Yes this does seem to be the culture, at least for doctors working towards the more competitive specialties (such as surgeons). Things get much less hectic once they reach “consultant” at age 35 or so, but it’s an absolute grind until then. With no guarantee of success! If you see your GP with a bunch of extra paper on the wall, chances are they are one of the many that didn’t win the game.

What’s a good alternative though? These are high paid, high status, jobs for life. Of course it’s going to be as competitive as all heck to get them. Do we shame Olympic athletes for the dedication and sacrifice they must provide to obtain their goals? I’m not saying the current system is great, but any alternative could well be worse.