How is medicine in the UK practiced differently than medicine in the US, or elsewhere?

In my experience practicing medicine in both the UK and the US (Fellowship in Denver), I’ve noticed significant differences in healthcare delivery.

I have also worked in India and Australia!!!

The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) offers universal healthcare, providing free or low-cost medical services to residents, ensuring broad access to treatments without financial burden. Conversely, the US relies heavily on a private healthcare system, where insurance or out-of-pocket payments fund services, leading to varied accessibility and affordability.

The UK health system is innovating with new efficient approaches, but this can add pressure and overwhelm to physicians, necessitating measures to prevent stress and burnout before it becomes an issue. Both institutions and professionals need to prioritize well-being to maintain productivity and provide the best possible care.

 

Is medicine better or worse in the healthcare system of the UK? Can you provide some specifics?

Having worked in the NHS for 18 years, I can say that it is a great healthcare system.

The positives include it being state-run and providing citizens with access to the best care, free at the point of use. However, like any healthcare system, the NHS faces challenges.

Notably, there are often long wait times for certain non-urgent procedures and specialist consultations due to high demand and limited resources. The quality of healthcare can vary from person to person, depending on individual needs, medical conditions, and specific circumstances.

While the NHS has strengths, there are also areas that require improvement, as is the case with any healthcare system.

 

 

Being that your book is centered around ‘burnout’, we can assume UK doctors experience this like American doctors do. What do you feel is at the heart of burnout?

I believe that as a busy professional, I take my work extremely seriously, and that dedication is crucial. However, I’ve come to realize that going above and beyond can leave me feeling overwhelmed and at risk of burnout.

That’s why I’ve embraced the idea of having a side-gig, pursuing a second passion that keeps me engaged in something outside of my primary focus, which, in my case, is medicine.

I’ve found that having this additional passion has been essential for preventing burnout. It allows me to find joy and fulfillment beyond my primary work and helps maintain a healthier work-life balance. When I immerse myself in this other interest, whether it’s a hobby, a creative pursuit, or a different field of study, I feel reinvigorated and more resilient to the pressures of my primary profession.

 

 

By loving something else in addition to my primary passion, life remains a pleasure. It’s not just about achieving success in my career but also finding personal contentment and happiness in other areas. Having diverse interests has made me feel more well-rounded and better equipped to handle the challenges that come with my professional responsibilities.

I’ve come to understand that burnout is not just about how much work I do, but also about finding balance, purpose, and meaning beyond my primary vocation. So, I encourage myself and others to explore different passions and interests outside of work. By nurturing these side pursuits, I can prevent burnout, maintain my well-being, and lead a more fulfilling life overall.

 

 

Do you feel like there are reasonable and sustainable solutions for recovering from burnout (not to be confused with preventive measures)? What are some examples?

Yes, there are reasonable and sustainable solutions for recovering from burnout.

Taking time off, seeking support, setting boundaries (My book has strategies and examples), practising relaxation techniques, reconnecting with hobbies, gradually returning to work, and seeking professional help can all contribute to a successful recovery from burnout and improve overall well-being.

 

Your book summary uses the word “empower”. How do you believe a book can empower another human?

Through books (and courses), I have the opportunity to empower others in a deeply personal way.

By sharing my experiences and knowledge, I can connect with readers and professionals, offering insights and practical tools for burnout prevention and the art of writing.

It’s a chance to inspire positive change, unlock creativity, and help individuals discover their potential for growth and fulfillment.

Through these mediums, I hope to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others and foster a sense of empowerment and possibility.

 

 

We’re proud to have you in our ‘Doctor Side Ventures’ FB group, where we’ve already started talking about side ventures like writing. What do you hope to see more of in this new group?

As a best-selling author myself, I am eager to share my wealth of experience in writing, offering valuable insights and guiding aspiring authors on their journey to success.

My “book writing course” is a culmination of my own learnings and techniques that have contributed to my success as an author.

By providing aspiring writers with the tools, knowledge, and encouragement they need to unleash their creativity and hone their craft, I hope to inspire a new generation of best-selling authors.

It brings me immense joy to think that I can pass on nuggets of wisdom and practical advice, helping others find their unique voices and sharing their stories with the world. This endeavor is not only about teaching the mechanics of writing but also about instilling confidence and igniting the passion for storytelling, ensuring that the potential “best seller authors” within each student have the chance to flourish.

 

Do you believe that writing and publishing a book will help make you a better doctor? What do you hope that it will achieve?

Yes, I firmly believe that writing and publishing a book will help make me a better doctor.

By sharing my experiences and insights, I can deepen my understanding of medicine, empathy, and human connection. Research while writing a book broadens my knowledge and nurtures my hungry grey cells.

I hope that my book will inspire positive change in the lives of others, provide valuable knowledge and support, and foster a stronger sense of community among healthcare professionals and patients alike.

 

 

Did you publish traditionally, use the hybrid method, or self-publish? How was this process for you?

I self-published my book after facing setbacks with traditional publishing, and though the process was labour-intensive, it was also exhilarating.

I encourage anyone contemplating a writing course to stop procrastinating and embark on this journey.

It’s a rewarding experience that allows you to share your unique voice and insights with the world, regardless of the obstacles you may encounter along the way. Embrace the challenge and start the journey towards making your aspirations a reality.

 

VC: dancedivines, Curation: Dana Corriel, MD

 

Do you have any tips for those who wish to publish a book? Valuable lessons learned?

Writing a book is indeed both an art and a gift.

By penning our experiences, insights, and stories, we create a legacy that can be cherished by generations to come.

The satisfaction of sharing our unique voice and leaving a lasting impact on readers’ lives is incredibly fulfilling and rewarding.

It is a chance to immortalize our thoughts and emotions, connecting with others on a profound and timeless level.

 

How did your book become a #1 bestseller on Amazon in such a short period of time?

The right strategy is indeed crucial when writing a book.

I procrastinate for a short period until I do thorough research and once the iron is hot, I strike!

My second book called “Caressing Careers” is in its editing stage and let me declare that it will be an, Amazon Best seller as well!!

Understanding the needs and expectations of the readers should be the primary focus, rather than solely catering to personal desires. The book becomes more meaningful and impactful by aligning the content with what the audience seeks and addressing their interests, challenges, and desires.

It’s about connecting with the readers and providing them with valuable insights, information, or entertainment that resonates with their preferences and requirements.

 

A book becomes more meaningful and impactful by aligning the content with what the audience seeks and addressing their interests, challenges, and desires. Click To Tweet

 

We found past work of yours that says you’re an entrepreneur. Can you tell us about that?

In my spare time, I have passionately worked on various projects that have led to significant achievements.

I take immense pride in developing a “Knee Medical device” and securing 17 granted patents, a testament to my dedication and innovative mindset.

Additionally, I’ve successfully created two healthcare and one coaching software, which have been fulfilling ventures.

The cherry on top is being selected as a Clinical entrepreneur, recognizing my expertise in the field. Currently, I am working on a coaching-wellbeing software, and I’m thrilled to share that it has its Minimum Viable Product (MVP) ready. The excitement and anticipation for the future are beyond words!

I am eagerly looking forward to the positive impact these endeavours will have on the world.

 

Want to shout out any particular figure you met online (another author, celebrity, friend) that has had an impact on you? We’d love to let them know they’ve made a difference.

I love Kevin MD! He is a renowned medical blogger and commentator, and learning from his insights would undoubtedly be a valuable experience.

Meeting someone who has made a significant impact in the medical field through their writing and expertise can provide valuable knowledge and perspectives.

 

If you could travel anywhere in the world and stay there for a few months, off the grid, to explore, where would it be?

Traveling to Hawaii, a dream destination on my bucket-list, promises a refreshing escape and a picturesque setting that will bring stillness to my soul.

The relaxing beauty will provide me with the energy and inspiration needed to work more passionately and productively upon my return.