New ‘clinical uniform’ for Imperial medics on placement

The School of Medicine has unveiled a new free-of-charge uniform for medical students and has ‘strongly encouraged’ them to wear the outfits on clinical placements.

The uniforms are being rolled out this year to all students in Phase 1c, Phase 3a and Year 6 – who are engaged in clinical work – but Felix understands that in future, first-year students will be provided with the attire upon entry to medical school.

The School will cover the cost of two sets of uniforms per person, and is sending vouchers to all those eligible this year, so that they can order the uniforms online.

The outfits are navy coloured, and will be emblazoned with Imperial College School of Medicine’s phoenix crest.

They are intended to be a free and convenient alternative to the semi-formal garb typically worn by students on medical placements, but are not compulsory.

It is hoped the uniforms will make it easier to identify medical students on hospital wards and allow for ‘easier integration into the team,’ explained a person familiar with the plans. ‘Currently it can be quite daunting, particularly for younger students, to introduce themselves and integrate into NHS wards.’

The new clinical uniforms will not replace the sanitary scrubs worn by hospital workers and students in medical settings such as operating theatres.

Professor Amir Sam, Head of Imperial College School of Medicine, said that the announcement came ‘in response to feedback and suggestions from you’, writing in an email last Friday to Phase 1c, Phase 3a and Year 6 students.

‘We are keen to ensure your identity as medical students is supported, both on a personal and professional level.’