A psychiatrist's journey to the UK - Dr Kevin Li

  • April 06, 2023
 

Are you an overseas Psychiatrist looking to move to the UK? Have you always wanted to hear first-hand the experiences of an international Psychiatrist who has been through the process, from completing their MRCPsych exams to GMC registration, and from securing an NHS job to 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 Kevin Li, a brilliant psychiatry specialty doctor who relocated to the UK from Hong Kong in 2021. Having passed the MRCPsych and English language exams, Kevin received full GMC registration with license to practise. He is now working in the NHS at Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust in the north of England – where he is making a fantastic impact on the service and wider community.  


What motivated you to move to the UK? 

Psychiatrists are in demand in the UK and Hong Kong psychiatrists who have years of experiences would be very much welcomed to work in the country. With some NHS Trusts there is also a well-established CESR program to help overseas psychiatrists with MRCPsych to attain specialist registration. Specialist registration in the UK is also well recognised in a lot of other English-speaking countries. 

Tell us about your journey through the Royal College of Psychiatry exams… 

I had completed my specialist training in Hong Kong quite some time ago. I only decided to sit the MRCPsych exams last year. Due to the pandemic, all exams were conducted online which actually facilitated a lot of Hong Kong doctors to sit for the exams. Having always been involved in training and supervision of junior psychiatrists, it helped me a lot to keep myself updated with the knowledge and skills required for sitting examinations.  

Do you have any tips or advice for overseas doctors who are currently working towards MRCPsych? 

For the MCQ based paper A and B, it is important to set aside time for some intensive studying before the exam as a lot of the knowledge asked would not come up in everyday work. It is also important to pay attention to minute details in each topic which would often come up in the exams.  

For CASC exams, it would be useful to form a study group with colleagues and have practice sessions together, as well as watching demonstration videos (such as some paid online courses) to learn the skill required to pass type of different stations. Time management (7 minutes) to complete the tasks in each station is also crucial.  

How did you manage to navigate and juggle the different aspects of registration whilst working full time? 

For overseas doctors having attained MRCPsych, registration with the GMC is fairly straightforward after taking an English proficiency exam, which should not be too difficult if one received medical education in English. 

However, as the GMC closes an application if it could not be completed within 90 days, I found it important to have all the documents ready prior to submitting the application, especially letter of good standings, further proof of qualification and training from the university faculty which took time to be prepared. 

Did you have any major or unexpected issues with the GMC registration process or your visa application? 

There had been no major difficulties in terms of the registration. The HR team and IMG connect have been in constant touch with me to see what my needs are and accommodate my relocation schedule. 

How did you find a general adult psychiatry job within the NHS? 

For Hong Kong doctors coming to the UK, it is better to look for job openings that specifically states that IMG applicants are welcome. It would usually take IMGs quite a while to adapt to the system in the NHS and it is important that the Trust would give time for induction and support for IMGs during the initial phrase when they start their job.  

It is also good to keep one’s mindset open to offers in locations that might not be the most popular at first look. Posts in popular locations such as Greater London or Greater Manchester are usually a lot more competitive and the support provided to IMGs could be less sometimes. It would also be a good opportunity to experience life in the UK out of the usual few big cities. There are always opportunities to move to another place after gaining experiences working in the UK. 

Tell us about a day in the life of an international General Adult Psychiatrist, newly started in the NHS… 

As a specialty doctor with the MRCPsych qualification, one is expected to take an active role in the MDT team with the support of the Consultant, for example on deciding on medications, deriving a care package with other stakeholders.  

There is a strong focus on mental health legal and human rights compliance in the field of psychiatry, as well as adherence to treatment guidelines in the UK. Some doctors may need certain time to adjust to such differences in practice from their home countries. There are junior doctors who can readily assist with physical problems of patients, which might make it easier for a Hong Kong psychiatry specialist to adapt after years of working in psychiatric setting only.  

What was your journey like to the UK during a period of COVID-19 restrictions? 

I arrived at a time when restrictions were gradually easing. It was very easy to arrange mandatory COVID tests according to the government requirements. Most hotels or Airbnbs would welcome arrivals into the UK to be used as self-isolation.  

What has been your experience working with IMG Connect? 

I had received excellent support from IMG connect in terms of securing a job offer that suits my level and experiences, as well as advising on the career prospect and negotiating an attractive numeration package. The IMG connect team also gave me a lot of useful suggestions about finding accommodation in a suitable area close to work.  

Most importantly they have excellent communication with the HR team in the Trust, which makes formalizing the offer and completing the necessary paper works much easier. 


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.   

 

Relevant Jobs

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 for an experienced Consultant Old Age Psychiatrist to join an established NHS community clinic in London. The post if suitable for overseas psychiatrists, including candidates who are pursuing CESR. Specialists in Psychiatry, holding a specialist certification would be suitable for this post, based on experience entering at either Specialty Doctor or Consultant grade. 

WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE? 

The post offered is that of Specialist Psychiatrist in Older Adult Psychiatry, working in both the community mental health team and the memory clinic. In addition to this post, three additional CMHTs make up the older adult community service for the borough. The personnel of the CMHT include: medical staff, Community Psychiatric Nurses, Occupational Therapist, and Psychiatric Social Workers. There is a Psychological Therapy Department which provides therapy for older adults and which works across CMHTs in the Borough as does the Occupational Therapy Service.

The post holder will have responsibility for the diagnostic assessment and treatment of older adult psychiatric patients from the designated catchment area referred to and accepted by the service. Outpatient clinics and domiciliary visits in the community will constitute the majority of the direct clinical care provided by the post holder.

WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN NORTH LONDON FOR PSYCHIATRISTS? 
This great world city is far more than just the capital of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. London is bustling, vibrant, multicultural and cosmopolitan. London is both old and new, a place where traditional pubs rub shoulders with the newest cocktail bars. Its most ancient castle is right next door to its newest skyscrapers. London\'s energy, as 8.6 million people go about their everyday lives, is tangible in every journey on the Underground, every stroll through a market and every walk along the banks of the River Thames. From the royal parks to the theatre stage, London really does have it all.

Working as a psychiatrist in London brings a range of exciting prospects. You will have the opportunity to work in some of the best mental health trusts in the UK, who will offer you the opportunity to constantly grow your medical and scientific knowledge and skills. In London you will have the opportunity to work in a wide range of settings, and as you progress through your career, you will have more opportunity to shape the way you work; you can develop research, work part time or full time and can combine your career with a wide range of other interests.


WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU AT THE TRUST?
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:

  • 6 years experience of working in Older Adult Psychiatry

  • Board Certified Specialist in Psychiatry (desirable)

Non-EEA Candidates:

  • MRCPsych (desirable)

  • 6 years experience of working in Older Adult Psychiatry

UK based applicants

  • 6 years experience of working in Older Adult Psychiatry

  • S12 (desirable)

83945 to 95275

An NHS job opportunity is available for an ambitious and passionate General Adult Psychiatrist to join a trust rated \"Outstanding overall\" CQC. This position presents an ideal prospect for psychiatrists from overseas who aspire to establish themselves within the UK\'s NHS system and progress toward a consultant-level career. It is well-suited for candidates seeking support to achieve Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR). Doctors must have 6 years work experience after finishing core psychiatry training or equivalent international qualification to be considered for this opportunity. 

What is the department & team like?

The department boasts a comprehensive General Adult Psychiatry department, equipped to deliver exemplary mental health care. Staffing includes a proficient team of consultants and dedicated junior doctors committed to providing superior patient care and support. The department\'s activity is marked by a wide spectrum of cases, ranging from common mental health disorders to more complex presentations. Patients receive tailored treatment plans incorporating evidence-based therapies, medication management, and holistic approaches to ensure comprehensive care.

Facilities within the department are modern and conducive to patient well-being, fostering an environment conducive to recovery and healing. Patients benefit from comfortable inpatient units, outpatient clinics, therapy rooms, and recreational spaces. On average, the department manages a significant caseload of general adult psychiatry cases annually, indicative of its pivotal role in addressing mental health needs within the community. The team\'s dedication to excellence and patient-centered care underscores the department\'s status as a leading provider of psychiatric services in the region.

What is the area like?

Location in a beautiful part of the south of England with easy links to London and Cambridge. Housing options range from historic cottages in quaint villages to modern developments, catering to diverse lifestyles. The location truly provides a balanced living experience, combining natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern comforts.

ELIGIBILITY FOR THE ROLE: 

Non-EEA: 

  • MRCPsych (Desirable)
  • 6 years specialist experience in General Adult Psychiatry
EEA: 
  • Specialist certification in psychiatry (desirable)
  • 6 years specialist experience in General Adult Psychiatry
UK based: 
  • 6 years Specialty Doctor experience in General Adult Psychiatry
52530 - 82400

Join an Older Adult Community Mental Health team led by experienced consultants and supported by a dynamic team of Specialty Doctors. This NHS Trust, rated \"Good\" overall by the CQC, prioritizes staff support and offers a flexible training program for career advancement and work-life balance. Ideal for overseas Consultants and specialists seeking to establish themselves in the NHS and also Junior Doctors or Specialty Doctors already in the UK. MRCPsych is essential for mosts doctors trained outside of Europe. European doctors would need specialisation in psychiatry with ideally expertise in old age. 

The post holder is expected to provide direct psychiatric services through the comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, treatment planning, and treatment of patients assigned to him/her. The post holder is expected to be involved in discussions about assessments, treatment and risk management of patients in accordance with medical standards. The final decision rests with the consultant.

Life in the West Midlands

The West Midlands offers a blend of rural charm and urban amenities, catering to diverse preferences of residents. Its picturesque countryside provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring historic landmarks like Worcester Cathedral. The area boasts reputable schools and universities, ensuring quality education for families. Transportation links are convenient, with access to major cities like Birmingham and Bristol, as well as airports for domestic and international travel. Housing options range from quaint cottages in rural villages to modern developments in bustling towns, accommodating various lifestyles and preferences.

Career Development & Opportunities Available

The NHS Trust provides an environment that actively supports career development and offers various opportunities for professional growth. Staff members have access to ongoing training and development programs to enhance their skills and stay abreast of the latest advancements in healthcare. The Trust encourages and facilitates career progression, with opportunities for staff to take on additional responsibilities and roles within their specialties. Continuous professional development is promoted, ensuring that individuals can advance their careers and contribute effectively to patient care.

For those seeking further qualifications or specialization, the Trust may provide support for relevant educational pursuits, contributing to the professional development of its staff. CESR is a key feature of this role, with a current cohort of candidates working through CESR you will benefit from excellent support. 


ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?

EEA Candidates:

  • Specialist Qualification in Old Age Psychiatry

Non-EEA Candidates:

  • MRCPsych (Desirable)

  • Experience of working in Old Age Psychiatry (essential)

UK based applicants

  • Experience of working in Old Age Psychiatry (essential)
  • MRCPsych (desirable)
  • Section 12 (desirable) 
93,666 - 126,281

An exciting opportunity for an experienced Consultant in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry to join an award winning CAMHS inpatient unit. The team supports each other in balancing high quality patient care while you are pursuing your own special interests. The team is part of an NHS Foundation Trust that is a leading Trust in mental health research. The Trust was rated as \"good\" overall by the CQC in 2019. The post if suitable for overseas consultants, including candidates who are pursuing CESR. Specialists in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry holding a specialist certification would be suitable for this post, based on experience entering at either Specialty Doctor or Consultant grade. 

Overseas applications from experienced Specialty Doctors and Consultants are welcomed. 

WHAT IS THE NHS FOUNDATION TRUST LIKE? 

The NHS Foundation Trust is the leading trust in mental health research. They provide excellent opportunities for professional development. The NHS Foundation Trust provides a broad range of community and inpatient mental health services, community services (including therapies), learning disability services, healthy lifestyle support and addictions services to a population of 765,000 people of all ages who live within areas of more than 4,700 square kilometres.

The Trust employs approximately 2,800 staff across more than 79 sites at locations throughout 4 towns. Their budgeted income for 2022/2023 is £186m. The NHS Foundation Trust works closely with major academic partners which ensures the nurturing of workforce of tomorrow\'s doctors, nurses and other health professionals. They aim to be a leading provider of integrated health services, recognised for the care compassion and commitment of their staff and known as a great employer and a valued partner.

The way they deliver their services has a direct bearing on their patients and carers’ experience of the Trust and, most importantly of all, their health. The Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust aim to provide the best services they can and constantly look at how they can improve them aspiring to excellence and be the best that they can be. They offer a wide range of benefits to help support a healthy work-life balance and support their employees\' overall health & wellbeing.

WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE? 

The service is a team of excellent and forward thinking doctors consisting of: psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, creative therapists and family therapists. There is currently funding for 4.8 WTE Community Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrists. The service aims to keep children and adolescents at home with increased support if possible. The Trust provides a comprehensive Specialist Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service for young people that are 19 years and under. 

The department has a Crisis Team that operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. While the Home Treatment (Intensive Intervention Team) aims to work from 8AM to 6PM, 7 days a week. The services is provided at various locations across the town in order to be able to offer families an accessible and convenient service within a less stigmatising and less threatening environment. There is also a team that works with people aged between 14 and 65, who are experiencing their first episode of psychosis or might be at risk of developing psychosis.

The post holder expected to make assessment of referrals/admissions. The post holder will liaise and collaboratively work with other services/agencies. The successful candidate is expected to have a care plan and treatment formulation, guidance on evidence-based treatment and effectiveness.


WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN THE AREA? 

Blessed with rural beauty, bustling towns and a dramatic coastline, the town makes a wonderful place to call home. Affordable property prices make living here even more appealing, with luxurious city-centre apartments, quiet suburban new builds and charming country cottages to choose from. Some of the UK’s finest beaches are located right here. Affordable property prices make living here even more appealing, with luxurious city-centre apartments, quiet suburban new builds and charming country cottages to choose from. 

The town is known for its quirky narrow streets and bustling harbour overlooked by the striking Gothic ruins. It is a fascinating town, unlike any other. You will enjoy the quirky fishing villages, the unspoilt sandy beaches, the staggering views from the clifftops, and the popular seaside resorts. You will enjoy the 800km of bridleways that weave through the peaceful and colourful countryside of the North York Moors National Park.

WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU AT THE NHS FOUNDATION TRUST?

With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, 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 Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Board Certified Specialist in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

Non-EEA Candidates:

  • Experience of working in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

UK based applicants

  • Experience of working in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT

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