NHS Staffing – the role of overseas doctors

  • January 27, 2023
 

The NHS is estimated as the 4th biggest employer in the world, employing more than 1.7million...

Despite the scale of the NHS labour force, it still does not have enough staff to meet demand. In this article we will explore the reasons why International Medical Graduates (IMGs) want to work in the NHS, the demand for more staff across the UK in every aspect of UK Healthcare, and some of the reasons working in the NHS can be beneficial for you. 

'The United Kingdom (and the NHS) has been, and remains, a popular place to work for doctors and other members of the medical profession'

In the UK, as well as across the globe, it has been well documented that demands on health services have been increasing year-on-year since the millennium. Advances in technology and medicine, wider ranges of healthcare, and an ageing population all play their part. It can also be said that improved practices, safer staffing numbers and planning strategies have also contributed to increasing demand. 

Shortfalls in staff, leading to greater demand for overseas practitioners

Over the past few decades shortfalls in NHS Staff across the UK have increased in part due to the slowing growth in training sufficient numbers of staff. When domestic supply slows, the NHS looks to International Recruitment. Current figures estimate that roughly 13 – 15% of hospital and community staff are recorded as having non-British nationality.

The NHS is one of the most efficient, most egalitarian and most comprehensive public health services in the world. 

Unemployment levels in the UK are at an all-time high, yet despite this there are many areas of high jobs demand. According to the UK Bureau Visa Department, the UK is experiencing severe shortages in 3 main skill areas which are: engineering, healthcare and art & entertainment. So, for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) looking to build a long-term career, with good salaries, they need look no further than the UK and the NHS. 

Strengths within NHS attract overseas doctors

The strengths of the NHS, such as training, quality and ethos, continues to attract many overseas doctors. Many choose to work in the NHS because of the attractive salaries and benefits. But the work offers much more: the chance to enhance your clinical experience as part of a team of 1.7 million NHS employees, many of whom have come to the UK from across the globe. All of whom are proud to work for the NHS, and care passionately about its growth and development. 

The NHS is committed to offering learning and development opportunities for all employees. No matter where you start within the NHS, you will have access to the highest quality training and be given every chance to progress within the organisation and to develop unique skills.

The NHS doesn’t stand still, there’s always more to learn. With a progressive and forward-thinking plan, there is always new equipment, new procedures; there’s always something to keep you progressing in your career in the UK, or for your return to your home country to enhance practice. 

There's a growing market for international health practitioners to work in the UK, and demand is very high. With a professional health qualification and an IMG Connect consultant you can pick a lot of the UK in which to work.

Senior NHS figures have told IMG Connect that recruitment has to be approached in line with changes to the way health and care services are delivered and in demand. That means a much more sophisticated approach to understanding where professionals will be needed, at least in the medium to long term. 

With that in mind, IMG Connect offers an opportunity for some fresh thinking on the process of recruiting international doctors to UK Healthcare. A comprehensive Recruitment, Relocation and Retention service for permanent doctors only, helping to considerably reduce costs and time to hire. 

NHS directors increasingly demand a significant focus on aligning values and fit and after care, in order to build a fully complimented and sustainable workforce to meet demands. 

With the level of demand for healthcare continuing to rise, the need for overseas staff will continue to increase. 

Put simply, the NHS is reliant on IMGs who want to start a career in a progressive, welcoming and rewarding environment. 

If you are a client, we would be delighted to discuss your staffing requirements and develop a bespoke solution and hiring plan. Taking time to understand your Trust and the type of doctor that will thrive in your culture, IMG Connect looks to form successful working partnerships that continue beyond the initial placement.

If you are an IMG, we offer a personalised recruitment & relocation service to any International Medical Graduate looking to find work in the UK. IMG Connect can help you start and progress your career, with advice and guidance on every aspect of planning, finding the right job, navigating legislation and relocating. This service can be summarised into four key areas of support and guidance:

  • Exams, registration and Medical Qualifications 
  • Job search & interview preparation
  • UK Visa & Immigration 
  • Relocation, aftercare & ongoing career support

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Relevant Jobs

40,000 - 82,400

An exceptional NHS job opportunity awaits a Middle Grade Microbiologist to join the Microbiology Pathology Department at North Tyneside General Hospital. Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, rated \"outstanding\" by the CQC, offers an innovative environment. The role involves diagnosing and managing infections caused by microorganisms, contributing significantly to patient well-being.

This is an ideal chance for overseas Microbiologists or Middle Grade Doctors to establish themselves in the UK NHS system, with potential CESR support. Suitable for EEA-specialized candidates or experienced IMGs seeking career advancement.

What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?

This NHS Foundation Trust is a dynamic organization with an £180 million turnover, employing 12,000 staff to serve 500,000 people across acute and community healthcare services. Recognized for excellence by the CQC in 2016 and 2019, it primarily serves an urban population but extends its care across a rural expanse from the River Tyne to the River Tweed, offering picturesque landscapes. The Trust operates three major hospitals and numerous community facilities, including the state-of-the-art Specialist Emergency Care Hospital. With ongoing capital investments, it ensures modern, purpose-built facilities and expands its services to meet evolving healthcare needs.

They provide an extensive array of specialties, boasting some of the region\'s largest specialist departments. These include the foremost trauma and orthopaedics service, a significant cardiology department, and one of the region\'s most expansive units for colorectal surgery services.

The NHS Foundation Trust prioritizes supporting its staff in achieving a healthy work-life balance, irrespective of individual circumstances. Applicants unable to work full-time due to personal reasons will still be considered for the position, and adjustments to job responsibilities can be discussed on a case-by-case basis upon appointment.

What is the Department & Team like?

The Clinical Support and Cancer Services Business Unit manages Radiology, Pharmacy, and Pathology departments, as well as cancer services, across several hospitals. These services also extend to six community hospitals. With modern facilities and dedicated staff, the Pathology department, including the microbiology laboratory, benefits from significant capital investment and supports medical education initiatives.

The Microbiology team offers clinical consultation services through various channels such as ward rounds, telephone, email, and multi-disciplinary team meetings. They collaborate closely with Infectious Diseases, Infection Prevention and Control, Public Health teams, and the laboratory. Encouragement for networking with Consultant Microbiologists in the Newcastle area is given to improve patient care across organizational boundaries.

The microbiology laboratory holds a central position within the hospital complex. It comprises 240 m² of laboratory space and 74 m² of office space, established during the hospital\'s original construction in 1987. Specimens from clinical areas within the North East site are transported to the laboratory via a vacuum air tube system, while collections from GP practices and other hospital sites across the region are managed through regular courier and van services.

Life like in North East

The North East of the UK offers a diverse landscape, blending urban hubs like Newcastle and Sunderland with picturesque rural areas. Residents enjoy a vibrant cultural scene, from historic sites like Durham Cathedral to sandy beaches along the Northumberland coast. The region hosts reputable universities such as Newcastle University and Durham University, complemented by excellent schools. Transportation links are robust, with rail and road networks connecting to major cities and airports like Newcastle International Airport. Housing options range from city center apartments to suburban family homes and quaint countryside cottages, catering to varied lifestyles and preferences.
 

52,530 - 82,240

An outstanding opportunity for a psychiatrist to join Forensic Psychiatry Department as Specialty Doctor that has received outstanding ratings from the CQC on three occasions. You will offer psychiatric input and conduct assessments, both psychiatric and physical, for patients on two wards. One ward is a self-contained low secure rehabilitation unit situated away from the main hospital premises, while the other is a medium secure rehabilitation ward. This role offers exposure to a broad spectrum of clinical presentations, including personality, affective, anxiety, psychotic, neurodevelopmental, and substance-related disorders. Moreover, it provides a platform for developing knowledge and understanding of forensic mental health sections. This position also offers CESR support for those seeking progression within the UK NHS Jobs system.

This is a great opportunity for overseas Specialty Doctors who want to establish themselves in the NHS, and grow their career. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.

What is the NHS Trust like?

The Mental Health NHS Trust is a leading provider of mental health service serving a population of 1.2 million. With five main inpatient sites and 25 community locations, they offer comprehensive support for both mental and physical health needs, catering to young people and adults alike. From managing phobias and anxiety to addressing conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, their services are diverse and inclusive. They integrate community health services with mental health care, enabling simultaneous treatment of conditions such as diabetes and mental health issues, promoting holistic patient care.

Forensic Psychiatry Team & Department

The Forensic Service enjoys a stellar reputation, earning an \'Outstanding\' rating from the Care Quality Commission. The Forensic Service delivers care in low and medium secure environments, featuring specialized facilities such as the National Stalking Clinic and the Fixated Threat Assessment Centre (FTAC). These services focus on evaluating and managing risks for prominent individuals. 

The inpatient service consists of one acute assessment and treatment medium secure male 4 4 ward, four treatment and intervention medium secure male wards, one female medium secure ward, one medium secure and one low secure male learning disability ward, one low secure male FICU ward and 4 low secure male wards. There are currently 25 Consultant Forensic Psychiatrists in post, working with 5 senior psychiatric trainees who rotate with posts at other forensic psychiatric services in the region. There are 5 junior psychiatric trainees, coming from the UCH training schemes. The service currently employs 10 specialty doctors, working in the prisons and in the rehabilitation parts of the service.

Life in the area

The area offers a blend of urban and suburban living, providing both rural escapes and city conveniences. Residents can explore scenic parks or enjoy activities at different parks. The area boasts a range of quality schools and easy access to universities like Middlesex University. Transport links are excellent, with frequent trains to central London and nearby cities, as well as efficient connections to major airports. Housing options vary from historic cottages to modern apartments, catering to diverse preferences and lifestyles.

Career Development and Opportunities Available

With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, RCPsych exams, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD. 

Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:

  • Experience of working in Forensic Psychiatry (Desirable)

Non-EEA Candidates:

  • MRCPsych
  • Experience of working in Forensic Psychiatry (Desirable)

UK based applicants

  • Experience of working in Forensic Psychiatry (Desirable)
93,666 - 126,281

An excellent opportunity to join the dynamic team at an esteemed organization recognized for its excellence by the CQC. This is an opportune moment to become part of the Acute Medicine and Medicine Specialties Teams. With a strong history of achievements, they are committed to delivering exceptional patient-centered care. They seek a passionate and driven Acute and General Physicians to contribute to their mission of providing top-tier medical care across various clinical settings. This is a high performing and supportive department for overseas doctors new to the NHS, or UK-based doctors looking to further careers in the UK.

This is a great opportunity for overseas Consultants who want to establish themselves in the NHS, and grow their consultant career. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.

What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?

The NHS Foundation Trust stands as one of the nation\'s largest integrated healthcare organizations, delivering both hospital and community services to a populace exceeding 650,000 individuals. Renowned for their ambition and innovation, they boast a skilled workforce comprising over 7,000 dedicated colleagues. Operating across two acute sites for hospital services and encompassing centers and community hospitals in six towns for planned care, they extend their services even to patients\' residences.

Recognized as a high-performing entity with a history of accomplishments, the Trust has functioned as an integrated acute and community services provider since 2011 and achieved foundation trust status in 2007. Guided by their strategic framework \"Our Patients Matter,\" they articulate their short- and long-term objectives and delineate the path to their realization. This framework underscores their commitment to providing the safest, most compassionate, and seamlessly coordinated care to the communities they serve.

Within this NHS Foundation Trust, medical professionals are presented with a plethora of career prospects and exposure to diverse care settings rarely encountered elsewhere. Additionally, they have the opportunity to reside and practice in some of the most culturally rich and picturesque locations across the country!

What is the Department & Team like?

Within the Trust, there are 5 Care Groups: Urgent & Emergency Care, Integrated Medical Specialties, Surgery, Family Health, and Clinical Specialist Services. The Acute Care Team is housed under the Urgent & Emergency Care division. The Acute & General Medicine Department prides itself on delivering comprehensive and compassionate care to patients across a wide spectrum of medical conditions. Staffed by a dedicated team of consultants and junior doctors, the department ensures round-the-clock coverage to meet the needs of their patients. Their department handles a diverse range of cases, including but not limited to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, and infectious diseases. With access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities, including advanced imaging technologies and specialist clinics, they are equipped to provide timely and effective care to their patients.

The Acute & General Medicine Department boasts modern and well-equipped facilities, designed to optimize patient care and comfort. They have a 30-bedded Acute Medical Assessment Unit. On average, their department handles a significant number of acute and general medicine cases each year, reflecting the trust and confidence placed in their services by the community they serve. They prioritize patient safety, quality of care, and efficient service delivery, ensuring that each patient receives personalized attention and tailored treatment plans to facilitate their recovery and well-being.

The unit is adequately staffed and the working shifts are designed to ensure more doctors are present during the busy period of the day i.e. late evenings. They address the busy winter months by arranging extra locum cover during this busy period. In addition to the acute medicine registrar(s), there is a middle grade doctor, 1 IMT doctor and 4 FY1 doctors with staggered shifts throughout the day. In addition, there will be an on call registrar and 2 on call IMT doctors with staggered shifts. The night team comprises of one registrar, two FY2/IMT and one FY1 supported by an outreach nurse on most nights. 

What is life like in the area?

The North East of the UK offers a diverse mix of rural and urban settings, providing doctors with a range of living options. Residents can explore stunning coastal areas like Northumberland\'s beaches or venture inland to scenic national parks such as the North Pennines. The region is home to respected schools and universities, including Newcastle University. Transportation links are robust, with efficient road and rail networks connecting residents to major cities like Newcastle, Durham, and Sunderland, as well as international airports. Housing options range from quaint cottages in picturesque villages to modern apartments in vibrant city centers, catering to various lifestyles.

Career Development & Opportunities Available
 


ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:

  • Experience of working in Acute & General Medicine

Non-EEA Candidates:

  • MRCP
  • Experience of working in Acute & General Medicine

UK based applicants

  • Experience of working in Acute & General Medicine
93,666 - 126,281

An excellent opportunity to join the dynamic team at an esteemed organization recognized for its excellence by the CQC. This is an opportune moment to become part of the Acute Medicine and Medicine Specialties Teams. With a strong history of achievements, they are committed to delivering exceptional patient-centered care. They are seeking dynamic and motivated Consultant Gastroenterologists to become part of their welcoming and enthusiastic gastroenterology team. This presents a chance to join a dedicated gastroenterology team committed to delivering the highest quality comprehensive service. The service is aiming to broaden its focus on sub-specialty interests such as ERCP/EUS, nutrition, IBD, and Liver disease.

This is a great opportunity for overseas Consultants who want to establish themselves in the NHS, and grow their consultant career. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.

What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?

The NHS Foundation Trust stands as one of the nation\'s largest integrated healthcare organizations, delivering both hospital and community services to a populace exceeding 650,000 individuals. Renowned for their ambition and innovation, they boast a skilled workforce comprising over 7,000 dedicated colleagues. Operating across two acute sites for hospital services and encompassing centers and community hospitals in six towns for planned care, they extend their services even to patients\' residences. Recognized as a high-performing entity with a history of accomplishments, the Trust has functioned as an integrated acute and community services provider since 2011 and achieved foundation trust status in 2007. Guided by their strategic framework \"Our Patients Matter,\" they articulate their short- and long-term objectives and delineate the path to their realization. This framework underscores their commitment to providing the safest, most compassionate, and seamlessly coordinated care to the communities they serve. Within this NHS Foundation Trust, medical professionals are presented with a plethora of career prospects and exposure to diverse care settings rarely encountered elsewhere. Additionally, they have the opportunity to reside and practice in some of the most culturally rich and picturesque locations across the country!

What is the Department & Team like?

The Gastroenterology department is renowned for its excellence in patient care and comprehensive services. Led by a team of experienced and dedicated consultants, alongside skilled junior doctors, the department provides a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions for patients with gastrointestinal disorders. This encompasses conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), liver disease, gastrointestinal cancers, functional gastrointestinal disorders, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Facilities within the department include state-of-the-art endoscopy suites equipped for various procedures including gastroscopy, colonoscopy, and advanced procedures like endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Additionally, the department offers specialized clinics for conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, hepatology, and nutrition. On average, the department handles a significant number of gastroenterology cases each year, providing timely and effective care to patients across the region. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, the gastroenterology team continues to deliver high-quality care to patients with gastrointestinal disorders.

What is life like in the area?

The North East of the UK offers a diverse mix of rural and urban settings, providing doctors with a range of living options. Residents can explore stunning coastal areas like Northumberland\'s beaches or venture inland to scenic national parks such as the North Pennines. The region is home to respected schools and universities, including Newcastle University. Transportation links are robust, with efficient road and rail networks connecting residents to major cities like Newcastle, Durham, and Sunderland, as well as international airports. Housing options range from quaint cottages in picturesque villages to modern apartments in vibrant city centers, catering to various lifestyles.

Career Development & Opportunities Available

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:

  • Experience of working in Gastroenterology

Non-EEA Candidates:

  • MRCP
  • Experience of working in Gastroenterology

UK based applicants

  • Experience of working in Gastroenterology
52,530 - 82,400

Seeking a dynamic and motivated Dermatologist to join a Dermatology service in an NHS Foundation Trust rated \"good\" overall by the CQC. The NHS Trust provides a supportive environment for Specialty Doctors in Dermatology, including CESR support for IMGs seeking to establish their careers in the UK. Ideal for EEA-specialized candidates or experienced overseas dermatologists aiming to complete CESR.

What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?

The NHS Foundation Trust operates as a district general hospital. It oversees the management of two hospitals. This NHS Foundation Trust offers an exceptional work environment characterized by numerous dedicated teams committed to delivering top-notch patient care. They have embraced significant changes to their operational approach to effectively address the evolving landscape of the NHS, earning a Good rating from the Care Quality Commission in June 2018.

At this NHS Foundation Trust, they are pioneering the digital health revolution. Since implementing a comprehensive Electronic Patient Record system in 2017, they have embarked on a journey to establish ourselves as the safest, most efficient, and patient-centered trust within the NHS. The Electronic Patient Record system is just one component of their ongoing initiative to cultivate a digital ecosystem within the trust, ultimately striving to become a completely paper-free organization. This modernization endeavor opens up exciting avenues for future research and development in the rapidly evolving field of medicine. By joining the team, you have the opportunity to contribute to this innovative domain dedicated to enhancing patient care through advancements in technology.

Dermatology Team & Department

The Dermatology service sees 16,500 appointments yearly for diagnosing and treating various skin conditions, including skin cancers, lesions, eczema, psoriasis, urticaria, and Vulval conditions. The Dermatology Department is offering outpatient clinics and a comprehensive array of treatments, including minor operations. Additionally, a limited number of clinics and treatments are available at the newly established outpatient facility located in one of their sites.

The Dermatology service currently has over 5000 2ww Outpatient attendances per annum for the diagnosis and treatment of potential skin cancer. Outpatient clinics are run from both sites with an inpatient in-reach service run across their two sites. Facilities within the dermatology department include modern outpatient clinics, diagnostic services, and treatment rooms, ensuring a comfortable and efficient environment for patients and staff alike. They also collaborate closely with other specialties within the trust to provide multidisciplinary care when required, ensuring holistic management of complex cases.

Life in Yorkshire & Humberside

Yorkshire & Humberside offers a diverse mix of rural and urban settings, providing a range of living environments for doctors. Residents can enjoy scenic landscapes, including the Yorkshire Dales and Yorkshire Moors, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. The region boasts top-quality schools and universities, such as the University of Leeds and the University of Sheffield. Transportation links are excellent, with easy access to major cities like Leeds, Sheffield, and Manchester via road and rail networks. Housing options vary from quaint villages to bustling city centers, catering to different preferences and lifestyles.

Career Development and Opportunities Available

With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, RCPsych exams, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD. 

Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?

All candidates must be GMC registered to be suitable for consideration.

EEA Candidates:

  • Experience of working in Dermatology
  • Relevant primary medical qualification

Non-EEA Candidates:

  • MRCP UK or PLAB
  • SCE dermatology desirable
  • Experience of working in Dermatology

UK based applicants:

  • Experience of working in Dermatology

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