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Top Insider Advice
All doctors at some point will have a difficult time, and many will have considered leaving medicine or the NHS. That might be why you are reading this! I am very glad that I decided to find a different way to continue my career, and would recommend that anyone having doubts has a look to see what else is available. If you love adventure and a bit of a challenge, the Army is an excellent opportunity. You will need to take 3 years out between FY2 and starting specialty training, but most Army doctors will tell you this is the most enjoyable 3 years of your career! After those 3 years, you will likely have a great looking CV and a much clearer idea of what you want to specialise in. The majority of doctors will stay employed by the Army during the training years, although some may choose to return to the NHS to train, this is usually if they decide to do a specialty that the Army doesn't provide (eg Paediatrics). It has been an excellent career change for me, and I would highly recommend it to anyone.
Career path
GDMO (General Duties Medical Officer)
British Army
From 10/2016 to 08/2019Foundation Year Doctor
National Health Service
From 08/2014 to 08/2016GP Specialty Trainee
British Army
From 08/2019 to 01/2023Company
What do you like about your job and the company?
Greatest achievements
After finishing FY2 I felt like my life had become all about medicine. I had no time to do anything else! So my achievement I am most proud of is nothing to do with medicine. I am most proud that I found a way to learn a new sport and do well at it. I am proud that there is more to my life now than just work, and that I have the time to try new sports and activities and really enjoy my free time. While the army has provided me many opportunities to further my career (they are excellent at supporting courses and helping you build a CV), and I am proud of how I have developed as a clinician over the past few years, they have also provided me with plenty of opportunities to develop myself as a person as well.
Amie P
Top Insider Advice
Someone once told me to never give up on something I was passionate about, but to find a way of making it happen. No matter how long it takes or how many push backs you get, if you are passionate about something, aim to succeed.
Steven -
Supply Chain Operator
Top Insider Advice
I honestly believe it's worth at least trying life in the Army. If you don't like it, you can leave with a story to tell, and you'll have gained some life skills. If you do like it, you'll have a rewarding career that you can be proud of, you'll grow in confidence, find mates for life, and see the world. The army application process is quite unique and it’s an experience in itself. Even if you're unsuccessful you'll have that story to tell and you'll definitely have learned something about yourself. Also, most times, just because you've been unsuccessful doesn't mean you can't try again.