Specialist doctor Salary UK
Salary data from ONS ASHE for the occupation group “Specialist medical practitioners” (SOC 2212). Some figures may be unavailable due to small sample sizes.
Pay by career stage and region: Doctor salary by region · Doctor salary Northern Ireland
About this role
Specialist medical practitioners diagnose, treat and prevent illness and disease, providing direct patient care or specialist medical services. They work across primary care, hospitals and specialist clinics, following evidence-based clinical practices.
Key responsibilities
- Examining, diagnosing and treating patients
- Prescribing medication and treatment plans
- Referring patients to specialist services when required
- Maintaining accurate medical records
- Participating in clinical governance and continuing professional development
Qualifications and entry routes
Requires an MBBS or equivalent medical degree (5-6 years), followed by Foundation Programme (2 years) and specialty training (3-8 years depending on specialisation). Full GMC registration is mandatory.
Career outlook
Persistent workforce shortages across the NHS. High demand in primary care, emergency medicine and psychiatry. Overseas recruitment is significant.
Key skills
Common industries
- NHS
- Private healthcare
- Primary care
- Hospital medicine
- Public health