A 65-year-old Polish heart doctor working for the NHS has been suspended after failing his 10th attempt at an English language exam.
The doctor, whose identity has not been disclosed, has faced ongoing difficulties in demonstrating proficiency in English, a requirement for practicing medicine in the UK.
The suspension comes after multiple complaints from colleagues who struggled to understand him in professional settings, raising concerns about patient safety.
Despite the doctor’s extensive medical expertise, his inability to communicate effectively in English has led to frustration among his peers and prompted the decision to ban him from seeing patients.
At his latest tribunal, it was noted that the doctor’s language barrier posed significant risks, as clear communication is critical for delivering safe and effective healthcare.
The case highlights the importance of language proficiency in the medical profession, especially for those working in a diverse, English-speaking environment like the NHS.
While the doctor’s career remains uncertain, the suspension has reignited debates around language standards and the challenges foreign medical professionals face when working abroad.
