10 Minute Consultation: Dr Waqar Ahmed

Why did you choose to be a GP?

My dad made me.

What's the best thing about being a GP?

Creating a shared story with patients.

What's the most frustrating thing about being a GP?

Not having the resources to look after patients properly.

What are you most proud of in your career?

Doing a workshop with Roger Neighbour at RCGP conference.

What has been the most important lesson you have learnt during your career?

Pay attention as much as you can and say as little as humanly possible.  I realise that's kind of two lessons but one wouldn't really work without the other.

What is the biggest challenge for current GPs?

Not having the funding to care for their patients properly or even get a job.

What challenges are specific to Northern Ireland?

Massive inequality, deprivation and poverty, plus people from Northern Ireland have a thing about arguing.

Why do you think it's important to be a College member?

So that Jamie Hynes stops making me look inadequate.

What would you be if you weren't a GP?

Bored.