General Practice(GP) Training: Is it worth it?

 GP training is a popular choice amongst IMGs. Let’s find out what are the pros and cons associated with it so that you can take a more informed decision before getting into this training pathway.

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Pros of GP training

1. Less competition

Competition ratios are quite less for GP training posts as compared to other specialties like Surgery or Radiology.

Competition ratios for GP training posts

2. Short duration of training

The duration of training is 3 years. 

This is very less in comparison to other specialties like Surgery or Internal medicine where you have to train for 5–10 years to become a consultant.

3. Ability to choose working hours

After becoming a GP, you can choose whether you want to work part-time as a locum/ out-of-hours GP or as a salaried GP.

This gives a huge advantage in terms of work-life balance.

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4. Ability to choose your work and take additional responsibilities

The flexibility of GP allows you to work in different settings. 

You can become a touring doctor with a sports team or can become a cosmetic practitioner in a big city. You can be a ship doctor or become an academician/writer. 

You can also train for a longer duration and becoming GP with a special interest in the field you want. The possibilities are endless.

5. Earning potential

If you own a private GP surgery, you own a business. The ability to gain profits depends on your abilities then.

There is also scope for more locum work / out-of-hours work, which pays well. 

6. Freedom to move to other countries

MRCGP is valid in countries like Australia, Canada, and in the middle east. You get the freedom to move countries after GP training.

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Cons of GP training

1. Limited resources in GP settings

Unlike hospitals, you cannot investigate your patients completely. This can make decision-making challenging.

2. Work overload in bigger cities

GPs are overburdened in bigger cities due to the limited number of general practitioners serving a bigger population. Short staffing due to less number of trained GPs impacts the work-life balance in some locations.

3. MRCGP not recognized in the home country

This can be an issue for IMGs from India/ Pakistan where there is no concept of GP training in their country.

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