Speaking as an ex-flying ex-service no. [wrt to the open/closed thread!] who has an eagle eye through the civilian dental/ medical profession, I would say: do NOT take the Queen's shilling.
The clinical limitations are significant, the budgeting is dire, the internal promotion prospect limited by an ever decreasing 'dead mens shoes' system, and by the fact the by and large most hospital based care is now centred around leasing capacity from.... the NHS!
Then there is potential loss of identity by the creation of the DMS - it cannot be long before all medics and dentists wear one uniform.
However, that said - a SSC and a passport to good study leave to do Fellowships can be a useful road to a Career Path.
I think that an agreement has been reached on equivalence in speciality training pathways with the NHS, but that should be confirmed. You would not want to find 6 years service is treated as dead time by the civilian sector.
Patently you can be despatched to some unusual theatres and the 'war roles' add to the variety of life. The cameraderie and uniform aspects are a matter of personal decision.
But IMHO morale and resourcing are bedevilled by the Treasury and some high profile personality clashes amongst their airships [and equivalents] all fighting for the limited gong list. it is like musical chairs: there is always one less job after Christmas!
It will not be long before the DMS become a civilianised agency, as a logical progression toward 'value added' spend of taxpayers money.
Don't do it, marvo!
[ 29 September 2001: Message edited by: Reheat On ]