What makes a good hospital workplace?

Our hospitals are at the core of our communities.  Offering urgent and specialist care to all, hospitals employ a broad and diverse staff. Surgeons, obstetricians, dietitians, physical therapists, porters, cleaners and cooks all might find a role in hospitals.  Whether you’re newly graduated or an experienced staffer, here's a few things to keep in mind.

Teaching and community hospitals

A teaching hospital trains student doctors, nurses, surgeons and other specialists.  It's linked to a university, and its ethos includes a strong interest in research and teaching.  If you fancy cutting-edge research, a very specific speciality, or training new healthcare professionals, a teaching hospital is for you.

Community hospitals offer services to the local area. Everything from setting broken limbs to diabetes clinics happens at a community hospital. They're great places to work if you're interested in establishing long term links with your patients and your community.

Hospital ratings

In the UK, hospitals are rated by the Care Quality Commission.  This independent organisation rates hospitals along a four point grading system - from Outstanding to Needs Improvement.  The commission also rates various aspects of the service, including safety, leadership and responsiveness. Each department of a hospital, such as obstetrics, diagnostics, and pharmacy, will be rated.

There are advantages and disadvantages to working in hospitals and departments at all levels of rating. A well-rated workplace might be performing at the best standard, and is a great place to learn. But don't overlook poorly-rated hospitals and departments.  You can make a real difference here with your skills and expertise. Also, hospital leadership might give extra resources to departments whose ratings they want to bring up.

Location

Every area in the UK needs hospitals with great staff.  If you're just starting out, you might let your career goals guide you. Or, you might choose a location with higher pay or lower cost of living. As you progress, you might wish to put down roots in a community - or select a location with great schools, beautiful hikes, or pristine beaches. 

Do thorough research, and you'll find a bright future in your hospital career. If you're ready for your next step, begin your job search with our VERCIDA database.