A physician's journey to the UK - Dr Rehan Qureshi
- January 28, 2022
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 NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant in Emergency Medicine to join a UK-based NHS Trust. This role provides CESR Portfolio Pathway support, and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
What is the NHS Trust like?
This NHS Trust provides high-quality hospital and community care to its local population and visitors. The Trust operates multiple acute and community hospitals across the region, offering a comprehensive range of medical services. The Trust has received high ratings from the Care Quality Commission for its care and effectiveness. The Emergency Departments within the Trust provide round-the-clock services, backed by a full range of diagnostic and therapy options.
What is the department & team like?
The Emergency Medicine department is a vital part of the Trust’s Urgent Care Division. The department is well-equipped with modern facilities, including advanced radiology services and electronic health record systems. The team is composed of experienced consultants, doctors, and nursing staff, providing continuous coverage and comprehensive care. The department also includes specialized teams for psychiatric and rehabilitative care, ensuring holistic treatment for all patients.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within Emergency Medicine, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support and access to specialty training. The department supports the development of sub-specialist interests and offers opportunities for research, teaching, and clinical governance. The role is designed to support professional growth and career progression.
What is area like?
This region in the UK offers a compelling lifestyle for international doctors and their families. With affordable living costs, beautiful natural surroundings, and excellent educational institutions, it is an ideal location for relocation. The area is well-connected, with easy access to major cities, and offers a rich cultural experience with a diverse population and various recreational activities.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Emergency Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCEM UK
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant in Acute Medicine in the UK. This role is perfect for international doctors or UK-based professionals looking to advance their careers in acute care working in a high pace teaching hospital environment.
What is the NHS Trust like?
This NHS Trust provides care for a diverse population of over 1 million people across three main hospital sites. It offers a wide range of medical services, including acute medicine, emergency care, and specialist services. The Trust is known for its dedication to clinical research and innovation, with an active R&D department that regularly participates in groundbreaking studies.
The Trust prides itself on being a progressive employer, supporting staff through a variety of professional development programs. It fosters a collaborative environment where doctors can work alongside highly skilled teams. With a focus on delivering high-quality patient care, the Trust is an ideal place for healthcare professionals to grow and succeed in their careers.
The Acute Medicine Department & Team
The Acute Medicine Department operates a state-of-the-art acute medical short-stay ward, designed to manage high patient volumes while delivering outstanding care. The department is supported by a multidisciplinary team, including consultants, junior doctors, nurses, and advanced nurse practitioners. With a patient intake of approximately 60 per day, the department provides a fast-paced, challenging environment where you will gain extensive experience in treating a variety of acute medical conditions.
This role also involves working closely with the Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) unit and the Emergency Department (ED), both of which are critical to the acute care service. The department values teamwork and offers a supportive, educational environment for doctors looking to further their careers.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers excellent professional development opportunities, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, making it ideal for international doctors aiming to achieve Consultant status. You will have access to a range of specialty training options and the opportunity to develop a sub-specialist interest within acute medicine.
The Trust is committed to supporting your ongoing development through a comprehensive training program, mentorship, and involvement in innovative research projects. This role provides a solid foundation for career progression, whether you\'re new to the UK or looking to advance within the NHS.
Location
The hospital is located in an area with excellent transport links to London’s city center, major cultural sites, and international airports. It offers a mix of urban and suburban living, making it a great choice for families and professionals. The local area has affordable housing, top-rated schools, and a vibrant, diverse community.
With its proximity to major transport hubs, the area offers easy access to the rest of the UK and Europe, making it ideal for international doctors relocating with their families. The local area also offers plenty of recreational and cultural activities, making it an attractive place to live and work.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- NHS experience in Acute Medicine
- MRCP UK or equivalent
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Acute Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP UK
- Experience in Acute Medicine or similar
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant/Specialist in Acute Medicine to join a leading NHS Trust in the UK. This role offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and is open to international medical graduates (IMGs).
About the NHS Trust
This NHS Trust is a prominent healthcare provider in the UK, serving a substantial population through its network of hospitals and community services. Known for its commitment to high-quality care, the Trust operates across multiple sites, offering a range of specialties including Acute Medicine, Maternity, Surgery, and Intensive Care. With a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, the Trust emphasizes innovation, best practices, and patient-centered care. The core values of kindness, courage, and respect guide its mission, creating a supportive and dynamic environment for medical professionals to advance their careers.
The Acute Medicine Department & Team
The Acute Medicine Department is a critical component of this NHS Trust, focusing on providing high-quality care for patients admitted through the Emergency Department and General Practice. The department is expanding and includes a team of experienced Acute Care Physicians who manage a high volume of admissions daily. The department features a multidisciplinary team, including consultants, specialty doctors, trainees, and Advanced Clinical Practitioners, all working together to ensure comprehensive and continuous patient care. This role provides an opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to enhancing acute care services and patient outcomes.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within Acute Medicine, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The Trust is committed to supporting your professional growth through structured training programs, mentorship, and exposure to advanced medical practices. Whether you seek to deepen your expertise in acute care or explore sub-specialist areas, this role offers robust support for career advancement and development.
Living in the UK
Relocating to this region of the UK offers international doctors and their families a high quality of life. The area features a low cost of living, excellent educational facilities, and a safe, welcoming environment. With beautiful natural landscapes, including rolling hills and coastal regions, the area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Cultural and recreational activities are plentiful, and the region benefits from strong transport links to major cities, combining the charm of rural living with the conveniences of urban life.
??????Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Acute Medicine
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Acute Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP
- Experience in Acute Medicine
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced General Medicine Consultant to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant working in an established general medicine department in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
The Service
They are a forward-thinking healthcare organization committed to providing exceptional medical services to the community. With a comprehensive range of acute, primary, and community services, the Trust strives for excellence in patient care, clinical governance, and innovative healthcare delivery. The Medical Services Care Group is equipped with modern facilities including a 25-bedded Acute Assessment Unit (AAU), a 5-bedded Enhanced Care Area (ECA), and a 6-bay Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC).
Additionally, the Trust boasts a well-equipped Clinical Investigations Department, an endoscopy suite, a Diabetes Centre, and a Renal/Dialysis unit. The multidisciplinary team is dedicated to maintaining high standards and ensuring effective patient care from admission to discharge. With a focus on continuous improvement, the Trust actively supports clinical audits, quality assurance processes, and risk management initiatives.
The General Medicine Department & Team
The General Medicine department at this NHS Trust is an enthusiastic and dynamic team comprising consultants, junior doctors, and allied health professionals. The department is committed to providing high-quality general internal medicine services while offering opportunities for special interest in Respiratory, Renal Medicine, Acute Medicine, Frailty, and Stroke. The team works collaboratively within the department and across emergency and acute medical teams to maximize patient care benefits.
The consultants lead inpatient care, develop clinical guidelines, and participate in clinical governance activities such as audits and incident investigations. The department also plays a significant role in teaching and training junior doctors, medical students, and other healthcare professionals, ensuring a comprehensive learning environment. Active participation in major incident planning and departmental administration further highlights the department\'s commitment to delivering safe and efficient patient care.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within general medicine, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interest. The department supports continuous medical education, leadership development, and active participation in clinical audits and quality improvement projects. The Trust encourages professional growth through regular teaching sessions, educational supervision, and research opportunities.
The department is recognized for its commitment to the training of Foundation Doctors and medical students, providing a robust educational environment. The supportive policies for professional leave and external duties ensure that staff can achieve their professional goals while contributing to the wider medical community.
Location
This NHS Trust is located in a region that offers an excellent quality of life with stunning coastal landscapes, a safe and welcoming community, and a high standard of living. The area boasts excellent schools, a vibrant cultural scene, and diverse recreational activities. Beautiful beaches, historical sites, and natural parks provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities and family outings. The region\'s robust transport infrastructure ensures easy access to the UK and mainland Europe, making it an ideal location for international doctors and their families to live and work. The cost of living is competitive, and the community is known for its diversity and inclusivity, offering a warm and supportive environment for newcomers.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in General Medicine
EEA candidates:
- Experience in General Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP
- Experience in General Medicine
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Acute Medicine Consultant to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant working in an established acute medicine department in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
The NHS Trust
This NHS Trust provides integrated acute and community services to around 900,000 people. As one of the top-performing NHS trusts in the UK, it is renowned for its high-quality patient care, research, and innovation. The Trust aims to deliver outstanding care and services, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development. It is dedicated to developing new treatments and technologies that improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall healthcare experience.
The Acute Medicine Department & Team
The Acute Medicine department at this NHS Trust is a dynamic and supportive environment that deals with a high volume of emergency cases. The team consists of experienced consultants, junior doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals who work collaboratively to provide comprehensive care. The department is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and offers a wide range of diagnostic and therapeutic services, ensuring patients receive timely and effective treatment. The team is dedicated to delivering high standards of care, participating in national clinical audits, and contributing to research initiatives.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within acute medicine, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The department is committed to the professional growth of its staff, offering numerous opportunities for continuous medical education, participation in clinical research, and leadership development programs. The Trust supports a culture of learning and innovation, ensuring that all staff members can achieve their career aspirations while delivering exceptional patient care.
Location
This NHS Trust is located in a region renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including two national parks and a picturesque coastline. The area boasts a high quality of life with affordable living costs, excellent schools, and a safe, welcoming community. The region offers a rich cultural heritage with numerous festivals, museums, and theatres, along with a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports. With excellent transport links, including rail and road networks, it is easy to travel to other parts of the UK.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Acute Medicine
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Stroke Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP
- Experience in Stroke Medicine