Looking after your health

Looking after your own mental and physical health is important as a doctor. Any problems with your health could have an impact on your judgment and performance and lead to concerns about patient safety. The GMC expect doctors to manage their own health and seek and follow appropriate medical advice (Good Medical Practice, paragraph 28) when necessary.

It is equally important for medical students to also keep their health in check, from year one and throughout the course. While it isn’t possible to attend teaching sessions at the moment, some of you may be volunteering on the wards and helping out. There may be other times, once the pandemic is over, when you are unwell and it would be better for you, your tutors and your fellow students and patients for you not to attend. If you’re unwell during the coronavirus outbreak, you should self-isolate in line with national advice.

You may be concerned that you have a pre-existing medical condition that puts you at increased risk during these unprecedented times. If so, you should discuss this with your medical school and, if appropriate, your own GP or consultant.

If you are on the wards or in another clinical environment during the coronavirus outbreak you should be provided with the appropriate equipment, such as protective clothing, and be given the necessary advice and information to minimise the risk of transmission of the virus.

The GMC has a dedicated area for medical students on its website.

While there are many existing sources of support for members, there are also additional services, some launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These include:

new NHS wellbeing support helpline
NHS Practitioner Health COVID support helpline.

Health and wellbeing during the coronavirus outbreak

Health and wellbeing during the coronavirus outbreak