Understanding the salary structure for doctor jobs in the UK is crucial for medical professionals at all stages of their careers. This guide provides a detailed overview of doctor pay grades in 2024, covering various positions from resident doctors to consultants and General Practitioners (GPs) in England.
Doctor administering injection to patient, representing medical professionals in the UK and the topic of doctor jobs UK salary.
Resident Doctor Salaries in the UK
Resident doctors, also known as doctors in training, receive a basic salary supplemented by additional payments. These enhancements include compensation for hours exceeding 40 per week, a 37% uplift for night work, weekend allowances, on-call availability pay, and other potential premiums.
During Foundation training, which is the initial stage after medical school, salaries range from £36,616 to £42,008 (effective from April 1, 2024). This foundational period is critical for gaining broad medical experience.
For doctors progressing to specialist training in 2024, the basic salary scale increases to £49,909 to £70,425, reflecting the growing expertise and responsibility at this career stage.
Specialty Doctor and Specialist Grade Pay
Specialty doctors in the UK earn a basic salary between £59,175 and £95,400. For those in the specialist grade, reflecting further experience and qualifications, the salary ranges from £96,990 to £107,155 (from April 1, 2024). These roles represent significant steps in a medical career, with commensurate increases in pay.
Consultant Doctor Salary UK
Consultant roles represent the senior grade for doctors within the NHS. As of March 1, 2024, consultant basic salaries range from £105,504 to £139,882 per year, determined by length of service and experience.
Consultants have opportunities to increase their earnings through Clinical Excellence Awards at both local and national levels. These competitive awards recognize contributions exceeding basic job requirements. Additional responsibilities in management or education also attract higher pay. Furthermore, many consultants supplement their NHS income with private practice, depending on their specialty and availability outside contracted hours.
General Practitioner (GP) Salary in the UK
General Practitioners operate under two main contractual frameworks. They can be independent contractors, managing their own practices as businesses, or salaried GPs, employed by practices or primary care organizations.
Salaried GPs earn between £73,113 and £110,330 per year (from April 1, 2024). Independent contractor GPs’ income varies depending on practice size, patient numbers, and commissioned services.
Further Resources for Doctor Salary Information
For detailed and updated information on Doctor Jobs Uk Salary and pay scales, please visit the NHS Employers website. This resource provides comprehensive pay circulars and guidance for all doctor grades within the National Health Service.
