NHS Hot Topics | Interview Preparation

WHAT IS THE NEWSFEED?

Each week we select an interesting medical article from a reputable news outlet or journal (e.g. BBC, British Medical Journal, Guardian) and share it on our newsfeed.

With each article, one of our Medmentors will provide a short summary of the piece (for when you're on the go) with some points of discussion and reflective thoughts. In addition, included in every article are some potential interview questions to help you practice thinking on your feet, gathering your thoughts and giving structured responses.
‍

Why is this important?

Keeping up-to-date with medical news is key for anyone looking to go into the profession. It's also a great way to become more aware of the challenges faced in the healthcare industry.

Importantly, our short discussions with reflective comments are structured to help you think more critically about the ideas and points raised. The aim of this is to help you improve your ability to deconstruct headlines and delve deeper into the topics discussed. It may be cliche, but there is always more to the story. Therefore, the ability to think about potential issues and conflicting views on your feet will help you that much more during your interviews when you are asked questions on the spot (which you undoubtedly will be).

medmentor®

NHS HOT TOPICS 🗞️

Stay updated with the latest NHS hot topics and reflective discussions from our Medmentors + practice interview questions.

How Scientists Shot Down Cancer’s ‘Death Star’ (NY Times)

Scientists have developed a drug called Sotorasib that can switch off a common cancer-causing mutation.

COVID-19: Many poor countries will see almost no vaccine next year, aid groups warn (BMJ)

Many developing countries are unable to secure vaccines for their populations this year, whilst wealthy nations buy more than they need.

COVID-19: Lockdown needs to be stricter, scientists warn

The new variant of COVID-19 has put the NHS under extreme pressure, but the same measures are not enough to reduce the infection rate.

COVID-19: Surge leaves key hospital services 'in crisis' (BBC)

A number of health services have been put on hold due to the pandemic. What impact will this have on the NHS in the coming years?

How will Brexit affect the healthcare workforce? (BMJ)

With Brexit negotiations over, it is time to analyse the effect that leaving the EU may have on the NHS.

NHS to trial ‘game-changer’ blood test able to detect more than 50 cancers (Independent)

Trials will begin in 2021 for a new blood test that has the potential to detect over 50 cancers.

Why are more people from BAME backgrounds dying from coronavirus? (BBC)

BAME communities have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19 due to various socioeconomic and political factors.

COVID-19 Vaccine Update: When will one be ready? (BBC)

With various COVID-19 vaccines now available, how do we decide which one is the most effective?

COVID-19: Inside test-and-trace - how the 'world beater' went wrong (BBC)

A closer look at the inefficiencies in the test and trace system

COVID-19: UK epidemic growing as R number goes above 1 (BBC)

New figures shows that the number of Coronavirus cases (COVID-19) are increasing across the UK.

Artificial Intelligence in Medicine

Artificial intelligence may be the future of healthcare, but exactly what does this mean for healthcare professionals and patients?

What Is Organ Donation and Why Is It Important?

A brief summary of organ donation and how it has been impacted by COVID-19.

What are the Social Determinants of Health?

Find out the different factors that contribute to health inequalities across a population and why they exist.

Why do Ethnic Minorities have Poorer Health?

A closer look at the health inequalities experienced by BAME communities

4 Pillars of Medical Ethics, Deontology & Consequentialism

A closer look at the four pillars of medical ethics that you should be aware of as an applicant, medical student & doctor.

WHAT IS THE NEWSFEED?