Career advice for doctors with a chronic illness

摘要

I have scleroderma. Eighteen months ago I was advised by an occupational health physician to retire from the NHS on grounds of ill health. I was 30. Determined not to let my medical skills go to waste, I was left on my own to find a niche for myself which matched my health needs and allowed me to carry on working. My situation is not unique, and in this week's Career Focus (BMJ Classified p 2) some doctors who have chronic illnesses summarise their experiences and give advice to other doctors who may find themselves in a similar position. This week also sees the launch of Career Focus's mentoring scheme for doctors with chronic illness.