There’s loads in the news about the economy today and how the credit crunch and rising commodity prices mean that we’re all going to have less money for the foreseeable future. I’m quite annoyed by the fact that there are economists all over the telly telling everyone how “it would be really dangerous if public sector workers got pay rises.”
We junior docs got a 2.2% pay increase this year, despite the fact that inflation is at 3.3% and set to rise. I think it’s ridiculous to say that the city workers and bankers who caused the credit crunch can take home six-figure salaries and five-figure bonuses, but that doctors and nurses are not allowed a pay deal that keeps up with inflation.
The thing is being a junior doctor is an expensive business. I was working out exactly how expensive during a theatre session this afternoon and I came up with this list of fees that I have to pay this year in addition to the usual travel and clothing costs that every worker has to pay.
FRCA Primary MCQ Exam Fee: £260
General Medical Council Registration Fee: £390
Medical Indemnity Insurance: £60
Membership of the AAGBI: £55
FRCA Primary OSCE/Viva Exam Fee: £450
Anaesthetic Textbooks (to date): £175
Advances Trauma and Life Support Course Fee: £550
Total: £1940!
Looks like I won’t be going on holiday this year…
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