In the UK, medicine and being a doctor has traditionally been seen as a career for the elite or privileged in society. Despite efforts to increase gender parity and ethnic diversity among UK doctors, the lack of people from lower socio-economic backgrounds entering the profession is still a reality.
The statistics below speak for themselves
7
of UK doctors are from working-class backgrounds
80
of medical students come from professional households with more than 25% from private school
3
of consultants are black, 60% are white and black doctors are far less likely to be promoted compared to their white colleagues.
Medicine for all
Promoting Inclusion
MedAhead aims to increase the numbers and success rates of under-represented groups in Medicine. Differential attainment has been well documented amongst lesser represented student bodies and their more populous counterparts. We believe we are uniquely positioned to help mitigate this and aim to support students navigate additional obstacles they face.
Such groups include (but are not limited to):
- Students from low-income households
- Students from areas with low participation in Higher Education
- Students with carer responsibilities
- Minority ethnic groups and refugees
Developing your skills
Celebrating Individuality
At MedAhead we believe that the every individual has a wealth of skills and knowledge to offer. Recognising your own skills can be particularly challenging given the stereotypically “perfect” image of a doctor that is often portrayed. We encourage students to celebrate their individuality and embrace it in their approach to both their career and life.
Building a community
Diversity is a priority
Patients are likely to benefit from a diverse healthcare workforce. The vast array of experience, knowledge, and ability to empathise are integral to a successful healthcare system. From developing rapport with your patients, to managing nuanced psychosocial issues, healthcare professionals are challenged every day to tailor their service to their patients. This bespoke service is only possible by combining the experiences of a broad and varied team.
What are we doing to help?
At MedAhead we believe that the every individual has a wealth of skills and knowledge to offer. Recognising your own skills can be particularly challenging given the stereotypically “perfect” image of a doctor that is often portrayed. We encourage students to celebrate their individuality and embrace it in their approach to both their career and life.
What are we doing to help?
We believe it is imperative that we continue to encourage those with the potential to study medicine to regard it as a viable option, irrespective of their personal circumstances. The MedAhead financial support initiative aims to provide more equitable access to our products. We offer financial assistance through several bursaries, from 25% up to 100%, for both our in-person and virtual summer schools. In order to apply, you must meet the following criteria:
- Have a household income below £25,000
- Neither parents/guardians have attended university
- Attend a non-selective, non-fee-paying school
Special consideration will be given to those who are from particularly vulnerable or underrepresented groups, and each case will be assessed for its individual merits. In addition, you will be required to kindly submit a 300-word cover letter to detail your interest in medicine, and why you would like to attend our summer school. If you are interested, please contact us using the button below.
