NHS Employers respond to research showing thousands of doctors considering leaving the UK

Responding to General Medical Council (GMC) research showing thousands of doctors could be considering leaving UK practice Danny Mortimer, chief executive of NHS Employers, said:

“The last thing our members want in the face of mounting demand is for doctors to up sticks and leave the UK for good.  We have very little idea how many doctors move abroad permanently though, and we would be keen for the GMC to publish this data so that the NHS and the public can see the scale of the problem. 

“At the same time thinking about leaving, even if it is not followed through, is of concern. We accept that improvements are needed in the training and working lives of doctors. As this survey shows, general improvements to workplace conditions could have the biggest impact on retention and we are working closely with NHS England to address systemic issues which would doctors tell us improve matters.”