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December 2025 - Health

Disabled and ethnic minority UK-qualified doctors report poorer workplace experiences, according to recent research: A recent study reveals that ethnic minority UK-qualified doctors and doctors with disabilities face worse workplace experiences than their white and able-bodied peers. They are at higher risk of burnout due to workload stress, have a lower sense of belonging, and are more likely to encounter barriers to career progression. 

The Workplace Experiences Report 2025, by the GMC, examined the state of medical education and practice in the UK. Using evidence from their annual Barometer survey of thousands of doctors, along with in-depth interviews and research, their findings show that although there has been progress in improving doctors’ satisfaction over the past two years, disparities remain among certain groups. 

The report indicates that ethnic minority UK-qualified doctors are more likely to report higher workload stress, with a third (33%) of this group struggling with their workload (compared to 29% overall); workload challenges are also more common among doctors with a disability (38% versus 27% of non-disabled doctors). Consequently, both groups are more vulnerable to burnout (ethnic minority UK-qualified doctors 24% versus 18% of white UK graduates; doctors with a disability 28% versus 17% of non-disabled doctors). 

Another key factor contributing to poor workplace experiences is limited opportunities for career progression. While many doctors overall feel pessimistic about their career prospects, disabled and ethnic minority doctors are the least likely to view their career prospects positively. Less than a third (29%) of disabled doctors believe they can advance as they wish (compared to 40% of non-disabled doctors); meanwhile, a third (34%) of ethnic minority UK graduate doctors share this sentiment, compared to nearly two-fifths (39%) of doctors overall. 

The report emphasises that poor workplace experiences among these groups can be linked to a lack of inclusive workplace culture, perceived or actual discrimination and bias, limited access to training and development opportunities, and greater exposure to systemic pressures such as staffing shortages and rigid career pathways. It recommends that senior management ensures adequate staffing and resources to prevent excessive workloads, addresses disparities related to protected characteristics (such as ethnicity and disability), and fosters more inclusive and supportive workplaces to guarantee fairer treatment for all doctors.

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