This is a useful book aimed primarily at doctors based in the United Kingdom. However any medical practitioner will find the book a helpful resource on many of the untaught aspects of a hospital doctor’s job. The book, in its second edition, has been written by two notable, UK-based, Professors of Urology supplemented with chapters from management, legal, and financial experts. Two of the 13 chapters deal directly with the National Health Service (NHS) but the other 11 contain useful advice on generic skills such as management issues, clinical governance, and private practice. Of real interest is the section entitled ‘Success in medicine: voices of experience’. This is a collection of wise words and advice form prominent members of the UK medical establishment. The collection, rather than providing a recipe for success, provokes thought on how success might be achieved.

The book is well written and laid out and is reasonably succinct (217 pages). The reference section at the back provides a list of useful addresses (albeit UK ones). It is an excellent book for doctors-in-training who are thinking of spending some time in the UK and for those preparing to become a consultant.