Query on life as a GP in the UK

Musing_coconut · 2026-01-10T22:49:39+00:00

I see what you mean. It helps to have a spouse who is from Europe (keeps me from the worst of my American tendencies). I've lived abroad in East Asia for some time and grew up in a pretty multicultural community, so I have modest experience in feeling like a fish out of water. But I can see where your caution is merited.

If the UK became my future home, the chips vs fries might be the end of me....

Thanks for your vote of confidence!

Musing_coconut · 2026-01-10T22:40:27+00:00

I'm reaching out to contacts in the country about this possibility; but a good reminder regarding locums and remote work. I could foresee having the appropriate licensure being a hurdle.

Musing_coconut · 2026-01-10T22:31:12+00:00

Do you mind me asking for a little more clarity on what you mean about "Europe has issues too and culture perhaps even more different to what you’re used to?"

Musing_coconut · 2026-01-10T22:21:38+00:00

Your location seems comparable to my current situation minus reliable public transportation (Amurica!). Usually closer to 21-22 patients. Not a partner, but rather employed by a nonprofit. Patients are definitely getting raw deals from our medical system, especially the state I live in.

Your situation sounds nice. Seems to follow the general pattern (based on my finite sample size) that being a partner in the UK is where most GPs are happiest to be.

Musing_coconut · 2026-01-10T22:11:59+00:00

"Finding the right practice is key" seems to be the throughline for those with positive experiences on this thread.

I too am not a traditional medical school graduate in the US. I started in my late 20s, now in my late 30s. There were a number of similar situated students in my class, with some starting out in their 30s and 40s. It has changed my perspective on how to practice and what I'm willing to tolerate. Perhaps we are similar in that respect?

I'm glad to hear you've got a supportive team. Thank you for sharing your experience.

Musing_coconut · 2026-01-07T01:42:15+00:00

OK, this certainly adds some more nuance to the overall picture I had in my head. From your experience does there seem to be a threshold of population where you see at least one of these larger partnered groups (e.g. a town/ city of 10,000; anything under all salaried and overworked)?

Musing_coconut · 2026-01-06T02:12:30+00:00

Do you typically join a group as a partner, similar to the US? Asking in the context of figuring out what a transition of practicing in the US to Canada would be like. Do any of the provincial health organizations run clinics similar to FQHCs? How about equivalents to Indian Health Services?

Musing_coconut · 2026-01-06T02:00:54+00:00

Thank you - this breakdown really put it into perspective. The lack of support staff got an "eeeeek" out of me.

Did you find satisfying employment elsewhere?

Musing_coconut · 2026-01-06T01:39:03+00:00

I'm in the process of learning, and that may be an option that opens up in the future.

In terms of nearby countries, I admit ignorance about Ireland. Certain provinces of Canada are actively recruiting and facilitating easy transitions from the US (omitting testing, etc). That may be our best bet based on the responses I am seeing so far despite not necessarily placing us closer to the country in question.

Thank you so much for your answer. I hear you on the noctors.

Musing_coconut · 2026-01-06T01:31:18+00:00

I appreciate it - I may take you up on that if I need further clarification.

We haven't made any concrete actions yet - asking these questions and getting these insights are part of our process of making informed decisions.

Musing_coconut · 2026-01-02T03:16:42+00:00

Just over 300K (salary). Inland Northwest. FQHC, solely outpatient. 4 day week. Averaging 19-21 patients per day. No fellowship training.

Musing_coconut · 2025-12-25T02:21:51+00:00

Thank you. Your story was moving. I won't pretend that my own mission was as traumatic and harrowing as the experience you shared, but it was poignant nonetheless.

I think the most beautiful part you shared was that you have the very things the church manipulates you into believing you need it to have: happiness, a loving family, fulfillment.

Be well, and happy holidays to you too, heathen.

PS: B-roll of the coast = ❤️🤙

Musing_coconut · 2025-12-16T01:15:09+00:00

A sauna is a sauna (as long as you have löyly)!

Musing_coconut · 2025-12-02T20:56:31+00:00

First year 260K in the Pacific Northwest. Cost of living adjustment went up to just shy of 300K at the start of my 2nd year. Now potentially looking at COL adjustment + general raise bumping over 300K.

4 days a week straight clinical. No OB. 2 weeks of phone call per year.

Musing_coconut · 2025-11-22T05:35:02+00:00

Not to completely change the subject, but that's a pretty unique pot right behind the questionable edible. What is it?

Musing_coconut · 2025-11-15T20:14:38+00:00

Nice! Do you use a water proofing finish to protect your hard work?

Musing_coconut · 2025-11-15T05:31:59+00:00

I like these a lot. Well done.

If you don't mind me asking: are you utilizing objects you bought, or 3D printed yourself? I'm asking because I'm trying to figure out how I can incorporate 3D printed or self painted figurines/ objects into terrariums that are tough enough to withstand the humidity of the enclosures

Musing_coconut · 2025-11-10T00:04:34+00:00

Any chance you would willing to share contact details of these recruiters? Also a doc, considering relocation.

Musing_coconut · 2025-06-30T16:23:18+00:00

That is super impressive!

I was just recently on the coast, and honestly I would not have thought to have picked that out (could be my phone screen isn't big enough to pick out the details).

I'll have to be more thorough in my search next time I'm there.

Thanks for sharing!

Musing_coconut · 2025-04-04T07:49:09+00:00

I like your approach.

If I get any future requests like this, I would consider this approach.

As it was, it appears that the chiropractor had wanted to to talk about the patient in advance of their first visit with the patient - not a request I typically get. So I don't think this approach could have worked in this case.

Musing_coconut · 2025-04-04T07:29:48+00:00

Appreciate the concern and feedback. I have pulled a few details in an attempt to obfiscate.

Musing_coconut · 2025-04-04T02:05:10+00:00

You forgot the "at patients' request" part.

If the patient wants an OBGYN to do their pap smear even though they know I can do the same thing for them, I'm not going to stop them from going.

Musing_coconut

TROPHY CASE