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What Is a Doctor?: A GP's Prescription for the Future
What Is a Doctor? is a vital contribution to the ongoing debate about how we maintain an NHS that is both fit for purpose and free. Using stories and case studies from across his thirty-year career as a GP, Dr Phil Whitaker offers insight into the medical movements, political interference and societal changes that have transformed the role of doctor over the past three decades.
Much has altered for the better but, even when based on good intentions, an equal or greater amount has been damaging and threatens the sustainability of the NHS. In examining what it means to be a doctor today, this book also answers an accompanying question ‘what is a patient?’ – and how we can all take a more active role in our healthcare. And, looking forward, Dr Whitaker describes what might yet be done to restore the NHS and its capacity for properly patient-centred care.
Much has altered for the better but, even when based on good intentions, an equal or greater amount has been damaging and threatens the sustainability of the NHS. In examining what it means to be a doctor today, this book also answers an accompanying question ‘what is a patient?’ – and how we can all take a more active role in our healthcare. And, looking forward, Dr Whitaker describes what might yet be done to restore the NHS and its capacity for properly patient-centred care.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
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July 30, 2026Wow wow wow. An absolutely fantastic book detailing some of the issues within the NHS and how we ended up here. But the book also outlines issues and gaps within how many doctors practise medicine and why, for our patients, we need to change. For me, this book is deeply influential and I’m sure I’ll be thinking about it a lot in my final 2 years, and post qualification.
November 5, 2023
This was genuinely brilliant.
As a son of a district nurse, it’s been clear throughout my adolescence into my adulthood that the NHS has been in decline. I tended to put it down to lack of spending- New Labour spent and waiting times went down and satisfaction rose, while the Tories cut and the inverse occurred.
Dr. Whitaker makes it clear that the issues are far deeper than that, skilfully weaving between patient stories and larger points as well as providing an excellent, clear and thought provoking conclusion.
As a son of a district nurse, it’s been clear throughout my adolescence into my adulthood that the NHS has been in decline. I tended to put it down to lack of spending- New Labour spent and waiting times went down and satisfaction rose, while the Tories cut and the inverse occurred.
Dr. Whitaker makes it clear that the issues are far deeper than that, skilfully weaving between patient stories and larger points as well as providing an excellent, clear and thought provoking conclusion.
March 3, 2025
A brilliant book exploring both issues within the NHS and areas where doctors can do better. Whitaker does a great job of combining his ideas with specific patient stories to help understand the crux of the point.
Will be reflecting on this book in the run up to the end of medical school, and thinking about how I can be the best doctor for my patients.
Will be reflecting on this book in the run up to the end of medical school, and thinking about how I can be the best doctor for my patients.
May 19, 2024
really interesting perspective of a GP on the importance of proper patient centred care and the connotations of overmedicalisation
also learnt that patients are 30% less likely to present to secondary care in an emergency, if they have a regular GP and continuity of care with that GP
also learnt that patients are 30% less likely to present to secondary care in an emergency, if they have a regular GP and continuity of care with that GP
January 22, 2024
Having experienced first hand Phil’s inspirational way of caring for his patients whilst working alongside him as his trainee on an out of hours shift it’s no surprise that this is the fastest I’ve ever read a medical book! Thoroughly enjoyed it.
November 17, 2023
Very close to 5*
December 17, 2023
A very interesting reflection and exploration into what is a doctor. The author has been a GP for a few decades and has seen a change in the medical landscape in the battle of productivity vs cost. I think it a privilege to have grown up in an era when I too had a GP I saw, instead of just anyone in the GP surgery. He documents the change from prescriptive to collaborative style of being a doctor and communication with the patient, and makes a compelling case towards having clearer communication an involving the person in their own health and decisions about treatment or medication. He also highlights how standards come to be and the gross over-estimation of benefit when medication is being produced by generic brands instead of the patented first creators. Definitely made me appreciate my experiences with GPs more when I have been treated more as an equal in the room rather than hurried out to catch up with caseload. Equally, the caseload is not manageable and there is a dire need for more GPs to be able to provide more preventative input and reduce the pressures from A&E.
April 13, 2024
What is a doctor?
Phil Whitaker
Dr Whitaker shares so many of the values that I had as a doctor and the reason I became a GP.
The importance of access to a skilled clinician who can unravel the myriad of possible causes of a person’s symptoms.
The doctor who has the time to identify the individual’s “ideas, concerns and expectations” and then works collaboratively towards a plan of action if required with planned review.
The value of continuity of care in building up a relationship between doctor and the patient with enormous benefits in reduction in expensive investigations and worrying trips down diagnostic rabbit holes.
The importance of evidence based medicine but the concerns about protocols driven by guidelines where the value to the individual patient may be very marginal particularly in the frail.
The chronic underfunding of primary care at a time where there are an ever increasing number of complex problems many of which have a public health aetiology but seen to have a medical solution.
The collapse of general practice due to burnout and problems with recruitment.
We are at risk of losing the cornerstone of the NHS, namely access to good quality patient centred medical advice from a doctor invested in our welfare.
5/5.
Phil Whitaker
Dr Whitaker shares so many of the values that I had as a doctor and the reason I became a GP.
The importance of access to a skilled clinician who can unravel the myriad of possible causes of a person’s symptoms.
The doctor who has the time to identify the individual’s “ideas, concerns and expectations” and then works collaboratively towards a plan of action if required with planned review.
The value of continuity of care in building up a relationship between doctor and the patient with enormous benefits in reduction in expensive investigations and worrying trips down diagnostic rabbit holes.
The importance of evidence based medicine but the concerns about protocols driven by guidelines where the value to the individual patient may be very marginal particularly in the frail.
The chronic underfunding of primary care at a time where there are an ever increasing number of complex problems many of which have a public health aetiology but seen to have a medical solution.
The collapse of general practice due to burnout and problems with recruitment.
We are at risk of losing the cornerstone of the NHS, namely access to good quality patient centred medical advice from a doctor invested in our welfare.
5/5.
July 5, 2023
In "What Is a Doctor?: A GP's Prescription for the Future," Dr. Phil Whitaker delivers a captivating and timely analysis of the evolving role of doctors in the National Health Service (NHS). Drawing on his extensive experience as a general practitioner, Dr. Whitaker weaves together stories and case studies from his thirty-year career, shedding light on the intricate dynamics that have shaped the medical profession.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its exploration of the patient-doctor relationship. Dr. Whitaker delves deep into the fundamental question of what it means to be a doctor today, skillfully highlighting the challenges and rewards of working within a healthcare system influenced by medical movements, political interference, and societal changes. Through his narratives, he illuminates the profound impact these factors have had on the doctor-patient dynamic.
Dr. Whitaker provides a balanced perspective by acknowledging the positive transformations that have occurred over the years. However, he does not shy away from addressing the damaging consequences that have arisen from well-intentioned but misguided practices. By doing so, he compels readers to contemplate the sustainability of the NHS and prompts us to consider our role as patients in shaping our healthcare experiences.
Moreover, the author offers invaluable insights into the importance of continuity in healthcare. Recognizing the significance of a long-term relationship between patients and their doctors, Dr. Whitaker emphasizes the benefits of continuity in ensuring patient-centered care. He skillfully argues for the restoration of this crucial aspect within the NHS, advocating for a system that values and prioritizes the well-being and satisfaction of patients.
"What Is a Doctor?" is an engaging and thought-provoking read that not only sheds light on the complexities of the medical profession but also inspires readers to take an active role in their healthcare journey. Dr. Whitaker's writing style is accessible, making the book accessible to both healthcare professionals and the general public alike.
Although the book primarily focuses on the UK healthcare system, its relevance extends beyond borders. The author's astute observations and proposals for reform provide valuable insights that can be applied to healthcare systems worldwide.
In conclusion, "What Is a Doctor?: A GP's Prescription for the Future" is a vital contribution to the ongoing discourse surrounding the NHS. Dr. Phil Whitaker's wealth of experience, combined with his insightful storytelling, enables readers to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by doctors and patients alike. By highlighting the significance of the patient-doctor relationship and advocating for continuity in care, this book invites us to reflect on our healthcare systems and consider the necessary steps for positive change.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its exploration of the patient-doctor relationship. Dr. Whitaker delves deep into the fundamental question of what it means to be a doctor today, skillfully highlighting the challenges and rewards of working within a healthcare system influenced by medical movements, political interference, and societal changes. Through his narratives, he illuminates the profound impact these factors have had on the doctor-patient dynamic.
Dr. Whitaker provides a balanced perspective by acknowledging the positive transformations that have occurred over the years. However, he does not shy away from addressing the damaging consequences that have arisen from well-intentioned but misguided practices. By doing so, he compels readers to contemplate the sustainability of the NHS and prompts us to consider our role as patients in shaping our healthcare experiences.
Moreover, the author offers invaluable insights into the importance of continuity in healthcare. Recognizing the significance of a long-term relationship between patients and their doctors, Dr. Whitaker emphasizes the benefits of continuity in ensuring patient-centered care. He skillfully argues for the restoration of this crucial aspect within the NHS, advocating for a system that values and prioritizes the well-being and satisfaction of patients.
"What Is a Doctor?" is an engaging and thought-provoking read that not only sheds light on the complexities of the medical profession but also inspires readers to take an active role in their healthcare journey. Dr. Whitaker's writing style is accessible, making the book accessible to both healthcare professionals and the general public alike.
Although the book primarily focuses on the UK healthcare system, its relevance extends beyond borders. The author's astute observations and proposals for reform provide valuable insights that can be applied to healthcare systems worldwide.
In conclusion, "What Is a Doctor?: A GP's Prescription for the Future" is a vital contribution to the ongoing discourse surrounding the NHS. Dr. Phil Whitaker's wealth of experience, combined with his insightful storytelling, enables readers to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by doctors and patients alike. By highlighting the significance of the patient-doctor relationship and advocating for continuity in care, this book invites us to reflect on our healthcare systems and consider the necessary steps for positive change.
November 7, 2024
This was especially interesting to read as a GP registrar (a doctor in their final stage of specialist training in General Practice). Dr Whitaker's diagnosis seems essentially correct, and matches very closely to my own, much more limited, experience of the NHS. It essentially boils down to loss of continuity, the erosion of generalism in medicine, the impact of QOF/target culture, and the onus on risk reduction being put on the individual level rather than that of public health (the latter more tenuously argued than the others).
The management plan proposed seems less clear. I would have been interested to hear how it is that a minority of practices are managing to maintain some semblance of continuity of care, because it seems a world away from every practice I've worked at or even heard of.
The other thing that strikes me is a high level of faith in the role of public health and other government intervention. This is also skimmed over, with the only justification given being the success of anti-smoking campaigns. This seems like weak evidence - the harms of smoking are well understood, it isn't (unlike food) required to live, and the desired outcome is straightforward (less people smoking). While socio-economic factors are clearly well correlated with health outcomes, it is less clear that they are 'determinants' of health, and less clear again that measures to address them are of any genuine value in affecting health outcomes. This is to say nothing of the serious political and ethical considerations in state paternalism that Dr Whittaker is quick to downplay.
The management plan proposed seems less clear. I would have been interested to hear how it is that a minority of practices are managing to maintain some semblance of continuity of care, because it seems a world away from every practice I've worked at or even heard of.
The other thing that strikes me is a high level of faith in the role of public health and other government intervention. This is also skimmed over, with the only justification given being the success of anti-smoking campaigns. This seems like weak evidence - the harms of smoking are well understood, it isn't (unlike food) required to live, and the desired outcome is straightforward (less people smoking). While socio-economic factors are clearly well correlated with health outcomes, it is less clear that they are 'determinants' of health, and less clear again that measures to address them are of any genuine value in affecting health outcomes. This is to say nothing of the serious political and ethical considerations in state paternalism that Dr Whittaker is quick to downplay.
October 9, 2024
I'm surprising there aren't more reviews. I've seen this book line the front displays of multiple bookshops so I decided to give it a try, especially as I've been in a non-fic mood recently.
Someone in healthcare might have a different perspective but from my viewpoint, it feels like Phil is bang on about a lot of things. I would like to see more patient-centred medicine, see continuity of care as the norm and not struggle to get a GP appointment. Overdiagnosis doesn't help anyone and fewer generalists compared to specialists means holistic care isn't being prioritised (and indeed may not be the norm). Importing doctors isn't a solution and it deprives their native countries of their needed expertise. Since tackling tobacco, there has been very limited progress in terms of public health initiatives that can make the difference. More investment is needed there.
My mother was fast-tracked for surgery to have her womb removed only to be stopped by the surgeon on the day who said none of her symptoms necessitated such an invasive procedure and cancelled it there and then. Thank bloody God he caught it, but how did it go so far in the first place? Trust has been lost and there isn't an easy fix for that.
Someone in healthcare might have a different perspective but from my viewpoint, it feels like Phil is bang on about a lot of things. I would like to see more patient-centred medicine, see continuity of care as the norm and not struggle to get a GP appointment. Overdiagnosis doesn't help anyone and fewer generalists compared to specialists means holistic care isn't being prioritised (and indeed may not be the norm). Importing doctors isn't a solution and it deprives their native countries of their needed expertise. Since tackling tobacco, there has been very limited progress in terms of public health initiatives that can make the difference. More investment is needed there.
My mother was fast-tracked for surgery to have her womb removed only to be stopped by the surgeon on the day who said none of her symptoms necessitated such an invasive procedure and cancelled it there and then. Thank bloody God he caught it, but how did it go so far in the first place? Trust has been lost and there isn't an easy fix for that.
December 29, 2024
This is a terrific book by the GP author Phil Whitaker whose writing I have enjoyed for many years in the New Statesman.
This book intersperses the author's experiences as a general practitioner of decades experience with details from his own life , stories about patients and their experiences as well as hopes and recommendations for the future of the NHS and particularly general practice.
Phil Whitaker is an honest and compelling writer, not afraid to reflect on his own mistakes and learnings and generous in crediting others for their impact upon his learning and development.
As well as the personal stories he shares the most important parts of this book are the recommendations he sets out to protect the GP service in the NHS and prevent it from further decline that it has been experiencing over the last 15 years.
The importance of the continuity of care ( patients seeing the same GP over years ) and how it can both improve care and minimise cost stands out from his work as does the danger of rigid , algorithm driven forms of diagnosis and the danger of over prescription.
A fine and important work that I hope is heeded by those able to shape policy and action.
This book intersperses the author's experiences as a general practitioner of decades experience with details from his own life , stories about patients and their experiences as well as hopes and recommendations for the future of the NHS and particularly general practice.
Phil Whitaker is an honest and compelling writer, not afraid to reflect on his own mistakes and learnings and generous in crediting others for their impact upon his learning and development.
As well as the personal stories he shares the most important parts of this book are the recommendations he sets out to protect the GP service in the NHS and prevent it from further decline that it has been experiencing over the last 15 years.
The importance of the continuity of care ( patients seeing the same GP over years ) and how it can both improve care and minimise cost stands out from his work as does the danger of rigid , algorithm driven forms of diagnosis and the danger of over prescription.
A fine and important work that I hope is heeded by those able to shape policy and action.
September 22, 2023
*Essential reading for anyone remotely interested in policy or healthcare economics*
Phil Whitaker wields both the pen and his practice with a rare combination of pragmatism and heart. His ability to narrativise and personify his patient experiences, the changing nature of healthcare and the changes made by successive governments is the perfect antidote to understanding healthcare policy in a fleshed out manner. An antidote to the screeching whirlpool of twitter where a daily deluge of soundbites around the NHS lose the thread of what a healthcare system should achieve.
If you are an economist do not be dissuaded, this is not a fluffy book of human stories cobbled together with idealism. Dr Whitaker manages to sew together human stories with government changes of the healthcare system, how we got here, what should be preserved, promoted and what the practice of doctoring should look like moving forward.
I look forward to hearing more of his ideas in the future.
Phil Whitaker wields both the pen and his practice with a rare combination of pragmatism and heart. His ability to narrativise and personify his patient experiences, the changing nature of healthcare and the changes made by successive governments is the perfect antidote to understanding healthcare policy in a fleshed out manner. An antidote to the screeching whirlpool of twitter where a daily deluge of soundbites around the NHS lose the thread of what a healthcare system should achieve.
If you are an economist do not be dissuaded, this is not a fluffy book of human stories cobbled together with idealism. Dr Whitaker manages to sew together human stories with government changes of the healthcare system, how we got here, what should be preserved, promoted and what the practice of doctoring should look like moving forward.
I look forward to hearing more of his ideas in the future.
September 27, 2023
Interesting, and not a little frightening, but it is the view of one man. Whilst some of what he says makes a kind of sense, but suggestions, such as that to prevent a heart attack simply means you die of something else (obvious and unessesary to say as we are not immortal), seem to b designed simply to unnerve. Maybe I have misunderstood, and of course I recognise the crisis that indubitably exists in our NHS, I feel I need to listen to other perspectives before assuming his interpretations are correct.
May 3, 2026
I’m a GP which made me pick this book up and it was very informative. A bit tedious and political in some parts, but I enjoyed reading the stories about different patients and the changes with general practice, medical education and the NHS over the years. It is written more for patients as it does provide explanations of all the medical terminology, however I think it’s an insightful read for any practicing GP.
July 19, 2025
Incredibly good and current, fully accessible and just as beneficial for patients and other health care workers a like. Does a great job of highlighting the biggest areas for concern in the NHS today and I wholeheartedly agree with his recommendations.
A book every doctor, healthcare worker and patient questioning the efficacy of the NHS should read.
A book every doctor, healthcare worker and patient questioning the efficacy of the NHS should read.
April 23, 2024
Thought provoking, nuanced, in depth analysis of why the NHS is the way it is, from roads paved with good intentions to the outcomes of having successfully turned fatal illnesses into chronic conditions. And also, how to usher in a new era of medicine for a new era of patient and Doctor.
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August 20, 2023This book scares and inspires those of us who love the NHS in equal measure.
September 2, 2024
Interesting, if not quite scary.
September 16, 2024
Skilled colleague, skilled writer.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews