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Application Guide 2024:
Interview
NHS Hot Topics, Current Affairs & Medicine Wider Reading For MMI Interviews 2024
Medicine Admissions Expert
Introduction
A frequently-asked type of MMI medical school interview question is NHS hot topic questions about medicine current affairs. In these, you may be asked to talk about something which you think is an essential contemporary medical issue - or you may be given one and asked to provide your thoughts. Either way, it’s important to understand some of the most frequently discussed topics.
This article expands on some of the most important hot topics in medicine 2024 about GPs and hospitals for you to know and provides links for further research so that you can look more into those that interest you. Don’t worry too much about knowing the specific details of all of these. Instead, you ought to familiarise yourself with a broad overview of some of these topics and the particular details of one or two.
In this article, you will find out and read about common medicine interview hot topics questions such as:
Check out our other articles on NHS Hot Topics in 2024
Important Cases in The NHS: MMI Interview Guides
Ethics For MMI Medicine Interviews
MMI Interview Stations
NHS Hot Topics 2024 & NHS Current Affairs 2024
👉🏻 7 Day NHS
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Antibiotic Resistance in 2024 - NHS Hot Topics in Medicine
One key nhs hot topic in current affairs is antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance describes the ongoing process that leads to bacteria becoming more and more resistant to commonly used antibiotics. This happens because of natural selection. Antibiotics kill bacteria - except those which have mutations making them resistant. These then multiply and become the dominant strain.
One important example of this is MRSA: methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus. This is predominantly transmitted in hospitals and is resistant to commonly used antibiotics such as penicillin. As bacteria become more resistant, we are also finding it harder to find new antibiotics that are distinct from those which have already been discovered.
This further complicates the issue.
To deal with this issue, it is important to know when to prescribe antibiotics and when not to do so. In particular, doctors ought to be cautious - only using them when needed. Patients also need to use them responsibly, always finishing the course that has been prescribed.
Further reading: WHO
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Abortion - Medicine Interview Questions
Abortion is a crucial component of reproductive rights. Reproductive justice describes the principle that all people should have the right to decide both when not to have children and when to have children.
Termination of pregnancy in the UK is technically criminalised with an exception for cases in which the physical or mental health of the mother is at risk - which can apply to any pregnancy, and is why women can access abortions for any reason up to 24 weeks and if there is a threat to life afterwards. The decriminalisation of abortion is a key topic that you could discuss in a medical interview.
Additionally, think about whether or not conscientious objections should be allowed - should religious doctors or others with a moral objection to termination of pregnancy be allowed not to perform them?
Further reading: BBC
👉🏼 Read more: Abortion In The Medical Interview - Everything You Need To Know
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7 day NHS - Medicine Current Affairs 2024
In line with the NHS founding principles, which you can read more about in our NHS article, a 7 day NHS is currently being worked towards in the UK. Currently, emergency treatment can of course be accessed on any day of the week.
However, a 7-day NHS aims to expand this in some key ways.
First, it aims to ensure that the same quality of care is provided on any day at any time - meaning that appointments with consultants and tests are more available at night or on weekends. Second, it seeks to provide GP appointments in the evenings and on weekends which most GP practises currently do not do.
Further reading: NHS
👉🏻 Read more: 7 Day NHS: A Guide
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The Francis Report & Mid Staffordshire Scandal - Medicine Current Affairs & Hot Topics
Between 2005-2008, there were “conditions of appalling care” at Stafford hospital. This led to the avoidable deaths of between 400-1200 patients and harmed thousands more. This scandal, commonly known as the “Mid Staffordshire scandal” because the hospital is run by the Mid Staffordshire NHS trust, arose in no small part due to poor decision-making and cost-cutting measures.
This led to horrific practises such as junior doctors being left alone at night, patients not being given food or water, and receptionists being expected to evaluate patients in A&E. The Francis report details this and recommends provisions to ensure that it never happens again.
Further reading: The Guardian
👉🏻 Read More: The Francis Reports & Mid Staffordshire Failings
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Gillick Competence & Fraser Guidelines for Medicine Interview Hot Topics
Gillick competence & the Fraser guidelines are key terms in discussion around medical consent and capacity. They originate from a 1980s court case with sought to determine whether a doctor could give contraceptive advice or treatment to a patient below the age of 16 without parental consent. The terms are often used interchangeably but have different definitions.
The Fraser guidelines are specific to contraception and sexual health. However, the test of Gillick competence serves as a general framework for all medical decision-making in teenagers. They guide whether or not a teenager demonstrates the capacity required to consent to medical processes. As such, there is no age of Gillick competence - different people will reach the threshold at different points.
It is always important to encourage children to discuss medical treatment with their parents, but when they don’t, these guidelines impact the follow-up process.
You can read more about consent and capacity in our medical ethics guides.
Further reading: NSPCC learning
👉🏼 Read More: Gillick Competence & Fraser Guidelines: NHS Hot Topics Interview Questions
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The Charlie Gard Case
Charlie Gard was born in 2016 with the rare condition encephalomyopathic mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome. He was born seemingly healthy, but quickly deteriorated and needed to be put on a ventilator.
His parents wished to keep him on life support and take him to the US for treatment, however, his doctors and other experts thought that this would only prolong his suffering as the treatment couldn’t help someone with a condition as advanced as his.
Eventually, a US doctor flew to the UK and told Charlie’s parents that the treatment would no longer be able to help him. They conceded the case, and his life support was later switched off. The Charlie Gard case drew into question important topics about whether parents or doctors should have the final say in divisive cases such as this one.
Further reading: BBC News
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The Alfie Evans case
Alfie Evans was born in May 2016. Initially healthy, he was admitted to a hospital in December 2016 and diagnosed with an unidentified degenerative neurological condition. After spending over a year in a semi-vegetative state, his parents wanted to fly him to Italy in the hopes of further treatment which may have extended his life for an undefined period of time. His doctors believed that it was more humane to turn off his life support.
Following a court case, a judge rules that doctors could stop providing life support for Alfie in the interests of his “peace, quiet, and privacy.” Numerous appeals were made to various levels of courts, and all were denied. Throughout this process, hospital workers were verbally abused by a group called “Alfie’s Army”, who at point attempted to storm the front entrance of the hospital where he was being looked after.
Further reading: BBC News
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Dr Hadiza Bawa Garba Case
Six-year-old Jack Adcock was admitted to a hospital on February 18th 2011, and died of pneumonia on the same day. Dr Bawa-Garba was found to be responsible and convicted for manslaughter by gross negligence.
As his doctor, Dr Bawa-Garba made numerous errors - for instance, not recording cessation of his medication in his notes and mistaking his notes for those of another patient with a DNAR order.
The hospital system made further errors, however. Dr Bawa-Garba was doing the work of two doctors, and there were no senior consultants or nurses on site. Nurses did not notify her of Jack’s deteriorating condition, and hospital computer systems were down for part of the day which delayed blood tests.
Dr Bawa-Garba was at one point struck off the medical register and barred from practising medicine, however, she was later reinstated following an appeal. Currently, she is practising medicine without restrictions - though at a lower rank than she was before her suspension.
Further reading: The Conversation
👉🏻 Read More: The Hadiza Bawa Garba Case - Medicine Interview Questions
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Harold Shipman - Medicine Interview Hot Topics
Harold Shipman was a GP in the UK who murdered over 200 patients between 1970 and 1998. He injected them with lethal doses of painkillers and specifically killed patients whose deaths would not arouse suspicion - for instance, the elderly or critically ill.
It was only when the daughter of one of his victims refused to accept the given explanation for her mother’s death that he was investigated and his crimes uncovered.
The Shipman Files (2020) is a BBC documentary that explores this matter in detail over 3 episodes. It is available on BBC iPlayer and can be watched if you’re looking for an exploration of how failures in the system of checks & balances led to his horrific crimes continuing for decades, unnoticed.
👉🏻 Read more: Harold Shipman Case - Medicine Interview Hot Topics
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MMR Scandal & Measles in 2024
In 1998, Andrew Wakefield published his now-infamous paper linking the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine to autism in children. This paper was later found to be fraudulent and Wakefield was disgraced. However, it sparked an anti-vaccination movement which continues to this day, with many continuing to champion Wakefield’s paper.
In particular, right-wing media in the UK continued to promote his views for years before his paper was found to be fraudulent - despite clear deficits in sample size from the beginning. They did so to oppose then-Prime Minister Tony Blair of the Labour party, who expressed views in favour of the vaccine. The ripple effects of this are still felt today, as MMR cases pop up in areas with higher proportions of anti-vaxxers.
Further reading: The Guardian
👉🏻 Read more: MMR Scandal & Dr Andrew Wakefield
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BMA Junior Doctor Contract
Strikes were carried out by junior doctors in England in 2016 following a dispute over what their new contracts would look like. Key issues of dispute included what constituted a normal working week vs unsociable hours, what pay should look like, and safeguards to prevent overworking.
Jeremy Hunt and the Conservative government backed a new contract which would have doctors working more weekends and unsociable hours with what many deemed to be insufficient compensation, as part of a plan to implement a 7-day NHS without allocating any additional funds. In 2019, a new contract was finally agreed upon.
Be prepared to be asked about the appropriateness of doctors striking, as this is a common interview question that links to this topic.
Further reading: BBC News, Express, Guardian
👉🏻 Read more: BMA Junior Doctor's Contract Interview Tips & Questions
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Breaches of Confidentiality in Healthcare
Breaking confidentiality is often considered to be a serious matter in medicine, however, breaches of confidentiality in healthcare are far more common than we may think. A report published in BMC Medical Ethics and linked below made headlines in 2016. It highlights some of the most common breaches in confidentiality.
In particular, over half of breaches involve the disclosure of medical information to a healthcare professional not involved in that particular patient’s care. Also relevant is the disclosure of confidential information to family members without that particular individual’s consent.
Consider the extent to which some healthcare professionals may not be aware of confidentiality rules, particularly when discussing matters with a family member without first verifying their identity and that the patient is happy for this disclosure to take place.
This paper can be very useful to reference in questions about confidentiality.
Further reading: National Centre for Biochemistry Information
👉🏻 Read More: Confidentiality in Health Care in the UK - Medicine Interview Questions
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NHS Postcode Lottery
The NHS Postcode Lottery is a pressing issue in the UK's healthcare system, highlighting disparities in access to medical treatments and services based on geographical location.
This "lottery" results in varying levels of healthcare provision across different regions, with some areas offering more comprehensive or specialised services than others. Factors contributing to these disparities include regional funding variations, differential health needs based on population demographics, and socio-economic conditions.
👉🏻 Read more: NHS Postcode Lottery
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Lucy Letby Case
Lucy Letby, a neonatal nurse at the Countess of Chester Hospital, was convicted for the tragic deaths of several infants in the neonatal unit between 2015 and 2016.
Her actions, which involved deliberately harming the babies under her care, have become one of the most alarming breaches of trust within the NHS, prompting widespread concern about patient safety and the ethical standards upheld by healthcare professionals.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, communication, and ethical practice in the medical field. As the details of the case unfolded, it highlighted the critical role of whistleblowing, the duty of hospital management to address concerns promptly, and the overarching need for trust within the healthcare system.
The Lucy Letby case is now frequently discussed in medical interviews, emphasizing its significance in shaping discussions around medical ethics in the UK.
👉🏻 Read more: Lucy Letby Case
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Covid-19
If you haven’t been living under a rock (or in New Zealand), you’ll be aware of the catastrophic impacts of the covid-19 pandemic on healthcare services, lives, and livelihoods. As perhaps the most prominent medical topic in the news in at least a century, you are likely to be asked questions about it at some of your interviews. However, as it is such a broad topic, it can be hard to know what to expect.
Some key areas may include:
Response: What has been the best response, and what should the UK’s response have been?
Ethics: What ethical issues have been raised? In particular, consider the allocation of resources such as hospital beds when there has been a shortage.
Misinformation: What threats are posed by misinformation, and how can we combat it?
Lessons: What lessons have the coronavirus taught us, and what can we do differently in the future?
Telemedicine: What do you think about the increase in online medical consultations? Ought it continue into the future?
Further reading: ourworldindata.com
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Medicine Apprenticeship Programme
The National Health Service (NHS) and Health Education England (HEE) have launched the Medical Doctor Degree Apprenticeship Programme, an initiative aimed at transforming medical education in the UK.
The apprenticeship programme encourages a diverse workforce, provides practical real-world experience from the outset, and helps foster a medical workforce that better mirrors the population it serves.
The Medical Doctor Degree Apprenticeship Programme will start accepting applications for the pilot scheme in September 2024. Aspiring doctors can monitor the NHS Jobs or the government’s Find an Apprenticeship website for updates.
👉🏻 Read more: NHS Medical Apprenticeship Programme in 2024
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NHS Core Values
The NHS (National Health Service) has helped millions of individuals since it was created in the middle of the 20th century in the UK. Over time, the NHS has established six core values to help guide its mission and culture.
It is fundamental that you know these 6 core values before any interview with the NHS or healthcare provider - and especially a medicine interview in the UK. Think about how you can use them both in terms of your past experiences and also about applying them to your own situations, both in the present and in the future.
👉🏻 Read more: 6 NHS Core Values for Medicine Interview
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Ageing Population & Social Care in 2024 - Medicine Interviews & Hot Topics
The increasing ageing population in the UK is a significant issue facing the healthcare sector, particularly the NHS. In England and Wales, over 18.6% of the population is aged 65 years or older, with people aged over 85 years old being the fastest-growing demographic. This ageing population is due to improvements in health, sanitation, and the control of infectious diseases, leading to an overall higher life expectancy. However, this demographic shift has placed immense pressure on the NHS and social care sectors, which are intertwined and depend on each other for optimal functioning.
The NHS faces challenges as more people are living longer, but with declining years lived in good health. These challenges include increased hospital admissions of older adults, prolonged illnesses, and complexity in care due to the intertwining of health and social issues. The social care sector, which primarily caters to adults with disabilities or chronic illnesses, is also under significant strain due to the ageing population. It is grappling with increased demand, reduced funding, increased cost of care, and significant vacancies in social care roles. This has resulted in substantial delays in providing social care support, affecting the discharge process from hospitals and leading to extended hospital stays for the elderly.
Understanding the connection between social care and healthcare is crucial, particularly for prospective healthcare professionals.
👉🏻 Read more: Ageing Population & Social Care in the NHS & UK 2024
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Other stations
If you’re looking for guides to other possible medicine stations, including how to answer questions like these mock medicine interview questions, then check out the other articles in our Ultimate Medicine Interview Guide 2024!
For individual help or 1-1 medicine interview tutoring, 1-1 mock interviews or general medicine interview coaching, get in touch with us at TheUKCATPeople. We offer expert medical interview preparation, including for specific medical schools. Check out the packages that we offer here!
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Other NHS Hot Topics in 2024
Cannabis Oil in Medicine
"Cannabis oil in medicine" is a growing field of interest in the UK, as research continues to explore its therapeutic potential. In 2023, the NHS has cautiously begun to prescribe cannabis oil for a limited number of conditions, such as epilepsy and multiple sclerosis, under strict regulations. This oil, rich in cannabinoids like CBD and THC, is believed to alleviate chronic pain, reduce inflammation, and improve sleep, among other benefits. Prospective medical students should familiarize themselves with the ongoing clinical trials, legal framework, and ethical considerations surrounding medical cannabis to adeptly discuss this evolving topic during their interviews.
HIV & PrEP
The NHS has made significant strides in "HIV prevention" with the widespread availability of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP). This proactive treatment is a cornerstone in the fight against HIV/AIDS, drastically reducing the risk of transmission among high-risk populations. In 2023, discussions around HIV & PrEP focus on access, awareness, and the integration of PrEP into sexual health practices. Medical interviewees are expected to understand the impact of PrEP on public health, the importance of early diagnosis of HIV, and the implications of antiretroviral therapy on patient quality of life.
Monkeypox
"Monkeypox" emerged as a notable concern for the NHS in recent years, with outbreaks prompting public health responses. In 2024, prospective medical students should be knowledgeable about the symptoms, transmission, and prevention strategies for monkeypox. Awareness of the NHS guidance on monkeypox vaccination, treatment options, and the efforts to contain its spread will be critical points of discussion. The topic also offers an opportunity to showcase understanding of global health relations, vaccine equity, and the importance of an agile healthcare system in responding to emerging infectious diseases.
Obesity Crisis in the UK
The obesity crisis in the UK is a pressing health concern, characterised by a high prevalence of obesity among adults. Key factors contributing to this issue include lifestyle choices, environmental influences, and genetic predispositions. The crisis has significant health implications, leading to reduced life expectancy and increased risk of various diseases. Addressing obesity involves public health initiatives like the sugar tax, NHS health campaigns, and mandatory calorie labelling in restaurants. Ethical considerations and the role of healthcare professionals in managing obesity are also critical aspects of this challenge.
👉🏻 Read more: Obesity Ethics in 2024 For MMI Interviews
NHS Pharmacy First Initiative
The NHS Pharmacy First Initiative, launched on January 31, 2024, represents a significant shift in the UK's approach to healthcare delivery. This innovative program empowers community pharmacists across England to diagnose and treat seven specific common conditions, including acute otitis media, impetigo, infected insect bites, shingles, sinusitis, sore throat, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women. By allowing pharmacists to supply prescription-only medications where clinically appropriate without a GP visit, the initiative aims to enhance patient access to healthcare, alleviate the workload on general practices, and streamline the process of managing minor conditions.
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Whistleblowing in the NHS
Whistleblowing within the National Health Service (NHS) represents a critical safeguard for maintaining high standards of patient care and ethical conduct. It involves staff members raising concerns about malpractices or risks to patient safety, often at personal risk.
This mechanism is essential for uncovering hidden issues that could compromise healthcare quality. The NHS has established robust policies to protect and encourage whistleblowers, acknowledging their role in fostering a transparent and accountable healthcare environment.
The significance of whistleblowing has been highlighted in various cases, where courageous individuals have brought attention to critical lapses in care, leading to systemic changes and improvements in patient safety standards.
👉🏻 Read more: NHS Whistleblowing
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NHS Postcode Lottery
The term "NHS Postcode Lottery" refers to the variability in healthcare services and treatment availability across different geographical areas in the UK. This phenomenon raises concerns about equity in healthcare, as patients' access to certain treatments, drugs, or specialist care can significantly vary depending on where they live.
Factors contributing to this include regional funding disparities, differences in local health needs, and decisions made by local NHS governing bodies. The postcode lottery challenges the founding principles of the NHS – to provide a comprehensive service available to all irrespective of geography.
Addressing this issue remains a key focus for policymakers, aiming to ensure uniformity in healthcare standards nationwide.
👉🏻 Read more: NHS Postcode Lottery
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Privatisation of the NHS
The discussion around the privatisation of the NHS involves debates over the increasing involvement of private companies in providing NHS services.
Proponents argue that private sector involvement can bring efficiency, innovation, and choice, potentially relieving the financial strain on the public system.
Critics, however, worry that it may lead to a two-tier system, where quality of care is dependent on the ability to pay, undermining the NHS's foundational principle of universal healthcare.
This ongoing debate touches upon fundamental questions about the nature of healthcare provision in the UK, the role of the state versus the market in service delivery, and how to best achieve a sustainable and equitable healthcare system.
👉🏻 Read more: Privatisation of the NHS
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