Frequently Asked Questions

What experience do I need to have?

With a medical degree there will always be opportunities for you in the pharmaceutical industry, but entry into the industry is very competitive. Many new entrants have some post graduate qualification (MRCP or equivalent). This will greatly increase your value and help with your career progression. It is worth noting that you need to have completed 2 years post clinical training (post foundation modules), in approved posts, in order to be eligible to enrol in Pharmaceutical Medicine Specialist Training (PMST).

What training will be available?

In addition to the structured PMST, most companies will have some “in-house” training, and there will be plenty of people around you, happy to answer any questions you may have. Although not essential, Pharmaceutical Physicians will usually study for and sit the Diploma in Pharmaceutical Medicine exam after 2 years or more in the industry. For more information visit the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Medicines website, www.fpm.org.uk.

Do I need to go back and learn all that pharmacology I learnt at medical school?

It helps to have a good understanding of the first few chapters of your pharmacology textbook concerning pharmacokinetics and drug interactions. You don't need to remember how every class of drug works on the body. You will likely focus on a very specialised area of medicine and therefore you will concentrate your learning on the actions of your drug and the actions of its competitors.

Can I go back to the NHS if I leave now?

A few of my peers have gone back to the clinical practice, after a couple of years in industry. At ST level they had no problems. Leaving at a junior level you should be able to take on another junior post but this may depend on the amount of time you take out. Certain specialities are likely to welcome your new breadth of knowledge more than others. If your current boss supports your move this will probably help so try to get his/her “buy in” if you can.

How much will I earn?

You will likely start on a salary equivalent to your current NHS salary (basic + on call commitment). There are of course other perks such as car allowance, bonuses, share options (in a listed company), private health insurance, mobile phones and laptops. Within a couple of years you will likely be on a salary scale similar to a junior consultant.

How will I be viewed by my peers in clinical practice?

This is not easy to answer. You will probably find friends supportive but there may be some individuals who consider you are “leaving medicine” completely. However, times are changing. NHS consultants generally realise you have an important role to play and your new breadth of knowledge, in your specific area, creates some mutual respect. Pharmaceutical Medicine is a recognised specialty and a training programme exists, similar to your ST peers, leading to GMC specialist registration. It is worth confirming with any prospective employer that they support PMST and offer an approved training environment. If so you can apply for a national training number on entering the industry and you’ll have to undergo the same RITA process as your NHS colleagues. See www.fpm.org.uk for more information.

What are the hours like?

They vary from company to company but generally they’re less than working in the NHS. You may have a weekend meeting, from time to time, but as a rule this is generally infrequent. Don’t think this is an easy option though. The level of work can be intense and working to deadlines will keep you on your toes. There’s certainly no guarantee you’ll be leaving the office on time.

I'm worried I'll miss clinical practice

As a surgeon I thought I would miss operating but the truth is I’ve never really looked back. You become so involved with your new career that your focus changes. Some companies allow, and even encourage, you to work a day, or half a day, in clinical practice. This keeps you up to date, allows you to mix with opinion leaders, and gives you more credibility in some meetings. If you really wish to keep your hand in, there is no harm enquiring about this at the interview.

What's the job security like?

Pharmaceutical companies work in a competitive environment and are subject to political, economical and technological changes. Therefore the industry can never offer as a secure a position as is expected in the NHS. However, career security is good with multiple employers and the ability to switch roles with relative ease. The continually changing environment offers its own challenges that are certain to keep you on your toes.

If you wish to ask any further questions, please contact us, or call Synapse Medical Resourcing on
0207 692 0555.

Best wishes and good luck!

Disclaimer – Although all the information above is up to date at time of release, regulations in medical education change from time to time. For the latest information please contact Synaspe Medical Resourcing.