The Cost of Being a Medical Student: Part 2

Abstract

In our previous issue we highlighted the
harsh reality of how the cost-of-living
crisis is impacting medical students. We
brought to light the plight of medical
students with regards to dealing with
financial struggles on top of the demands
of medical school. In response to this
pressing issue, SURGO conducted a survey
to gauge the impact on medical students
here in Glasgow.
We received 40 responses from Glasgow
medical students over the past 3 months
and the findings were striking: 80% of
respondents acknowledged that their
studies had been affected by the cost-of
living crisis, with nearly half feeling
inadequately supported financially by their
university. While this revelation wasn't
entirely surprising, delving deeper into the
survey responses shed light on the
underlying reasons behind this
overwhelming sentiment.
Response to the question: Do you feel well
supported finacially?
A primary factor disrupting students' studies
appeared to be the necessity of working to
finance their education. Many respondents
voiced the struggle of balancing part-time or
full-time employment with the demands of a
full-time medical degree. Approximately 70%
relied on income from employment, yet a
significant portion still found it challenging to
cover necessities such as groceries, utilities,
rent, and even commuting expenses to attend
lectures. Such financial strain not only
hampers academic performance but also
deprives students of the social aspects
integral to the university experience.
Lastly, while some respondents reported
receiving support from family or personal
savings, it raises concerns about those
without such safety nets. This underscores
the persistent financial barriers hindering
access to education.
Response to the question: Have your studies been
impacted by the cost of living crisis?

Despite these challenges, our survey yielded
constructive suggestions for alleviating
financial burdens. Many advocated for
medical students to receive bursaries or
grants comparable to other healthcare
students, especially for those undertaking
medicine as a second degree. Additionally,
there were calls for enhanced support for
travel expenses related to mandatory
placements, particularly for those students
ineligible for government travel assistance
programs such as free or discounted travel
for under 22s.
Results in response to the question: Have you
ever felt like dropping out of the course due to
financial constraints?
Moreover, respondents advocated for
greater transparency in the university's
hardship fund decision-making process,
urging for a more streamlined and less
intrusive application procedure. Finally,
respondents emphasized the importance of
compassion and understanding from the
university regarding the necessity of working
alongside full-time studies. Many felt that the
stringent stance adopted by the medical
school fails to resonate with the practical
realities faced by students who rely on
employment to finance their education.
Alarmingly, our survey revealed that nearly
40% of respondents had contemplated
dropping out due to financial struggles, a
substantially higher proportion than
reported by the Office for Students (OfS).
While this figure was derived from a
relatively smaller sample size, it remains
disheartening to witness individuals
contemplating dropping out as a potential
solution. However, it's heartening to note
that the majority expressed resilience and
commitment to their academic journey,
reflecting the dedication inherent in medical
students pursuing their future careers.
In conclusion, while our survey underscores
the significant financial strain on students, it
also highlights opportunities for intervention
and support. As we navigate these
challenging times, it's essential to foster a
community of support and empathy. In a
climate marked by heightened awareness of
mental health, solidarity and support are
more vital than ever. In the spirit of
resilience, we've compiled some invaluable
pearls of financial wisdom from our
respondents to offer hope and guidance amid
the adversity. Enjoy our pick of the bunch!

"Save up and work during summer and winter so that
you don't have to work (as much) during term time. Oh,
and electives wi l be expensive so save from first year."
"Had I known the financial burden faced in medical school, along with
the increasing cost of living, I would have taken a year out to save
beforehand."
"Split money between different accounts - it's a very foolproof way
of budgeting which prevents you from over spending"
" .set aside a travel budget for placement."
Try to go to the big supermarkets for shopping once a
week/fortnight instead of little Tesco because its so much cheaper.
If al else fails, you can always make your savings back when you
start working as a doctor…"
"The further into medical school you get, the less time you wil have
to work. Capitalise on the time you have now and save up because
you wil need it. Take every discount and freebie you can."
"Make use of the young scot card as much as possible!"
"Work when you can, especialy via shift or bank-shift work as these
are super flexible and can fit around your schedule very easily.
Lastly, sometimes a bit of extra work is good because that way you
can earn enough money to not just survive but to live your life fuly!"
"Apply for funds and help from organisations and the university
wherever possible."
"Tesco meal deals add up fast!"
Don't study medicine if you want to be able to afford life for the
next five years
Better planning, and communicate with those you live with. For
instance decide how long you wil have the heating on etc to minimise
bi ls and stick to that.
"That it's very hard for people to get into medical school who are not from an affluent background - they do tel you
this. But what they don't tel you is that it's hard to STAY in medical school from a non-affluent background due to
the sheer costs involved. Stethoscope, scrubs, appropriate smart clothing (and cleaning said clothing) and smart shoes,
blood pressure cuff, tendon hammer - al these hidden costs realy add up! Then add in the consequential loss of
earnings due to the sheer intensity of the degree and clinical placements.