A physician's journey to the UK - Dr Rehan Qureshi
- April 06, 2023
Are you an overseas physician looking to move to the UK? Here, you can hear first-hand the experiences of an international general physician who has been through the process, from completing their MRCP and GMC registration, to securing an NHS job and relocating to the UK?
IMG Stories is our series introducing you to international doctors who we have helped to relocate to the UK - sharing their personal journeys from working overseas to securing a new job as a doctor in the NHS.
Today we introduce you to Rehan Qureshi, a brilliant general medicine specialty doctor who relocated to the UK from Saudi Arabia with his wife, children and his mother in 2020. Having passed the MRCP and English language exams, Rehan received full GMC registration with license to practise. He is now working in the NHS at Scarborough General Hospital in the north of England – where he is making a fantastic impact on the service and wider community.
Tell us about yourself - what should the IMG community know about Rehan Qureshi?
I'm a physician with a special interest in acute and renal medicine and over 19 years of multi-centre clinical experience. My other areas of interest are clinical research, healthcare quality and patient safety, medical education as well as medical leadership.
What motivated you to move to the UK?
I was practicing overseas where despite working very hard, I had very limited prospects in terms of career progression and growth. I have always admired the NHS’ policy of ‘fair and equal opportunities for all’, and I view the UK in general as a fair and multicultural society.
Tell us about your experience with the Royal College of Physicians exams...
Honestly, these were some very hard times … as a family, it was quite tough for us while I was taking my MRCP exams. Each time I failed, my wife cried … but I didn't because I knew, the only way to get through the process and past failure was resilience! That helped and in the end I passed!
Do you have any tips or advice for overseas doctors who are currently working towards MRCP?
Never lose hope. Set a goal, work hard towards it and keep trying until you succeed! Avoid negativity and people who discourage you. Remember, MRCP is very much doable, though not easy. Practice is the key!
How did you manage to navigate and juggle the different aspects of registration whilst working?
I divided my day into four parts: work, MRCP, family and rest. I'd ususally finish work by 5pm and immediately begin my MRCP practice from 5pm - 8pm at the hospital. After getting back home at about 8:30pm, I'd have time for dinner and to spentd a couple of hours with family before going to sleep. The weekends were definitely better, but I'd still spend at least 6 hours in the library. I'd suggest you start your intense preparation no sooner than 6 months in advance. You need to work hard, but try to avoid burnout. For me, it worked.
Did you have any major or unexpected issues with the GMC registration process or your visa application?
I had none at all - everything went smoothly.
How did you find a medical oncology job within the NHS?
To be honest, I connected with Marcus & Ruaidhri, who did everything for me. They actually made my journey to getting my first NHS job a piece of cake! This was to the extent that when we arrived in the UK and reached our hotel, (at a time when the UK was in lockdown due to COVID), we had all our groceries promptly delivered by them. What more could anyone ask for? I knew some friends who were working with other agencies that left everything to them. With how much IMG Connect had helped me, I used to ask Ruaidhri questions to help my friends as well.
My advice: find yourself an agency that is known to be responsible and is keen to truly help. I personally found IMG connect very very helpful!
Tell us about your journey to the UK...
It was scary to travel at a time when the UK was in lockdown and COVID-19 cases were so high. However, my journey was made very simple, since all the logistics including visas were sorted by Ruaidhri, so we did not face any unnecessary hassle. I would say, it was a very smooth transition, we enjoyed two weeks of quarantine as we had been longing to spend some quality time together as a family and enjoy a good rest before starting up again.
What has been your experience working with IMG Connect?
The support I received on this journey was amazing. I absolutely could not ask for more. For the first time in my life, I traveled without any need to think or worry about logistics because they were being so well-managed by Ruaidhri and his team at IMG connect. My wife and I were traveling with young children and my elderly mother, and I must say, we have been taken care of very well!
How are you settling into life in the UK?
We have been settling in very well. In Scarborough, we have a beach that my children enjoy going to, and they also love their new school. Not for a single day have we felt that we are in a country of different culture, ethnicity or faith. My daughter had a pleasant surprise when her school teacher greeted her with 'Eid Mubarak' on the day of Eid festive, which was a great welcome during our first time celebrating Eid in the UK. The UK is truly wonderful and people are very welcoming here. It's beautifully blended multi-cultural society and we consider the UK our home now.
What have you enjoyed most about living in Scarborough in particular?
So many things: the beach, the variety of fun activities for children - like steam engine trains and parks. We've even enjoyed snow for the first time. Fish and chips are great! Traveling in the UK is absolutely easy and fun and there's so much to do and see.
What opportunities have become available to you through your work?
I am really enjoying my current role. Within a year of joining the NHS as a specialty doctor, I now hold 4 different roles: I'm a senior lecturer at Hull York Medical School, an SAS regional representative for RCP London, an SAS Teaching Fellow and a member of the RCPQI. I’m also starting my postgraduate certificate in health professions education funded by the HEE. I have the support of mt Trust with my CESR application and have been given the opportunity for research and to become a medical examiner.
For comparison, I was in my previous position for a decade, and only had one role with no career progression prospects.
What’s next for you now that you’re working in the UK?
I think you should always aim high with your goals. I aim to establish myself as a clinical leader as well as an academic leader, a clinical researcher and principal investigator. In the short term, I look forward to taking on the new 'Specialist' role and making progress on my CESR application with my hospital's support.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in moving to the UK?
This would be my mother's visa. I'm an only child, so I couldn't relocate without her. Before finding IMG connect, many agencies had contacted me with job opportunities and all refused to help with my mother's visa. IMG Connect on the other hand, never give up. Marcus & Ruaidhri, perhaps, enjoy such challenges :-) Ruaidhri literally went out on a limb to help me on this. He contacted people, introduced me to an agency, helped me prepare the entire case and finally - we got it done and my mother was given her visa! I can't tell you what a huge relief it was. A big thank you to Ruaidhri, Marcus and the entire team at IMG Connect for this!
Have you experienced any culture shocks living in the UK?
Not at all! As I said, the UK is a multicultural, multi-faith country. People here in Yorkshire are very welcoming. We can easily find Halal food from local shops which also sell vegetarian food. We have a mosque in town, and there are separate prayer rooms for both male and female Muslim staff in the hospital. We feel so at home here.
What have you missed about Saudi Arabia the most?
We've definitely missed our old friends, and relatives.
Is there anything you wish you’d known before you began your journey to live and work in the UK?
I already had most of the information I needed before I came by Ruaidhri and Marcus, so there was nothing that came as a shock or surprise to me.
Do you have any tips or advice for international doctors who want to move to the UK?
I have a couple of pieces of advice. Firstly, if you are struggling to progress in your career, consider relocating to the UK. Here, it does not matter who you are, or where you come from. What matters is how dedicated and hardworking you are and I think your hard work always pays off. The NHS is a great institution and wonderful place to work. Secondly, I'd say consider taking an specialty doctor role. It's a great position where you'll have career prospects to develop as a locum consultant and enjoy a good work-life balance.
Moving to live and work in the UK is a big decision to make but can be massively rewarding in many ways. International doctors have the chance to find a new home and the NHS presents an incredible opportunity to secure rewarding jobs, progress within their field and explore adjacent opportunities such as CESR (for non-EEA doctors), writing publications and research. Whatever route an overseas doctor may take on their journey to the UK, IMG Connect is here to support them through every step and welcome them to the IMG Connect family.
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Relevant Jobs
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
Are you a motivated and committed Consultant in Acute Medicine looking for NHS jobs and relocate in the UK? Then this opportunity is perfect for you!
Grab this chance and possibly start your career in the NHS! You will be joining a team that is always starting innovative ways of working to shape the future model of acute medicine. You will be able to take advantage of working within a multidisciplinary team that aims to deliver high quality care. The team is part of one of the largest NHS Trusts in the country, and not only that, it is rated \"good\" by the CQC! 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.
The department is a team of 7 enthusiastic and hardworking consultants that work within the Urgent Care CSU to drive forward their Acute Medicine and SDEC services. The department has two Acute Medical Units with a total of 57 beds and a co-located 4-bedded Enhanced Care Area, called HOBS (High Observation Area). They have a strong commitment to the delivery of same day emergency care which operates a 7-day services and sees approximately 400 patients per week, as well as delivering an excellent and established ambulatory VTE service. You will be given the opportunity to maintain and update your skills and knowledge through appropriate continuing professional development.
The successful candidate will be expected to:
- Work in all 3 areas of acute medicine (AMU, Enhanced Care and Same Day Emergency Care) and will contribute to the out of hours rota (currently 1 in 8).
- Work with the Trust and its consultant staff to deliver service patterns and job plans that meet this objective.
- Work in patterns that provide senior cover throughout 24 hours per day, seven days per week.
The department sits within one of the largest teaching hospital trusts in Europe, with access to leading clinical expertise and medical technology. They care for people from all over the country as well as the 780,000 residents of their surrounding area. The Trust has a budget of £1.4 billion, with 21,000 staff who ensures that every year they see and treat over 1,700,000 people in their 2,000 beds or out-patient settings, comprising 100,000 day cases, 125,000 in-patients, 260,000 A&E visits and 1,050,000 out-patient appointments.
You will be working in a bustling city that’s rich in culture and heritage. In addition, it is home to one of the largest train stations in the UK, which is conveniently located in the city centre. You will be living in one one of the best places to live in the UK, due to its affordable cost of living and friendly people!
Apply now and get the opportunity to work for an NHS Trust that always works to develop seamless, integrated care helps us to deliver high-quality local care for every patient every time!
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Acute Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- MRCP
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
Join an established Acute Medicine Department who is committed to providing top-notch care to a large volume of acute emergency medical cases, including critically ill patients. With 780 beds, including 388 for Acute Medical/Elderly care, their facilities include the Acute Medical Unit, 8 Acute Wards, a newly established 10-bed Coronary Care Unit, and a closed ICU/High Dependency Ward. They also have specialized units, such as a Stroke Unit, Elderly Rehabilitation facilities, and Continuing Care beds.
The department is part of an NHS Trust, known for its commitment to delivering high-quality care and services. They received a \'Good\' rating from the CQC in 2019, with some areas recognized for outstanding practice. In 2021, they won gold in the Efficiency Savings of the Year award and were highly commended in the Health Tech Team of the Year award. The NHS Foundation Trust employs over 5,000 dedicated professionals. They are considered one of the region\'s top providers of healthcare services, serving a population of approximately 310,000.
You will have an opportunity for clinical research and have a strong research governance structure in place. The are committed to providing the right development opportunities to enhance your skills and deliver exceptional patient care. This NHS Foundation Trust is within a thriving industrial town with a forward-thinking vibe. Its vibrant city center offers a diverse range of cultural activities. The overall living environment and the surrounding countryside is delightful, with excellent residential areas offering various housing styles at competitive prices. The area boasts top-notch shopping, social, and educational facilities, including both comprehensive and independent primary and secondary schools.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Acute Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCP UK
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
Discover an exciting opportunity as a Specialty Doctor in Acute & General Internal Medicine, you\'ll be a driving force in reshaping the future of acute care in the captivating region in Scotland! Embrace the chance to join a dynamic, forward-thinking team dedicated to revolutionizing medical care. The hospital you will be assigned to proudly serves its community, offering essential emergency, acute, and elective services. Be a part of a team that champions local care, ensuring patients receive support within their familiar surroundings.
Delve into the Medicine Department\'s transformation and collaborate closely with the Emergency Department, backed by adept hospital management. Experience unwavering support within a contemporary, well-equipped environment. The department sits within a health board that stands as a pillar of healthcare excellence in Scotland, collaborating with national bodies to deliver quality care. With around 14,000 staff, it oversees clinical governance and provides specialized hospital services. It serves as a tertiary and teaching center, delivering specialized care to the North of Scotland.
It is located in a place that captivates with its landscapes. From coastal tranquility to fertile expanses, this region offers a soothing commute amid picturesque beauty. Navigate well-maintained roads with a tranquil pace, enjoying a connection with nature as you journey.
The opportunity extends to education, with advanced facilities and affiliations with institutions like the University of the Highlands and Islands. For IMGs seeking CESR, this is your pathway to growth.
Seize the chance for leadership, teaching, research, and continued professional development. Whether a new consultant or an experienced practitioner, you\'ll thrive within a supportive network of high-caliber professionals.
In summary, embark on a journey that combines medical excellence, natural allure, and career growth. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute & General internal Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Acute & General internal Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCP UK
- Experience of working in Acute & General internal Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Acute & General internal Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
An excellent opportunity for an experienced Specialists in Acute and GIM to join a Trust that have a national and international reputation for many of their specialist services - including stroke, renal, neurosciences, cancer services and trauma. The Trust also has a Mindful Employer Status and is committed to the Charter For Employers Who Are Positive About Mental Health. The post is suitable for candidates who\'ve completed their CCT or submitted their CESR Application to the GMC, the department also support special interest in Stroke, Geriatric Medicine, Acute Oncology, Haematology, Endocrinology, Cardiology, Emergency Medicine, Respiratory, and Emergency Department
WHAT IS THE NHS TRUST?
This trust is one of the biggest employers in the city with a central role in supporting the health and wellbeing of their local population. They also play a leading role in research, education and innovation.
The Trust has a specialist services that allows them to deliver care to 4.5m people from across the East Midlands and nationally for a handful of services and play a vital role in the education and training of doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals.
WHAT IS THE ACUTE DEPARTMENT LIKE?
The trust has one of the busiest acute medical takes in the country and has recently benefitted from a multi-million pound investment to redesign and upgrade the working environment
The department consists of 14 consultants along with around 45 middle and junior grade doctors plus a growing team of Advanced Care Practitioners, Physician Associates and prescribing pharmacists. Acute Medicine has been a key partner of the Emergency Department in the formation of service-led, patient-focused “front-door” research ......
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN THE EAST MIDLANDS?
The area is a vibrant and prosperous city with something for everyone. It has excellent schools and colleges, and two thriving Universities. There are good theatres, an arena which attracts national and international performers, and several renowned arts centres and museums.
Set within a county of outstanding natural beauty that includes lively market towns and wonderful historic buildings, the city is one of the UK’s leading retail centres with a wide choice of restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
There is a good network of roads with easy access to the M1 and the A1, the rail service to London (two hours) and other major cities is frequent, and there are numerous international destinations from East Midlands Airport (30 mins) and Birmingham Airport (60mins).
CAREER DEVELOPMENT & OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team. The Trust facilitates appropriate job plans, a clear framework for the delivery of medical education, and the opportunity to enhance clinical and teaching skills through Continuing Professional Development. Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
Consultants/Specialists who wish to undertake research require the approval of the Trust R&I Department and relevant ethical approval, and must adhere to the National Framework for Research Governance.
The role would also be active in clinical governance activities including (but not restricted to) clinical audit, incident reporting, review of complaints, risk management, CPD and Evidence-Based Practice.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Acute Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCP
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Acute Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT