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Creating a Physician CV That Shines

Career resources content posted on NEJM CareerCenter is produced by freelance health care writers as an advertising service of NEJM Group, a division of the Massachusetts Medical Society and should not be construed as coming from, or representing the views of, the New England Journal of Medicine , NEJM Group, or the Massachusetts Medical Society.

Simple format, brevity, and absolute accuracy — and avoiding including extraneous details — are musts.

By Bonnie Darves

Physician residents and fellows who start writing their curriculum vitae (CV) usually approach the task expecting that it will be a straightforward matter of letting the world know where they’ve been and what they’ve done, in a document that is about three pages in length. In theory, that’s about right. In practice, however, many young physicians, especially those about to launch their first job search, quickly find themselves sweating the details. They wrestle with how much detail to include and how to structure their CV as the selling tool they intend it to be: a document that sets them apart from the crowd.

Fretting a bit about getting it right is not a bad thing, say recruiters and physicians who are on the receiving end and who review scores of CVs each year. Too often, young physicians don’t take the time to ensure that their CV is not only polished and error-free, but also an accurate reflection of important accomplishments that prospective employers care about.

John D. “Jack” Buckley, MD, vice chair for education in the department of medicine at Indiana University School of Medicine, frequently encounters CVs that leave out the kinds of details that might be differentiators: committee work, quality-improvement initiative involvement, medical student teaching or mentoring, or even assistance on a hospital IT project.

“Ideally, everything that is on your work calendar should be on your CV, and there should be a brief description and timeline of those roles or assignments,” said Dr. Buckley. In his experience, residents usually include their research work but sometimes leave out these kinds of quasi-extracurricular activities, thus missing an opportunity to demonstrate their willingness to go above and beyond what’s required of them.

Sapna Kuehl, MD, director of the internal medicine residency at Saint Agnes Healthcare in Baltimore, Maryland, also urges physicians to briefly describe their roles in committee, task force, or initiative work, and associated accomplishments. “People who are hiring physicians out of training are looking for evidence of dedication and persistence,” she said.

Format: keep it simple

Choosing a CV format is perhaps the easiest aspect of preparing a professional-looking CV. Examples abound online, and most training programs provide a recommended template for physicians seeking structure guidance. The basic content and suggested order of information appearance, for trainees seeking an initial practice opportunity, are as follows:

• Name and contact information
• Education, undergraduate through internships, residencies, and fellowships — including specific clinical roles and any leadership roles
• Licensure (status of applications planned or underway, if any)
• Board certification or status
• Professional experience (medicine-related only), including procedure and patient volumes, if/as applicable to the specialty, and administrative roles or duties
• Activities and committee memberships, including roles and brief descriptions of associated accomplishments
• Honors, awards, and professional affiliations
• Publications and presentations

All dated entries should be chronologically arranged on the page from present to past, in a month/year format. Physicians should be prepared to explain any gap of more than three months in a conversation or a cover letter, all sources agreed, and should never attempt to “fudge” or cover up a gap. “A gap can be a red flag to a recruiter, even if the reason is completely understandable,” said Laura Schofield, a recruiter with Boston-based Atrius Health, which employs approximately 950 physicians.

Christopher Shireman, who is chief executive officer of Western Neurosurgery Ltd., in Tucson, Arizona, and has vetted scores of physician candidates over his 20 years in health care leadership, expects physicians to explain any sizable timeline gaps in an accompanying cover letter, not in the body of the CV. “I had one candidate who had a one-year gap before medical school, who spent that year working in an emergency room. In another case, the candidate took off a year during training to take care of his dying mother,” Mr. Shireman said. “Most of the time, it’s just a matter of letting people know why there’s a gap.”

Regarding date and timeline entries, physicians should doublecheck all dates before finalizing the document and ensure that the CV is up to date, according to Jeffery Johns, MD, medical director of the Vanderbilt Stallworth Rehabilitation Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee. “It’s important that your CV is up to date as of the day you send it. If you have an entry that reads ‘2013–present,’ for example, ensure that’s correct,” said Dr. Johns. Failing to address such an important detail reflects poorly on the physician. “When I review CVs, I am looking for meticulous attention to detail.”

The CV should be rendered in a simple sans serif font in an easily readable font size — at least 11 or 12 points — and physicians should stick to a single font and size, and a very simple presentation format. “Remember that this is not an art contest,” Dr. Buckley said.

Brenda Reed, who is director of physician and medical staff recruitment at Atrius Health, considers a “busy” CV — one with several fonts or font sizes, or documents that contain graphics — not only annoying but also cause for mild suspicion. It can give the impression that the physician is trying too hard. “I have seen a beautiful CV hide a candidate who had serious performance issues or other problems, so I am a bit wary when I see a fancy CV,” she said.

In that same vein, Dr. Johns recommends that physicians who are preparing hard copies of their CVs to hand out at conferences or job fairs use a decent-quality paper stock — something slightly heavier than 20 lb. bond copier paper — but nothing dense, elaborate, or textured.

Keep recipient in mind

Rita Essaian, DM, MHA, executive administrator, human resources, at the Southern California Permanente Medical Group (SCPMG), which employs more than 9,000 physicians, stresses the importance of ensuring that the CV is error-free and professional in appearance. “The CV should be crisp, clean, and clearly written — no grammar or spelling errors — but also succinct,” Ms. Essaian said. SCPMG hired between 500 and 900 physicians annually in the past three years, and its recruiters receive more than 4,000 CVs in a given year, she explained. A recent cardiology position posting, for example, attracted 100 CVs. Given such volume, a physician whose CV is illegible, error-ridden, or difficult to follow might not make the first cut.

“Physicians should always have their CVs reviewed and proofread before sending them,” Ms. Essaian said. She added that potential candidates reaching out about a particular posted position should also ensure that the CV and cover letter clearly indicate relevance to the position of interest. The recruiters who do the initial screening, she said, will first match CVs to posted opportunities, and also screen on the basis of criteria the department chief provides before forwarding CVs to reviewing physicians.

Dr. Buckley agreed. “Residents and fellows should always have someone they trust review their CV draft,” he said. Several sources recommended that trainees whose first language is not English should seek professional help crafting and polishing the document if such services are not readily available through their program.

Physicians should also pay attention to seemingly minor formatting details that, if not handled properly, could frustrate potential readers who review scores of CVs as part of their job. Page numbers and an identifying footer including the physician’s name should appear on all pages. Further, ensure that the document’s file name isn’t cryptic, urges Ms. Reed. “One of my pet peeves is when candidates send a perfectly lovely CV, but then name the file ‘myCV.’ Always think about how something will be received on the other end,” she said, because attachments can and do get separated from the email message. She and other sources gave their votes to file names that start with the physician’s last name, followed by first name.

Finally, it’s advisable to prepare the CV in PDF format. That’s not a guarantee that the CV won’t be altered by a recipient — unfortunately, this does happen, recruiters said. Using a PDF is a deterrent, at least, because someone who decides to alter the document for whatever reason would have to first go through the trouble of converting it to another file format.

What to include, or possibly exclude

Regarding information that should not be included in the physician CV, sources interviewed for this article had mixed opinions in some cases. Most sources advised against residents including a career statement or job objective at the top, below contact details. That information is usually more appropriate for a cover letter or accompanying email note, unless its inclusion in the CV is requested.

There might be exceptions, however, depending on the employer. The Permanente medical groups’ recruiters and physician reviewers appreciate seeing a brief opening statement in a CV, especially if the physician has been in practice for several years. “In those cases, we really like to see a half-page career summary on the first page,” Ms. Essaian said. Another reasonable exception, several sources acknowledged, might be for internal medicine physicians who know that they only want a hospitalist position, not an outpatient practice job.

Regarding whether cover letters or explanatory notes should be supplied with CVs, the general consensus was that doing so is usually helpful and is definitely in the category of “can’t hurt.” At the very least, the accompanying document provides an opportunity for the physician to state why she or he is interested in either the organization or a posted position.

Dr. Kuehl, who favors a brief personal statement or cover letter, advises that the document should be employer focused. “It shouldn’t be too ‘I’ focused,” she said. “It’s an opportunity to talk about what you would bring to the organization that might distinguish you from other candidates — such as work in population management, IT expertise, patient counseling skills, or practice improvement experience,” she said.

Ms. Essaian noted that her organization also likes to see evidence in the cover letter that the candidate has gone to the effort to learn something about Kaiser Permanente health plan and its medical groups, which are independent entities that care for health plan members.

Sources offered mixed opinions on whether to include test scores. The general consensus was that unless the scores are very high, such as 220 or higher on the USMLE, it’s best not to include them.

Some recruiters and physicians favored a final section that lists personal interests and hobbies; others considered such detail extraneous. Ms. Essaian, for instance, said that her organization prefers not to see any personal details. Those who voted for including personal interests stressed the importance of employing brevity — two lines at most — and, of course, using good judgment in choosing what to reveal.

“I appreciate knowing a little bit about physician candidates’ interests — if they like hiking or snorkeling or skiing, for example, because that often helps with icebreakers and gives me a sense of who they are,” said Ms. Reed.

In the hobbies category, short-and-sweet is a must, according to Janet Jokela, MD, MPH, acting regional dean at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Urbana. “I counsel residents that they don’t need to include their interests. But if they do, it should be a simple, short list, separated by commas, with no explanatory detail,” she said. “A resident who once asked me to review his CV draft had included three sentences on his basement home-brewing operation — not advisable.”

Mr. Shireman, who has reviewed numerous physician specialists’ CVs, appreciates knowing about candidates’ personal interests for the same reason Ms. Reed cites. “Especially in an intense field like neurosurgery, I want to see that information — just a line or two — because it shows me they’re human and that they have a life outside of medicine,” he said.

The issue of whether to include a photo elicited varying responses, but most sources advised against including one — and definitely not embedded in the CV document — unless a photo is requested. “There is always the possibility of unconscious bias, so I think it’s best to avoid including one,” Dr. Buckley said. Ms. Schofield noted that some training programs encourage their international medical graduates to send photos and that some hospitals seeking candidates may require them, though she herself opposes the idea.

It should go without saying that physicians should never inflate, embellish, or mischaracterize their achievements in an attempt to give a better impression. Besides being dishonest, such tactics are likely to backfire at some point, with potentially career-damaging repercussions. “Honesty and complete accuracy are the most important aspects of a CV. Physicians should never inflate anything,” Dr. Jokela said.

Sources agreed that physicians should keep to the standard order of information appearance while attempting to position potentially distinguishing details on the first page, if possible. “Residents and fellows who have received awards or special recognition should consider moving up that information so that it appears on the first page, if it’s not too awkward to do so,” said Dr. Jokela. At the very least, she added, important awards shouldn’t be buried at the bottom of the document.

There appears to be general agreement that the following information generally should not be included on the physician CV, under most circumstances:

Birthdates, Social Security numbers, and any other official identification number. These should be excluded for both security and bias-avoidance reasons.

Marital status. This detail falls under the category of extraneous information, all sources agreed. Besides, if a candidate proceeds to a site interview or even a formal pre-interview call, that detail will likely emerge in the context of a conversation, even though recruiters and individuals involved in hiring are prohibited by law from asking for such information.

References. Including references before they’ve been requested can give a recipient the wrong impression. And besides, Mr. Shireman points out, references usually won’t be checked until a candidate has completed a site interview and the organization is considering setting a second site interview or drafting an offer. “Listing references before they’re asked for can make it look like you’re trying too hard,” he said.

Extensive publication details. Ideally, the publication citations should include only the basic details — the article author(s), title, and journal name and publication date.

Conference attendance. Several sources mentioned that they have occasionally received residents’ CVs that list conferences attended. This isn’t an important detail, except in cases when the resident gave a presentation or talk at the conference. That information would go under the category of invited speeches/presentations, below publications.

CV length and ‘version control’

The ideal length for a physician CV varies depending on the individual and the type of position being sought. In most cases, residents’ CVs can and should be rendered in a few pages (three or fewer) unless the trainee happens to have an unusually extensive research or publishing history.

Most sources thought that a single CV version should suffice in most cases, but several noted that there might be situations that warrant creating a short and long version. Physicians seeking a research position, for instance, might create a short version including the basics and a longer version detailing their research interests and accomplishments, and then offer recipients the opportunity to receive the longer one. Likewise, physicians seeking an administrative position or one in which special skills in health care IT are a plus, for example, might craft an additional document or addendum that describes their related experience.

“In most cases, a longer-version CV is really more appropriate for senior faculty members than for young physicians,” Dr. Jokela said.

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Preparing your medical CV

• CVs and Interviews

Prepare early

Doctors should start putting together a rolling CV that collates essential information, such as dates of placements and skills learned. It is worth doing this as early on in your career as possible, beginning as a medical students, says Kate Lovett, dean of the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

“Your CV is a bit like a shop window - it involves an element of selling yourself,” says David Evans, RCPCH vice president for training and assessment. Many doctors are generally not particularly good at selling themselves, and their CVs can read like “directories of factual information with data they think will sell itself,” he says.

A CV is an opportunity to “show off what you can do”, says Lovett. It should be “a summary of peoples experience and skills and can be used for multiple purposes so it can be used to apply for a job to demonstrate that experience and skills to other people in a job interview process”, she says. It can also be used for other purposes such as appraisal and as a personal aid memoir about career progress and reflection, she adds.

These days, many applications for posts are made using an online form. But being able to create an effective CV remains a valuable skill, and CVs may still be required, and still have relevancy as a means to promote yourself. A CV is still very useful because writing it crystallises your thoughts about how you are going to sell yourself, and it will also help you when it comes to the interview process,” Evans says. “It’s a personal thing, it shows your personality, and it’s a lasting memory to give a potential employer.”

There is further advice on what questions you can ask about yourself to help your CV in this article about how appreciative inquiry can help you write a better medical CV: https://www.bmj.com/content/351/bmj.h5152

It might be tempting to simply cut and paste your CV to an application for a post. But such short cuts “aren’t good enough,” Lovett says. “Every CV needs to be tailored to the job”, she says.

With each application you should look at the person specification, qualifications, and skills required and to tailor your CV to highlighting those requirements. “So if you need to demonstrate excellent communication skills, you could give an example of positive team feedback you’ve had,” Lovett suggests. To help ensure doctors’ CVs meet the requirements of the post they are applying for, clinicians should “think about who their audience is, and the messages they are giving a prospective employer about their character, skills and professionalism,” she says.

“Anybody reading a CV in a hurry is going to scan it, so highlight things about yourself that are appealing to the interviewer,” says Fiona Myint, consultant vascular surgeon at the Royal Free, council member of the Royal College of Surgeons, England, and honorary senior clinical lecturer, University College, London.

Person specifications will often say what is essential and what is desirable, “so it’s no good extolling a lot of virtues using a lot of space about something a potential employer doesn’t actually want”, says Evans.

There is further advice on preparing your CV in these articles:

https://www.bmj.com/content/356/bmj.j82

https://www.bmj.com/content/343/bmj.d5289

Structure it clearly

Having worked out what employers might be looking for in your CV and what skills and qualifications you need to emphasise, you need to think about how to structure it.

“There is lots of conflicting advice, but I like to see an easy structure,” says Evans. This will depend on the post, but he advises putting administration details, and a brief personal statement outlining training and experience at the beginning of your CV.

Doctors then need to set out main headings that sum up their work experiences. Evans suggests putting sections in order of the priorities of the job specifications.

There is further advice on writing medical CVs in these articles:

https://www.bmj.com/content/337/bmj.a965

https://www.bmj.com/content/328/7454/s266

https://www.bmj.com/content/328/7452/s225

Highlight your experience

Highlighting clinical capabilities is a main feature of any doctor’s CV, and in the case of consultants they should include what sets them apart from others in their interests, such as work they have done regarding heart disease, or transportation medicine.

But doctors should avoid giving too much detail about the many conferences and courses they have been to in this section, Evans says. “It’s a pet hate. I often see people give great lists of courses they have attended and think: ‘Well, what does that tell me? I can’t see the relevance, and that lack of strategy would worry me.”

Another aspect to highlight in your CV is quality improvement statements. These might also include giving examples of improving patient safety, such as an audit you have been involved in or a service that has enhanced patient care. Evans cautions against listing all the projects you have done and to highlight something most recent or most relevant to the job specification.

Research is a section that should be prioritised on your CV if you are applying for an academic job or a professorship. Other sections could include education, teaching experience, leadership, and publications.

There is further advice on how you can further develop your CV in this article: https://www.bmj.com/content/328/7452/s226 .

List outside interests

It’s worth including outside interests in your CV, especially those you are really proud of and that are relevant. “I like to see a good rounded CV, so mention of extracurricular activities and achievements, foreign languages spoken, musical instruments played, mountains climbed,” says David Turner, a  GP partner in West London. “This shows a good rounded individual who has a lot interests outside medicine and is less likely to get burnt out.”

Address gaps

Your CV not only highlights your achievements, but also the gaps in knowledge and experience you need to fill, such as being published in an academic journal, or carrying out an audit. “If you haven’t been published, address that now, as it can take a year from writing an article to it being published,” advises Myint. “And if you have been involved in an audit that’s not quite finished, make sure you complete it.”

Make it look good

Be mindful that, when dealing with applications, employers may not have much time to review your CV. “Make it appealing to the interviewer”, says Myint. “Make it readable - 11-12 font size minimum - not too ‘flowery’ and fairly simple.”

Make sure it is accurate

Correct spelling and grammar are essential, as are putting in post-nominal letters in the correct order – failing to do so “shows a lack of knowledge”, says Clare Gerada, medical director of the Practitioner Health Programme (PHP), non executive director of University College London Hospital, and a GP in London.

Compile a portfolio

All the sections in your CV should be evidenced by a portfolio, advises Myint. “If, say, you’ve listed teaching experience, ensure your portfolio gives evidence that you’ve taught a particular course,” she says. This portfolio should include a list of contents and be presentable, she advises.

Keep up to date

All doctors should regularly review their CV to keep up to date. “Sometimes you need to use your CV at short notice, and people often underestimate how much time it takes,” says Gerada. “Don’t let a month go by without updating your CV - especially in early days of your career. It’s amazing how much you can forget about how much you’ve done.”

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Doctor CV template

Build the perfect doctor CV with our free template

On this page:

Make sure you build the perfect doctor CV template to help you land your perfect role. 

A CV for doctors tells the story of an individual’s career and should show why they’re right for the role. An impressive doctor’s CV demonstrates an ability to complete important tasks that include patient assessments, competent medical care and accurate diagnoses.

Making sure you can showcase these abilities through your previous work experience, skills, and qualifications will enhance your chances of landing a role within the medical profession. 

Download our full doctor CV template. 

Most doctor CVs should include a personal statement, which is usually found at the top of the page. This section gives you the perfect opportunity summarise your previous experience, skills, and qualifications. Make sure the statement is succinct, informative and concise. 

The role of a doctor is a demanding one, often involving long shifts and lots of intense work. Our medical CV template allows you the opportunity to list some outside interests and hobbies to help show that you can deal with the job responsibilities but also lead a well-balanced lifestyle. 

Introduction  

In the introduction section of your doctor CV, make sure you include the following essential information: 

[Full Name] [Home address] [Contact Number] • [Email Address] [Registration with GMC]

Personal Statement

This section is your chance to summarise the rest of the CV and convince the recruiter to get in touch. It is important to keep it brief, but also engaging. 

I am a medical specialist in the field of [specific area], looking to further my medical career. I have extensive experience in both the private and public sector having [years] of clinical practice. 

I am looking for my next opportunity in a [permanent/locum] role within a [type of hospital/facility] and/or [department] where I can further my medical profession. 

This is your chance to talk about your academic qualifications and additional medical courses you have taken. You should give detail about what you studied, where and when. 

Medical Qualifications

[School of Medicine] [Date M/Y– Date M/Y]

Other Qualifications

[BA/MSC] [Date M/Y-Date M/Y]

Membership Organisations

[E.g. Royal College Society of Medicine etc.]

Academic Awards

Research Experience/ Publications

[Papers/presentations/research titles]

Work Experience

This should be brief and, as a general rule of thumb, focus on the last five years of your career, or last three roles, in chronological order with the most recent at the top. You should highlight your key achievements and use bullet points rather than lengthy descriptions. 

[Job Title], [Name of Hospital] [Location] [Date M/Y- Date M/Y]

Achievements and responsibilities

Brief role overview

Hobbies and Interests

This section is not essential to include, but you may wish to depending on the role you are applying for. It can be a useful chance to show a little more of your personality. If you don’t have any real relatable hobbies, it is probably best to omit this section. 

I volunteer at…

There are two options for presenting your references. You can state that your references are 'available upon request', or simply provide referees. Make sure you include their name, job title and correct contact details.

How to make your doctor CV stand out

Whether you’ve recently finished university, or just started searching for a medical position, making your CV stand out is essential if you want to get invited to an interview.   

Make sure your personal statement hits the right notes  

Your personal statement is the first thing an employer sees, meaning it’s vital if you want them to read on. Use examples to back up your relevant skills and experience claims but remember to keep it as short and succinct as possible.  

Find your USP  

Job hunting is a competitive market. Utilise your unique selling point (USP) to set you apart from the rest. This can be through having your own blog that’s relevant to the job, being an advocate for a worthwhile cause or through volunteer work.   

Provide examples  

It’s easy to say you’re good at something but backing it up can be a bit trickier. Make sure you’re providing tangible examples for every skill you mention, quantifying your abilities to the employer. 

Tailor your CV  

A CV should not be a ‘one size fits all’ document. Alter your CV in line with the medical institution you're applying to using the job description, company profile, and any other information you can find from your research. 

Download our full doctor CV template.

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Doctor CV template FAQs

A doctor CV should include a personal statement, which outlines your medical career, skills, qualifications and experience you have in the medical field. It should also include sections where you go into more detail on your education, work experience, and hobbies and interests. 

For more on how to write a CV, click here . 

In order to be successful in a medical doctor role, you'll need appropriate qualifications in medicine and an extensive knowledge of medical treatments, procedures and processes. You should also have good communication skills for both colleagues and patients, and an ability to cope under pressure. 

Learn more about our health & care recruitment services .

Patients must be able to trust a doctor with their life and health concerns. You need to show respect for human life and make sure your work meets the high standards expected of you in four areas that include: communication, safety, trust and knowledge, skill & performance. 

We have expert consultants who specialise in recruiting for doctors. Whether you are a general practitioner, registrar, consultant, or looking for a specialist role within psychiatry – we can support you and find you the best role to match your career goals . 

Additionally, we provide all our candidates with ongoing career development and training to ensure you remain up to date with the latest industry developments and have the tools to thrive in your career.

Find a Reed office

Our national coverage allows us to offer a recruitment service tailored to your needs, with accurate local market intelligence on salaries, competitors and the best professionals who can help your business thrive.

Get your free doctor CV template

Your next job application just got a whole lot easier.

When applying for new doctor jobs it is important to have a stand-out medical CV and cover letter. On this page, you can access multiple resources including information on how to construct the perfect resume, list your relevant work experience, and create a personal statement.

First things first! We know you're busy that's why we have taken our knowledge of the industry and created a downloadable CV template for you.

It's simple

Creating your the perfect resume has never been this easy with our doctor CV template.

It's designed for you

Our medical CV template has been specifically designed with doctor job applications in mind.

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Our medical CV template is easy to read and has been used by our network of over 70,000 doctors.

Why is your doctor CV important?

A good medical CV is an important tool for any professional in the medical field. It can help you to showcase your qualifications, stand out from the competition, and secure better job opportunities.

Download CV template

How to write a personal statement for your doctor cv.

• Determine your focus
• Keep it brief
• Use strong language
• Tailor it to the job
• Proofread and edit

What makes a good doctor CV?

A good doctor's CV is a clear, concise, and easy-to-read document that outlines your education, work experience, and includes your skills as a medical professional. It should be tailored to the specific job or opportunity you are applying for and should highlight your most relevant qualifications and experiences. It is important to also include your contact details and a covering letter or personal statement.

How to write a doctor resume

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Doctor interview questions and answers

Frequently asked questions, where is the work in new zealand.

There are roles available right across New Zealand. Many (though certainly not all) locum roles are in rural locations and lots of doctors we work with love using this as an opportunity to explore new places. Where the work is also depends on the type of work you’d like to do and what your specialty and experience is. You can search for current roles on our job search page.

Where is the work in Australia?

There are roles available right across Australia. Where the work is depends on your experience and specialty. Many (though certainly not all) locum roles are in rural areas. Overseas-trained doctors are required to work in a rural area of need for a period of time.

Lots of doctors we work with love earning extra and exploring the country through locum and permanent placements. You can find out more about our current job listings on the job search page .

What paperwork will I need to apply for roles?

Your registration number, a current CV and three references are the essentials of any job application. Other paperwork that's commonly required is:

• Evidence of vaccinations,
• Evidence of your degree/fellowship,
• Annual Practicing Certificates,
• A certified copy of your passport and/or driver’s licence,
• Police vetting form.

What you'll need can vary slightly between Australian states and in New Zealand. Some states/locations also ask you complete an online training course (eMedical Courses). We're here to help guide you through the requirements and we'll give you a checklist detailing everything you need.

How to write a doctor's CV?

When creating your doctor's resume, it is integral that it is thorough and well-written. Make sure you include your qualifications, clinical experience, and research. Download our doctor's CV template for more information.

What to include on my CV?

• Your name and contact details
• Your medical qualifications and where you studied for your degree
• Dates of qualifications and employment
• Any gaps in work or practice history
• Any extracurricular activities or research you have undertaken
• A photograph will help build rapport with the hiring manager

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• • Increased clinic's online review ratings by consistently delivering excellent patient care, resulting in a 35% increase in new patient inquiries
• • Spearheaded a community outreach program, educating over 600 individuals on the safe practices of aesthetic medicine
• • Trained 3 junior doctors in advanced injection techniques, enhancing the clinic's caliber of service
• • Initiated a feedback loop with clientele to optimize the patient experience, leading to 50% fewer cancellations
• • Increased the clinic's revenue by 30% through proficient conduct of over 500 aesthetic surgery procedures
• • Introduced a cutting-edge 3D imaging technology to improve patient consultations, enhancing procedure outcomes by 20%
• • Contributed to a multidisciplinary team effort that received 'Clinic of the Month' recognition twice in one year
• • Authored 4 articles for renowned aesthetic medicine journals, showcasing the clinic's expertise in the field

Doctor CV Examples & Guide for 2024

When crafting your doctor CV, ensure it meticulously details your educational background. Highlight your medical degree and any specializations or residency programs completed. Include a comprehensive list of your clinical experience and any research or publications. This demonstrates your practical skills and contributions to medical knowledge.

• CV Format Tips
• Summary or Objective?
• Experience on Your CV
• No Experience?
• Top CV Skills
• Education & Certifications
• Key Takeaways

Crafting a CV that effectively showcases your extensive medical experience and research prowess can be a daunting task. Our guide offers step-by-step instructions and expert tips to help you distil your expertise into a compelling narrative, ensuring you stand out in every job application.

• Applying best practices from real-world examples to ensure your profile always meets recruiters' expectations;
• What to include in your work experience section, apart from your past roles and responsibilities?
• Why are both hard and soft skills important for your application?
• How do you need to format your CV to pass the Applicant Tracker Software (ATS) assessment?

If you're writing your CV for a niche doctor role, make sure to get some inspiration from professionals:

• Phlebotomist CV Example
• Massage Therapist CV Example
• Public Health CV Example
• Pharmacy Technician CV Example
• Child Care CV Example
• Practice Nurse CV Example
• Babysitter CV Example
• Nurse Practitioner CV Example
• Medical Assistant CV Example
• Support Worker CV Example

How to ensure your profile stands out with your doctor CV format

• list your experience in the reverse chronological order - starting with your latest roles;
• include a header with your professional contact information and - optionally - your photograph;
• organise vital and relevant CV sections - e.g. your experience, skills, summary/ objective, education - closer to the top;
• use no more than two pages to illustrate your professional expertise;
• format your information using plenty of white space and standard (2.54 cm) margins , with colours to accent key information.

Once you've completed your information, export your doctor CV in PDF, as this format is more likely to stay intact when read by the Applicant Tracker System or the ATS . A few words of advice about the ATS - or the software used to assess your profile:

• Generic fonts, e.g. Arial and Times New Roman, are ATS-compliant, yet many candidates stick with these safe choices. Ensure your CV stands out by using a more modern, and simple, fonts like Lato, Exo 2, Volkhov;
• All serif and sans-serif fonts are ATS-friendly. Avoid the likes of fancy decorative or script typography, as this may render your information to be illegible;
• Both single- and double-column formatted CVs could be assessed by the ATS ;
• Integrating simple infographics, icons, and charts across your CV won't hurt your chances during the ATS assessment.

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Use bold or italics sparingly to draw attention to key points, such as job titles, company names, or significant achievements. Overusing these formatting options can dilute their impact.

The top sections on a doctor CV

• Professional summary to highlight medical expertise and achievements, providing a snapshot of the doctor's qualifications.
• Medical education and training details to establish the doctor's foundational knowledge and specialised skills.
• Clinical experience and employment history to showcase the doctor's practical application of medical knowledge and patient care.
• Research and publications to demonstrate the doctor's contribution to medical knowledge and evidence of academic engagement.
• Licences and certifications to confirm the doctor's legal and professional qualifications to practice medicine.

What recruiters value on your CV:

• Highlight your specific medical qualifications, including your MBBS, MD, or any other postgraduate specialisms you have obtained. Ensure these are at the forefront of your CV to immediately showcase your professional status.
• Detail your clinical experience, specifying the hospitals, clinics, or medical institutions where you have worked, including the duration and the nature of your roles there. This gives potential employers an insight into your hands-on experience and areas of expertise.
• Include any publications or research you have contributed to, emphasising your role in the work and the impact it has had on the medical community. This demonstrates your commitment to advancing your field and your ability to contribute to evidence-based practice.
• Outline your professional memberships and affiliations with medical bodies such as the GMC, BMA, or specialty-specific colleges, indicating any active roles or responsibilities you have held within these organisations. This signals to employers your dedication to professional development and your recognition by the medical community.
• Provide evidence of your commitment to continuing professional development by listing attended conferences, additional courses, or certifications you have acquired throughout your career. It is crucial to show that you remain up-to-date with the latest medical advancements and training.

Recommended reads:

Reverse chronological cv: stuck in the past or future-proof, why and how to present your cv in pdf format, making a good first impression with your doctor cv header.

Your typical CV header consists of Your typical CV header consists of contact details and a headline. Make sure to list your professional phone number, email address, and a link to your professional portfolio (or, alternatively, your LinkedIn profile). When writing your CV headline , ensure it's:

• tailored to the job you're applying for;
• highlights your unique value as a professional;
• concise, yet matches relevant job ad keywords.

You can, for examples, list your current job title or a particular skill as part of your headline. Now, if you decide on including your photo in your CV header, ensure it's a professional one, rather than one from your graduation or night out. You may happen to have plenty more questions on how to make best the use of your CV headline. We'll help you with some real-world examples, below.

Examples of good CV headlines for doctor:

Dr. Charlotte Smith Consultant Radiologist | Magnetic Resonance Imaging Specialist | FRCR | 10+ Years of Clinical Experience

Dr. Aarav Patel Lead Cardiologist | Interventional Procedures Expert | MD, PhD | 15 Years in Cardiac Care

Dr. Emily Nguyen Paediatric Neurologist | Epilepsy & Developmental Disorders Focus | Board-Certified | 8 Years Post-Residency

Dr. Michael O'Brien Clinical Director of Oncology | Cancer Research Advocate | FRCP | 20+ Years of Dedicated Service

Dr. Sophia Chang Senior Anaesthetist | Pain Management Innovator | FFARCSI | Over a Decade in Anaesthesia

Dr. Lucas Garcia Head of Orthopaedic Surgery | Joint Replacement Specialist | FRCS (Orth) | 12 Years Surgical Expertise

Choosing your opening statement: a doctor CV summary or objective

At the top one third of your CV, you have the chance to make a more personable impression on recruiters by selecting between:

• Summary - or those three to five sentences that you use to show your greatest achievements . Use the CV summary if you happen to have plenty of relevant experience and wish to highlight your greatest successes;
• Objective - provides you with up to five sentences to state your professional aims and mission in the company you're applying for

CV summaries for a doctor job:

• With 12 years of surgical experience enriched by a consistent track record at the reputed St. George's Hospital, London, this Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon specializes in sports-related injuries, evidenced by successfully performing over 1,000 arthroscopic procedures and fostering advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques.
• Accomplished General Practitioner from Manchester with over 15 years in family medicine, holding a Master's in Public Health, adept in managing chronic conditions and a proven leader in spearheading public health campaigns that reduced incidence of diabetes in the local community by 20% within two years.
• Former senior nurse with a decade of frontline experience in critical care, aspiring to transition into a medical doctor role post medical schooling, bringing comprehensive patient care skills, a deep understanding of clinical protocols, and a compassionate approach honed from years of providing exceptional nursing care.
• Biochemist with 5 years of pharmaceutical research experience at GlaxoSmithKline, transitioning into clinical practice to apply robust scientific knowledge in a direct patient-care setting, after successful completion of medical qualifications and clinical rotations focusing on internal medicine and pharmacotherapeutics.
• Seeking to embark on a medical career where my recent graduation from Imperial College London’s medical program and fresh knowledge of cutting-edge medical techniques can contribute to providing top-tier patient care and support the hospital’s commitment to health excellence.
• Eager to apply the rigour of my aerospace engineering background and problem-solving talents to the medical field, determined to leverage my technical expertise and intense training to excel in a challenging and dynamic medical environment, bringing zero years of direct medical experience but unparalleled dedication to human health and welfare.

How to meet job requirements with your doctor CV experience

We've now reached the essence of your actual CV - your experience section. This is the space where you can list your career roles and on-the-job successes. Many candidates tend to underestimate just how much time and effort they should put into writing this CV section. Your experience shouldn't be a random list of your responsibilities, but instead:

• Match the job description with your skills, values, and accomplishments;
• Start each bullet with a strong action verb, followed up with one key skill and your outcome of applying this skill;
• Spotlight parts of your career history that are relevant to the job you're applying for .

Before we move on, make sure to check out some professional CV experience sections.

Best practices for your CV's work experience section

• Detail clinical experiences by specifying the type and size of the healthcare settings you have worked in, such as hospitals, clinics, or medical centres.
• Highlight your duties and responsibilities in patient care, such as diagnoses, treatment plans, and follow-ups to showcase your clinical competence.
• Include any areas of specialisation or particular medical interests to demonstrate your expertise and focus within the medical field.
• Mention leadership roles and responsibilities, such as managing a department or leading a team of medical professionals, to show your capability in overseeing others.
• Document your experience with different types of patient populations, including age ranges and particular health concerns you've addressed, to show the breadth of your medical practice.
• Illustrate your commitment to professional development by listing any additional qualifications, courses, or conferences attended relevant to the field of medicine.
• Quantify your experience where possible, such as the number of patients seen per day or the success rates of certain procedures you have performed, for concrete evidence of your expertise.
• Emphasise your proficiency with medical technologies or EMR systems, indicating any specific software or equipment you are experienced with.
• Discuss any experience with interdisciplinary collaboration, indicating how you work with other healthcare professionals to provide holistic patient care.
• Directly managed a team of 5 junior physicians, improving department efficiency by 20% through targeted mentorship and workflow optimization.
• Spearheaded the implementation of a new electronic health record system, increasing patient data accessibility and reducing average documentation time by 30 minutes per patient.
• Launched a community health initiative that serviced over 2,000 local residents, improving early disease detection rates by 15% in the first year.
• Conducted clinical research on cardiovascular diseases, leading to a 5% improvement in treatment outcomes through the introduction of evidence-based practice adjustments.
• Delivered educational presentations at 10+ medical conferences, disseminating cutting-edge research findings to over 500 healthcare professionals.
• Collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to redesign patient care protocols, reducing hospital readmission rates by 8%.
• Pioneered a telemedicine program that increased access to care for rural patients by 25%, leading to higher patient satisfaction scores.
• Authored a clinical guideline on hypertension management adopted by the hospital network, influencing the treatment of an estimated 1,000 patients annually.
• Oversaw a budget of $2 million for departmental operations, optimizing resource allocation and cutting unnecessary expenses by 10%.
• Developed and implemented a new patient care model that led to a 12% improvement in the average patient healing time.
• Supervised the clinical training of 20 medical residents, enhancing the hospital's residency program's reputation and competitive positioning.
• Engaged in cross-functional collaboration to secure a $750,000 grant for medical research into innovative oncology treatments.
• Designed a public health outreach program that educated over 5,000 individuals on diabetes prevention and self-management.
• Orchestrated a partnership with local government to integrate mental health services into primary care, improving patient outcomes by 22%.
• Provided expert testimony on healthcare policy changes at state legislative hearings, advocating for patient-centered care improvements.
• Leveraged advanced surgical techniques to perform over 100 successful laparoscopic surgeries, resulting in reduced recovery time for patients.
• Initiated a quality improvement program that decreased surgical complications by 9%, ensuring higher standards of patient safety.
• Mentored a cohort of surgical fellows, fostering professional development and enhancing the surgical team's capabilities.
• Played a key role in the emergency department's response to a local epidemic, treating up to 50 patients per shift during peak demand.
• Developed a quick triage assessment protocol that shortened patient wait times by 35%, increasing department throughput.
• Engaged in collaborative research with the infectious disease department, leading to the publication of two peer-reviewed articles.
• Implemented a novel pain management program that decreased the average pain score reported by post-operative patients by two points on a ten-point scale.
• Led weekly multidisciplinary case conferences, enhancing team communication and care coordination for complex patient cases.
• Contributed to the successful accreditation of the hospital's palliative care program by demonstrating exceptional patient care and support.

What to add in your doctor CV experience section with no professional experience

If you don't have the standard nine-to-five professional experience , yet are still keen on applying for the job, here's what you can do:

• List any internships, part-time roles , volunteer experience, or basically any work you've done that meets the job requirements and is in the same industry;
• Showcase any project you've done in your free time (even if you completed them with family and friends) that will hint at your experience and skill set;
• Replace the standard, CV experience section with a strengths or achievements one. This will help you spotlight your transferrable skills that apply to the role.
• How to List Qualifications on Your CV (Tips & Examples for 2023)
• How to Address Employment Gaps on Your CV (With Templates for 2023)

Talk about any positive changes you helped bring about in your previous jobs, like improving a process or helping increase efficiency.

Hard skills and soft skills to showcase your unique skill set on your doctor CV

Did you know that your CV will mostly likely be assessed by recruiters based on skill alignment? And that means that the way you feature your key skills across different CV sections will play a crucial role in landing you that first interview. We recommend you add your:

• technical capabilities or hard skills in your CV experience, certificates, projects, etc. Use your past accomplishments to prove your technical capabilities. List up to a dozen different software or hardware in your dedicated skills section to match the job keywords;
• personal and communication skills or soft skills in your CV strengths, achievements, summary/ objective, etc. Soft skills are a bit more difficult to prove. How do you define your aptitude in active listening? So, instead of just listing the skill name, include a tangible metric to show your success.

On a final note, when you're in a hurry to create your profile, you may misspell a particular technology or soft skill. That's why we suggest you copy and paste the particular skill name (or keyword), directly from the job advert. This would also help you to pass any initial Applicant Tracker System (ATS) tests.

Top skills for your doctor CV:

Clinical knowledge

Patient care

Diagnostic proficiency

Surgical skills

Emergency response

Medical imaging interpretation

Pharmacology knowledge

Anatomy and physiology

Electronic Medical Records (EMR)

Medical research

Communication

Problem-solving

Time management

Adaptability

Attention to detail

Professionalism

Focus on describing skills in the context of the outcomes they’ve helped you achieve, linking them directly to tangible results or successes in your career.

Education and more professional qualifications to include in your doctor CV

If you want to showcase to recruiters that you're further qualified for the role , ensure you've included your relevant university diplomas. Within your education section :

• Describe your degree with your university name(-s) and start-graduation dates;
• List any awards you've received, if you deem they would be impressive or are relevant to the industry;
• Include your projects and publications, if you need to further showcase how you've used your technical know-how;
• Avoid listing your A-level marks, as your potential employers care to learn more about your university background.

Apart from your higher education, ensure that you've curated your relevant certificates or courses by listing the:

• name of the certificate or course;
• name of the institution within which you received your training;
• the date(-s) when you obtained your accreditation.

In the next section, discover some of the most relevant certificates for your doctor CV:

Order your skills based on the relevance to the role you're applying for, ensuring the most pertinent skills catch the employer's attention first.

• How to Showcase Your Educational Achievements on CV: Examples, Templates, & Guide for 2024
• CV Certifications - Tips, Examples & Template to Use in 2024

Key takeaways

Write your professional doctor CV by studying and understanding what the role expectations are. You should next:

• Focus on tailoring your content to answer specific requirements by integrating advert keywords through various CV sections;
• Balance your technical know-how with your personal skills to showcase what the unique value would be of working with you;
• Ensure your CV grammar and spelling (especially of your key information and contact details) is correct;
• Write a CV summary, if your experience is relevant, and an objective, if your career ambitions are more impressive;
• Use active language by including strong, action verbs across your experience, summary/objective, achievements sections.

Looking to build your own Doctor CV?

• CV Examples

Frequently asked questions about Doctor CVs:

How long should a doctor cv be a doctor cv should be no more than 2 pages long, focusing on your most relevant qualifications and experiences..

How to List CV Conceptual Skills: 2024 Guide to Defining Your Talents

How to Include CV Coursework on Your CV

How to Sell Yourself on a CV

The Ultimate Guide to Hard Skills for Your CV: Stand Out in the Competitive Job Market

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Medicine Personal Statement Examples

Get some inspiration to start writing your Medicine Personal Statement with these successful examples from current Medical School students. We've got Medicine Personal Statements which were successful for universities including Imperial, UCL, King's, Bristol, Edinburgh and more.

Personal Statement Examples

• Read successful Personal Statements for Medicine
• Pay attention to the structure and the content
• Get inspiration to plan your Personal Statement

Personal Statement Example 1

Check out this Medicine Personal Statement which was successful for Imperial, UCL, QMUL and King's.

Personal Statement Example 2

This Personal Statement comes from a student who received Medicine offers from Bristol and Plymouth - and also got an interview at Cambridge.

Personal Statement Example 3

Have a look at this Medicine Personal Statement which was successful for Imperial, Edinburgh, Dundee and Newcastle.

Personal Statement Example 4

Take a look at this Medicine Personal Statement which was successful for King's, Newcastle, Bristol and Sheffield.

Personal Statement Example 5

Pick up tips from this Medicine Personal Statement which was successful for Imperial, Birmingham and Manchester.

Personal Statement Example 6

This Personal Statement comes from a student who got into Graduate Entry Medicine at King's - and also had interviews for Undergraduate Medicine at King's, QMUL and Exeter.

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General Practitioner CV example (GP)

If you love caring for people and you’re looking for a flexible and diverse role, a job as a general practitioner could be for you.

Not to mention, the current shortage of healthcare professionals means GPs are in demand right now.

But despite the shortages, you still need to put together a strong CV if you hope to land a position as a GP.

This guide will teach you how to craft a professional and persuasive general practitioner application with the help of an example CV.

Guide contents

General Practitioner CV example

• Structuring and formatting your CV
• Writing your CV profile
• Detailing work experience
• Your education
• Skills required for your General Practitioner CV

CV templates 

The above CV example demonstrates the type of info you should be including within your General Practitioner CV, as well as how to display this information in a way which looks professional and is easy for time-strapped recruiters to read.

This is the standard you should be aiming for, so remember to refer back to it throughout the CV writing process.

GP CV structure and format

Your CV is the very first impression you’ll make on a potential employer.

A disorganised, cluttered and barely readable CV could seriously decrease your chances of landing interviews, so it’s essential to make sure yours is slick, professional and easy to navigate.

You can do this by employing a clear structure and formatting your content with some savvy formatting techniques – check them out below:

Formatting Tips

• Length: Whether you’ve got one year or three decades of experience, your CV should never be more than two sides of A4. Recruiters are busy people who’re often juggling numerous roles and tasks, so they don’t have time to read lengthy applications. If you’re a recent graduate or don’t have much industry experience, one side of A4 is fine.
• Readability : Columns, lists, bullet points, bold text and subtle colour can all help to aid the readability of your CV. Your overarching goal should be to make the content as easy to read and navigate as possible, whilst also aiming to make your key skills and achievements stand out.
• Design: Your CV needs to look professional, sleek and easy to read. A subtle colour palette, clear font and simple design are generally best for this, as fancy designs are often harder to navigate.
• Avoid photos: Logos, profile photos or other images aren’t necessary and rarely add any value – save the space for written content, instead!

Structuring your CV

When writing your own CV , break up your CV content into the following key sections:

• Name and contact details – Place them at the top of your CV, so that employers can easily get in touch.
• CV profile – A punchy sales pitch of your key experience, skills and achievements to reel readers in.
• Core skills section – A bullet-pointed snapshot of your abilities.
• Work experience – A well-structured list of your relevant work experience.
• Education – An overview of any relevant qualifications or professional training you have.
• Hobbies and interests – A short description of any relevant hobbies or interests (optional).

Now I’ll guide you through exactly what you should include in each CV section.

CV Contact Details

Tuck your contact details into the corner of your CV, so that they don’t take up too much space. Stick to the basic details, such as:

• Mobile number
• Email address – It should sound professional, such as your full name.
• Location -Just write your rough location, rather than your full address.
• LinkedIn profile or portfolio URL – If you include these, ensure they’re sleek, professional and up-to-date.

General Practitioner CV Profile

Recruiters and hiring managers are busy, so it’s essential to catch their attention from the get-go.

A strong introductory profile (or personal statement , for junior candidates) at the top of the CV is the first thing they’ll read, so it’s a great chance to make an impression.

It should be a short but punchy summary of your key skills, relevant experience and accomplishments.

Ultimately, it should explain why you’re a great fit for the role you’re applying for and inspire recruiters to read the rest of your CV.

Tips for creating an impactful CV profile:

• Keep it brief: The best CV profiles are short, sharp and highly relevant to the target role. For this reason, it’s best to write 3-4 lines of high-level information, as anything over might be missed.
• Tailor it: The biggest CV mistake? A generic, mass-produced document which is sent out to tens of employers. If you want to land an interview, you need to tailor your CV profile (and your application as a whole) to the specific roles you’re applying for. So, before you start writing, remember to read over those job descriptions and make a list of the skills, knowledge and experience the employers are looking for.
• Don’t add an objective: If you want to discuss your career objectives, save them for your cover letter , rather than wasting valuable CV profile space.
• Avoid cliches: If there’s one thing that’ll annoy a recruiter, it’s a clichè-packed CV. Focus on showcasing your hard skills, experience and the results you’ve gained in previous roles, which will impress recruiters far more.

What to include in your General Practitioner CV profile?

• Summary of experience: Recruiters will want to know what type of companies you’ve worked for, industries you have knowledge of, and the type of work you’ve carried out in the past, so give them a summary of this in your profile.
• Relevant skills: Employers need to know what skills you can bring to their organisation, and ideally they want to see skills that match their job vacancy. So, research your target roles thoroughly and add the most important General Practitioner skills to your profile.
• Essential qualifications: If the jobs you are applying to require candidates to have certain qualifications, then you must add them in your profile to ensure they are seen by hiring managers.

Quick tip: Even the best of writers can overlook typos and spelling mistakes. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to add pre-written content that has been created by recruitment experts, and proofread by our team.

Core skills section

Underneath your profile, create a core skills section to make your most relevant skills jump off the page at readers.

It should be made up of 2-3 columns of bullet points of your relevant skills.

Before you do this, look over the job description and make a list of any specific skills, specialisms or knowledge required.

Then, make sure to use your findings in your list. This will paint you as the perfect match for the role.

Work experience/Career history

Now it’s time to get stuck into your work experience, which should make up the bulk of your CV.

Begin with your current (or most recent) job, and work your way backwards.

If you’ve got too much experience to fit onto two pages, prioritise space for your most recent and relevant roles.

Structuring your roles

Whilst writing your CV, it’s essential to look at it from the eyes of a recruiter.

If they’re met with giant blocks of text which are impossible to navigate, they might get frustrated and skip onto the next CV.

Instead, make use of the 3-step structure shown below, to give them a pleasant reading experience.

Begin with a summary of your role, detailing what the purpose of your job was, who you reported to and what size of team you were part of (or led).

Key responsibilities

Use bullet points to detail the key responsibilities of your role, highlighting hard skills, software and knowledge wherever you can.

Keep them short and sharp to make them easily digestible by readers.

Key achievements

Lastly, add impact by highlight 1-3 key achievements  that you made within the role.

Struggling to think of an achievement? If it had a positive impact on your company, it counts.

For example, you might increased company profits, improved processes, or something simpler, such as going above and beyond to solve a customer’s problem.

In your education section, make any degrees, qualifications or training which are relevant to General Practitioner roles a focal point.

As well as mentioning the name of the organisation, qualification titles and dates of study, you should showcase any particularly relevant modules, assignments or projects.

Interests and hobbies

This section is entirely optional, so you’ll have to use your own judgement to figure out if it’s worth including.

If your hobbies and interests could make you appear more suitable for your dream job, then they are definitely worth adding.

Interests which are related to the industry, or hobbies like sports teams or volunteering, which display valuable transferable skills might be worth including.

Essential skills for your General Practitioner CV

Tailoring your CV to the roles you are applying for is key to success, so make sure to read through the job descriptions and tailor your skills accordingly.

However, commonly desired General Practitioner skills include:

Knowledge of medicine – As a GP you will be required to diagnose patients, prescribe medicine and carry out smaller medical procedures.

Communication – It is important that you can communicate effectively with patients and other doctors in person and over the phone.

Counselling – The ability to support patients and actively listen to their queries and concerns in a non-judgemental way.

IT skills and software – You must be able to use a computer and the key medical tools and software required to keep records, submit prescriptions and contact patients.

Leadership – You might be required to train junior doctors and other healthcare professionals. You might also have to lead clinics for specific groups or patients.

Writing your General Practitioner CV

An interview-winning CV for a General Practitioner role, needs to be both visually pleasing and packed with targeted content.

Whilst it needs to detail your experience, accomplishments and relevant skills, it also needs to be as clear and easy to read as possible.

Remember to research the role and review the job ad before applying, so you’re able to match yourself up to the requirements.

If you follow these guidelines and keep motivated in your job search, you should land an interview in no time.

Best of luck with your next application!