Understanding doctor earnings in the UK is crucial for those in the medical profession or considering it. This guide breaks down the pay scales for different doctor roles in England for 2024, from resident doctors to consultants and GPs.
A doctor administering treatment to a patient, illustrating the vital role and varying earnings of doctors in the UK
Resident Doctor Pay in the UK
Resident doctors, undergoing foundational and specialist training, receive a basic salary augmented by several additional payments. These enhancements include compensation for hours exceeding 40 per week, a 37% uplift for night shifts, weekend allowances, and on-call availability pay.
Doctors in Foundation Year 1 (FY1) and Foundation Year 2 (FY2) training will earn a basic salary ranging from £36,616 to £42,008, effective from April 1, 2024. For doctors commencing specialist training in 2024, the basic salary scale is set between £49,909 and £70,425.
Specialty Doctor and Specialist Grade Pay Scales
Specialty doctors in the UK earn a basic salary ranging from £59,175 to £95,400. Specialist grade doctors, who are in a more senior position, receive a higher basic salary, ranging from £96,990 to £107,155, also effective from April 1, 2024.
Consultant Doctor Salaries
Consultant doctors, senior specialists in their fields, earn a basic salary starting from £105,504 to £139,882 per year as of March 1, 2024. The exact point on this scale depends on their length of service within the role. Consultants also have opportunities to increase their earnings through Clinical Excellence Awards at both local and national levels, recognizing contributions beyond their core responsibilities. Taking on additional responsibilities in areas like management or education can also lead to higher pay.
Furthermore, consultants have the option to supplement their NHS income with private practice, depending on their specialization and desired work-life balance outside of their contracted NHS hours.
General Practitioner (GP) Earnings
General Practitioners operate under two main contractual frameworks. Firstly, they can be independent contractors managing their own practices as businesses, either individually or in partnerships. These GPs have significant autonomy in service delivery as per their agreements with NHS England and are increasingly involved in commissioning hospital services for their communities.
Secondly, GPs can be salaried employees within independent contractor practices or directly employed by primary care organizations. As of April 1, 2024, the salary range for salaried GPs is between £73,113 and £110,330.
Further Resources on Doctor Pay
For a more detailed breakdown of doctor pay scales and related information, please visit the NHS Employers website.
