one-year part-time programme to develop myself and to work on areas of clinical improvement projects for the NHS whilst also practicing as a GP in central London.

The work I do now is rewarding, challenging and varied; General Practice is a specialist field in itself, requiring a breadth of clinical knowledge and excellent communication skills which provides a unique and privileged doctor-patient relationship.