The Cost of Being a Medical Student: Part 2
Authors: Forson Dominique 
Published: August 2024

In our previous issue we highlighted theharsh reality of how the cost-of-livingcrisis is impacting medical students. Webrought to light the plight of medicalstudents with regards to dealing withfinancial struggles on top of the demandsof medical school. In response to thispressing issue, SURGO conducted a survey to gauge the impact on medical studentshere in Glasgow.We received 40 responses from Glasgowmedical students over the past 3 monthsand the findings were striking: 80% ofrespondents acknowledged that theirstudies had been affected by the cost-ofliving crisis, with nearly half feelinginadequately supported financially by theiruniversity. While this revelation wasn'tentirely surprising, delving deeper into thesurvey responses shed light on theunderlying reasons behind thisoverwhelming sentiment.Response to the question: Do you feel wellsupported finacially?A primary factor disrupting students' studiesappeared to be the necessity of working tofinance their education. Many respondentsvoiced the struggle of balancing part-time orfull-time employment with the demands of afull-time medical degree. Approximately 70%relied on income from employment, yet asignificant portion still found it challenging tocover necessities such as groceries, utilities,rent, and even commuting expenses to attendlectures. Such financial strain not onlyhampers academic performance but alsodeprives students of the social aspectsintegral to the university experience. Lastly, while some respondents reportedreceiving support from family or personalsavings, it raises concerns about thosewithout such safety nets. This underscoresthe persistent financial barriers hinderingaccess to education.Response to the question: Have your studies beenimpacted by the cost of living crisis?
Despite these challenges, our survey yieldedconstructive suggestions for alleviatingfinancial burdens. Many advocated formedical students to receive bursaries orgrants comparable to other healthcarestudents, especially for those undertakingmedicine as a second degree. Additionally,there were calls for enhanced support fortravel expenses related to mandatoryplacements, particularly for those studentsineligible for government travel assistanceprograms such as free or discounted travelfor under 22s. Results in response to the question: Have youever felt like dropping out of the course due tofinancial constraints? Moreover, respondents advocated forgreater transparency in the university'shardship fund decision-making process,urging for a more streamlined and lessintrusive application procedure. Finally,respondents emphasized the importance ofcompassion and understanding from theuniversity regarding the necessity of workingalongside full-time studies. Many felt that thestringent stance adopted by the medicalschool fails to resonate with the practicalrealities faced by students who rely onemployment to finance their education.Alarmingly, our survey revealed that nearly40% of respondents had contemplateddropping out due to financial struggles, asubstantially higher proportion thanreported by the Office for Students (OfS).While this figure was derived from arelatively smaller sample size, it remainsdisheartening to witness individualscontemplating dropping out as a potentialsolution. However, it's heartening to notethat the majority expressed resilience andcommitment to their academic journey,reflecting the dedication inherent in medicalstudents pursuing their future careers.In conclusion, while our survey underscoresthe significant financial strain on students, italso highlights opportunities for interventionand support. As we navigate thesechallenging times, it's essential to foster acommunity of support and empathy. In aclimate marked by heightened awareness ofmental health, solidarity and support aremore vital than ever. In the spirit ofresilience, we've compiled some invaluablepearls of financial wisdom from ourrespondents to offer hope and guidance amidthe adversity. Enjoy our pick of the bunch!
"Save up and work during summer and winter so thatyou 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 withthe increasing cost of living, I would have taken a year out to savebeforehand.""Split money between different accounts - it's a very foolproof wayof budgeting which prevents you from over spending"" .set aside a travel budget for placement." Try to go to the big supermarkets for shopping once aweek/fortnight instead of little Tesco because its so much cheaper.If al else fails, you can always make your savings back when youstart working as a doctor…""The further into medical school you get, the less time you wil haveto work. Capitalise on the time you have now and save up becauseyou 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 theseare super flexible and can fit around your schedule very easily.Lastly, sometimes a bit of extra work is good because that way youcan earn enough money to not just survive but to live your life fuly!""Apply for funds and help from organisations and the universitywherever possible.""Tesco meal deals add up fast!"Don't study medicine if you want to be able to afford life for thenext five yearsBetter planning, and communicate with those you live with. Forinstance decide how long you wil have the heating on etc to minimisebi 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 youthis. But what they don't tel you is that it's hard to STAY in medical school from a non-affluent background due tothe 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 ofearnings due to the sheer intensity of the degree and clinical placements.