A FORMER doctor is using his latest tour to shed a comedic light on the state of the country’s health service.

Phil Hammond, is qualified doctor, BBC broadcaster, Private Eye journalist, activist and whistle blowing comic.

His new tour rolls two topical comedies into one, covering subjects he is passionate about like living well, staying sane, dying with dignity and saving the NHS.

In the first half, Phil ponders what we can do to sort ourselves out.

He looks back on his 54 years and asks how he has managed to remain sane in a family with a strong history of depression and suicide.

It is a dark look at modern day sanity that is delivered with a smile.

In the second half, the good doctor sets about saving the NHS, which believes is being ideologically and incompetently destroyed.

Both passionate and hilarious, the show will make you think as well as laughing your head off.

Phil said: “It’s hard getting in to see a doctor these days, so I always bring my black bag, prescription pad and sick notes.

“I tend to get problems from the audience, rather than heckles, and my changing room is open for swabs during the interval.

“Most of the material has a medical theme but it’s accessible to everyone. I aim for funny, therapeutic comedy with a message.

“I occasionally swear, and I’m a firm believer in demystifying medicine and destigmatising illness.

“I talk about all the things British people struggle with – mental illness, sexual health, death and properly funding our NHS.”

The show takes place at Braintree Arts Theatre, in Notley Road, Braintree, on Wednesday from 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £15 for adults and £12 for concessions.

Visit www.braintreeartstheatre.com.

Phil is also performing at Colchester Arts Centre on Thursday.

Phil Hammond was an NHS GP for twenty years, has worked in sexual health and now works in a specialist NHS team.