Racism in the NHS is subtle, insidious, and pervasive

Kar's well written and hard hitting article about racism in the NHS resonates strongly with my experiences.1 When I was training as a general practitioner in the early 1980s I was told by the well meaning course organiser that I would not get a job as a GP in that area (Norfolk) because of the colour of my skin. He advised me to apply to London or the Midlands to avoid disappointment. After completion of my training, I applied on a weekly basis for every GP vacancy in The BMJ, Pulse, and GP journals and magazines. I did not receive a single acknowledgment in return. Meanwhile my (white British) colleagues were attending interviews and being offered GP jobs on a regular basis. Eventually I got a job at a general practice in a small town, Holywell in North Wales, where I served the local community for nearly 30 wonderful years. After my retirement in 2017, my patients nominated me and I was appointed as an MBE in June 2018 for services to the local community. Sadly, racism-subtle and insidious-is pervasive in the NHS, in cricket, and in our society. It must be called out and tackled openly.

Automated summary

The author's experience of facing racism in the NHS resonates with many others who have faced similar discrimination. Despite initial challenges, the author persevered and eventually found success in serving a local community for nearly 30 years, earning recognition for their contributions. The article calls for racism, whether subtle or overt, to be openly addressed and tackled in the healthcare system, sports, and society as a whole.