- knowledge of medicine and dentistry
- the ability to work well with your hands
- thinking and reasoning skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of biology
- the ability to work well with others
- knowledge of English language
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- customer service skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
In this role you could:
- meet the patient before the operation to decide on the best course of action
- explain the procedures and risk
- take tests and arrange X-rays
- carry out operations with a team of people
- carry out ward rounds
- write to GPs about your patients’ conditions and treatments
You may need to wear protective clothing and a uniform.
You could work in an NHS or private hospital.
Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.
With experience and entry on the General Medical Council (GMC) Specialist Register, you could apply for senior or consultant roles, go on to lead a team, or manage a department.
You could also move into teaching and training students, trainee doctors and other healthcare professionals.
You can find out more about becoming a surgeon from the Royal College of Surgeons and Health Careers.
