Warning of NHS staffing crisis as fifth of doctors tempted to move abroad
One in five NHS doctors wants to leave UK
- The General Medical Council (GMC) has warned that doctor retention in the UK is at risk, with 19 per cent considering working abroad.
- The primary reasons cited for doctors considering leaving are being “treated better” in other countries and the prospect of better pay.
- This potential exodus threatens Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's pledge to reduce NHS waiting lists, specifically his target for 92 per cent of patients to be seen within 18 weeks by July 2029.
- The GMC's report also highlighted concerns about career progression, with one in three doctors feeling unable to advance, contributing to burnout and a higher likelihood of seeking work overseas.
- The warning comes amidst ongoing strike action by resident doctors over pay, with the British Medical Association (BMA) and Health Secretary Wes Streeting engaged in further negotiations.