I joined the Army as a medical officer when I left university. When I left the Army to focus on my family I worked as a sessional GP in the NHS and then did some locum work for the Ministry of Defence before becoming an MoD GP 14 years ago. I left NHS general practice due to the difficulty of balancing childcare, clinical demands and personal development.

In the MoD, I became qualified as a military aviation medical examiner and looked after fast jet pilots, I completed the underwater medicine course to manage the military divers, became an appraiser and have done these roles alongside delivering general practice to both serving personnel and their families. My current role is delivering occupational health to reservists and a year ago I became a civilian representative on the BMA armed forces committee.

Although my role is similar in many ways to NHS general practice the majority of my patients are serving personnel, meaning I work within a unique healthcare system focused on maintaining operational effectiveness. There is a strong emphasis on evidence-based medicine, prevention, and ensuring military personnel remain fit for duty. The majority of MoD GPs are UK-based but there are also opportunities to work abroad on both a temporary and permanent basis.

One of the standout benefits of working in the MoD is the job structure. GPs are employed under civil service terms, which means clear working hours, protected admin time, and access to benefits such as maternity leave, sick pay, and pension contributions. The working day is predictable, and there is a real focus on maintaining a sustainable workload.

MoD GPs have five days of CPD each year, with a grant of £500 towards this, as well as in house CPD training. There is flexibility in working arrangements, including part-time roles and job-sharing options, making it a viable choice for those looking to balance work with family life.

Maternity leave and other entitlements, including salary sacrifice for childcare, align with civil service policies, offering security that many GPs in private or locum roles may not have. In my experience, the MoD is supportive of professional development, encouraging GPs to undertake additional training, whether in occupational medicine, sports medicine, or leadership roles within military healthcare.

There is the opportunity to get involved with quality improvement roles such as managed clinical networks and six days of approved volunteering leave each year. I walked along the Western Front providing medical cover for veterans and volunteers raising money for The Soldiers’ Charity.

For those considering a career shift, there are various ways to explore MoD GP roles. Jobs are typically advertised on Civil Service Jobs or NHS Jobs, and sessional GPs can also find locum opportunities through agencies that work with the MoD. Speaking to current MoD GPs can provide insight into the reality of the role, and I’d encourage anyone interested to reach out and ask about the day-to-day experience.

Working as an MoD GP has been a rewarding change, offering a balance between clinical challenge and professional satisfaction. It’s a role that allows you to practise medicine in a supportive environment while still making a meaningful difference. If you’re looking for something different in your career, it’s well worth considering.