Emergency Medicine – A Doctor’s Route to the UK
- March 14, 2022
There are several routes overseas Emergency Medicine doctors can take to GMC registration & securing an NHS emergency medicine job.
Whether you are from inside or outside of Europe, will need to satisfy certain criteria to fully register with the Emergency Medical Council (GMC) before beginning their journey in the NHS. As an overseas doctor, the criteria you need to meet depends on where you currently live and practice, either inside the EEA (& associated countries) or outside the EEA.
This article is designed to give you a snapshot of the steps you need to take to start your journey to the UK, no matter where in the world you live.
“Doctors from countries around the world play a vital and significant role in our NHS and in the delivery of safe patient care. This is not only welcome but is part of the continuous exchange of knowledge in healthcare and should be strongly encouraged. They make an invaluable contribution to the NHS.”
Joint statement from the Royal College of Physicians
Inside the EEA
Firstly, it is important to note that where we refer to EEA in this article this refers to all countries inside the EU, including Lichtenstein, Iceland & Norway.
If you qualified as a doctor inside the EEA or Switzerland, then the good news is that you don’t need to demonstrate your medical knowledge and skills to work as a doctor in the UK – you have already done this, and thanks to the EU your qualification is deemed equivalent.
In addition, you will not need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.
So, the main hurdle that you will face is demonstrating that your English skills are of a high enough standard to practice safely as a doctor in the UK & NHS.
English Language Testing
Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language.
You can do this by passing either of the following:
- IELTS – International English Language Testing System
- OET – Occupational English Test
Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:
IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors
OET – a guide for overseas doctors
GMC Registration
Having passed your English Language Test, you can now apply for full registration with a license to practice with the GMC. For full GMC registration you must provide evidence of:
- Evidence of English language capabilities (IELTS or OET)
AND
- Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (your equivalent qualifications)
Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article here: IMG Resources - GMC Registration for overseas doctors
Job search
We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for European doctors in the NHS is ever-increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms!
At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for European doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of jobs than are readily available online.
Our network extends to psychiatry services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.
In addition, your dedicated consultant, with a specialty knowledge of Emergency Medicine, will negotiate on your behalf ensuring you get the most competitive salary.
Our aim is to have a job offer on the table before your GMC registration is complete, giving you the peace of mind of having an agreed contract in place - leaving you to carefully plan your relocation to the UK.
Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search
Relocation
Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK.
Once you have secured your role in the UK, we focus on supporting you and your family with all your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help.
Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. Take a look here: IMG Resources – Relocation & UK Life
Outside of the EEA
If you qualified as a doctor outside the EEA, then you will have to demonstrate that both your medical knowledge & skills and English Language capabilities meet the level required to practice safely in the UK. In addition, you will need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.
Here we summarise the requirements for Emergency Medicine doctors, looking at the following:
- English Language Testing
- Evidence of Knowledge & Skills - PLAB, MRCEM/FRCEM or equivalents
- Tier 2 Visas
- Full GMC Registration
English Language Testing
Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language.
You can do this by passing either of the following:
- OET – Occupational English Test
- IELTS – International English Language Testing System
Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:
IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors
OET – a guide for overseas doctors
Evidence of Knowledge & Skills in Medicine
Overseas doctors must prove to the GMC they have sufficient knowledge & skills to practice safely in the UK. This can be done through three main routes:
- PLAB
- Royal College qualification of MRCEM/ FRCEM
- GMC - recognised or equivalent qualifications
Route 1 - PLAB
The PLAB exam is a two-part exam that assesses a doctor’s ability to work safely as an SHO in the NHS, as such it does not demonstrate ability in Medicine specifically.
For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine.
That said, for some senior doctors PLAB can be an attractive option, offering a quicker route to the UK, whilst still securing competitive salaries. If taking this option, international doctors can then take up training or a more senior post once they have established themselves in the NHS.
Take a look through our comprehensive guides on PLAB:
PLAB – a guide for overseas doctors
Route 2 - Royal College Qualification of MRCEM
Attaining a Royal College qualification is a preferred path for doctors who have already chosen their field of specialism i.e. medicine. For senior Emergency Medicine doctors taking this route, they will gain access to more senior, well-paid jobs in the specialism of their choice.
The Royal College of Emergency Medicine is the Professional Body that regulates the specialism of medicine in the UK, and Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCEM/ FRCEM) is the full qualification attainable by examination.
For overseas doctors, attaining MRCEM will satisfy the knowledge & skill criteria for GMC registration and facilitate application for more senior roles in UK emergency medicine.
Take a look at our complete guide on Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine to understand more: MRCEM – a guide for overseas doctors
Route 3 - GMC Recognised or Equivalent Qualifications
Some overseas qualifications are recognised by the GMC and accepted for registration purposes. This means to say these qualifications are considered as meeting the same standards as the Royal College qualifications.
There are psychiatry qualifications from several countries around the world that are currently accepted by the GMC.
Find out if your qualification is accepted by the GMC here: Overseas accepted postgraduate qualifications
Tier 2 Visa
If you are a doctor applying from outside the EEA region you will almost certainly need to apply for a visa to work in the UK.
Applying as a doctor or nurse has never been easier and there is currently no-restriction on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) applications that a hospital can make. Furthermore, the list of specialties on the shortage occupation list is due for imminent review and expansion beyond its current list of specialties, potentially widening the scope for easier immigration processes across all specialties in healthcare.
Understand Tier 2 visas and Certificates of Sponsorship in depth by taking a look at our article: Tier 2 Visa application process & documents needed
Wondering whether you can relocate with your family? Take a look at our blog on the Tier 2 dependent visa below: Tier 2 Dependant visa - can i bring my family with me to the UK?
GMC Registration
With everything in place, you can apply for full registration with a license to practice with the GMC. Remember, for full GMC registration you must provide evidence of:
- Evidence of English language capabilities
AND
- Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (PLAB, MRCEM/ FRCEM or equivalent)
Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article here: GMC Registration for overseas doctors
Job search
We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for Non-EEA doctors in the NHS is increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms!
At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for overseas doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of jobs than is readily available online.
Our network extends to Emergency Medicine services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.
In addition, your 1-1 consultant, with a specialty knowledge of emergency medicine, will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you get the most competitive salary.
Giving you the peace of mind of agreeing your new contract, perhaps even before your GMC registration is complete.
Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search
Relocation
Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK.
Once you have secured your role in the UK, we will focus on supporting you and your family with all of your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help.
Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. Take a look here: IMG Resources – Relocation & UK Life
IMG Jobs
Search and find live emergency medicine NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor jobs, doctor salary & relocation for emergency medicine specialists
Get in Touch
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss emergency medicine doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding, CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS job & hospital locations for you.
For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
Relevant Jobs
A hospital in Yorkshire is looking for a Consultant in Emergency Medicine with an interest in trauma care and emergency medicine leadership. The Emergency Department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Emergency Medicine job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCEM are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Full GMC registration with a licence to practice and at least six months of obtaining a CCT in Emergency Medicine, CESR, or European Specialist Qualifications are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in trauma care and clinical leadership should apply.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide high-quality emergency care to patients in the ED, including trauma cases.
- Lead the clinical team and oversee the Emergency Physician in Charge (EPIC) role.
- Engage in departmental audits and participate in clinical governance and quality improvement projects.
- Provide clinical supervision and mentoring to junior doctors and trainees.
LIFE IN YORKSHIRE
The hospital is located in a picturesque region, with local towns offering both urban and rural living options. The area boasts excellent schools, transport links, and a wide range of leisure activities. Yorkshire has historical significance as a former center of the wool industry and offers rich industrial heritage alongside beautiful countryside.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:
- Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care.
An excellent health service is looking to appoint an Emergency Medicine Consultant. This is a great opportunity to further your medical career in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support, and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
The Emergency Department sees over 45,000 patients annually, with 25% of attendances being children. As a Trauma Unit and part of the Wessex Trauma Network, the department features a robust clinical governance process and an active audit program. This progressive department actively uses ultrasound in diagnostics and is developing a regional blocks program.
Health Service
Working for this health service is professionally rewarding, offering high-quality, patient-centered care. Their clinicians lead in developing and managing services, supported by strong links with UK specialists. With a generous study leave budget, doctors are encouraged to pursue further education. Exciting developments include a new general hospital and a new mental health inpatient unit. They foster strong relationships between mental health, primary, and secondary care, promoting joint learning and teaching in their modern education center.
The health service, separate from the NHS, is an integrated, taxation-funded system, free at the point of delivery, managed by the Health and Community Services Department. This is a unique opportunity to help shape an integrated care system with closer political engagement than in the UK.
Department & Team
The Emergency Department operates with dedicated consultant presence from 8 am to 10 pm Monday to Friday, and 10 am to 4 pm on weekends, supplemented by on-call service beyond these hours. A team of 24/7 middle-grade physicians supports the department, alongside a rotating roster of 15 junior doctors comprising F2s, GPVTS doctors, and Clinical Fellows.
Comprehensive specialty support is available on-site throughout the day and night, including medicine, anaesthetics, paediatrics, and obs & gynae, with senior orthopaedic and surgical specialists accessible both during regular hours and on-call. The department boasts continuous access to imaging services, including cross-sectional imaging, ensuring prompt diagnostics. Facilities include a 3-bedded resus area with a dedicated paediatric resuscitation cubicle, an 8-bedded Majors area with half of the beds in isolation, designated paediatric and minors examination rooms, and specialized facilities for eye examinations.
Continued Professional Development
The service job offers further training & accreditation within psychiatry, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interest. The post holder will have ample opportunities to develop knowledge, skills, and experience through attendance at relevant courses, conferences, and locally organized CME events. Health & Community Services supports Continuing Medical Education with time and financial support, offering study leave of 30 days in 3 years, and an annual study leave allowance.
Life in the area
Living in the area presents significant financial benefits. The flat income tax rate is notably advantageous compared to the U.K., and they provide a generous public sector pension scheme that isn\'t constrained by U.K. lifetime or annual contribution limits. The Consultant Contract closely mirrors the U.K. model but offers higher incremental levels. Incremental progression is automatic from points 1 to 17 on the pay scale based on satisfactory performance, while formal applications are necessary for points 18 to 20.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
• Experience in Emergency Medicine
EEA candidates:
• Experience in Stroke Medicine
• European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
• MRCP UK
• Experience in Stroke Medicine
An excellent opportunity has arisen for Specialty Doctors in Emergency Medicine to join an NHS Foundation Trust that is dynamic and dedicated to providing great service to their patients. The site that is ideally located near stunning blue flag beaches. The Emergency Medicine team boasts extensive experience and expertise in supporting doctors through the CESR programme. The current CESR programme includes a customized professional development plan tailored to meet the individual needs of each doctor, with available placements in Critical Care, Anaesthetics, Acute Medicine, and Paediatrics.
This is a unique opportunity for Specialty Doctors seeking to advance their careers within the NHS in the UK. Successful candidates will have the option to participate in this CESR support programme, further enhancing their professional growth. Don\'t miss this chance to explore NHS jobs that offer both career progression and an excellent quality of life. Overseas applications from experienced Specialty Doctors and Consultants are welcomed.
What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?
The NHS Foundation Trust is a district general hospital trust managing three hospitals. The Trust serves the different towns, delivering a broad range of medical services. They are performing at a good level across their services and continuously provides huge opportunities and benefits to the way they deliver patient care. The Trust focuses on delivering excellent general hospital services, serving a population of approximately 750,000 with the help of more than 9,000 staff members. The hospitals have around 1,100 beds in total, offering services including General Medicine, General Surgery, Neurology, Rheumatology, Gastroenterology, Dermatology, Gynaecology, and Paediatrics.
The Trust achieved foundation status in 2005 and, in October 2020, merged two of its hospitals to create a new organization, establishing one of their hospitals as the emergency care site and another as the planned care site. The Trust remains dedicated to continuous improvement, striving to provide high-quality, patient-centered care across all its facilities.
What is the department & team like?
The Emergency Medicine Department is a highly advanced and well-equipped unit, dedicated to providing emergency care. The department is staffed with a robust team of consultants and junior doctors, ensuring round-the-clock expertise and comprehensive patient care. The team is proficient in managing a diverse range of emergency cases, including trauma, cardiac emergencies, respiratory issues, and other urgent medical conditions. With access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment facilities, they provide immediate and effective care for all patients.
The facilities within the department include modern resuscitation bays, dedicated observation units, and specialized treatment areas for both adults and children. These state-of-the-art resources enable them to handle high patient volumes efficiently and effectively. On average, the Emergency Medicine Department manages a significant number of emergency cases each year, reflecting its critical role in the region\'s healthcare system. Their commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care is unwavering, supported by their experienced team and cutting-edge facilities.
Career Development & Opportunities Available
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD. Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
- Attractive salary and relocation package
- Training and development opportunities
- CESR support for those eligible
- Tier 2 Health and Care Visa (sponsorship for the whole family)
- Guidance regarding the CV and full interview preparation
- Assistance regarding the GMC registration, visa, accommodation and transportation by an experienced onboarding specialist
- Complete IMG Relocation service from start to finish of process
Nestled along England\'s picturesque south coast, the area offers a unique blend of urban amenities and coastal charm. Doctors enjoy proximity to both bustling city life and tranquil seaside retreats. Residents indulge in sailing adventures around harbour or stroll along its sandy beaches. The area boasts reputable schools and universities, nurturing young minds for future success. Transportation links are robust, with easy access to neighboring cities like Bournemouth and Southampton, as well as major airports. Housing options range from waterfront apartments to quaint cottages, catering to varied tastes and lifestyles. Poole epitomizes the quintessential coastal living experience.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Emergency Medicine
- Experience in Emergency Medicine
- MRCP
- MRCP
- Experience in Emergency Medicine
An outstanding opportunity for experienced Consultant in Emergency Medicine to join an NHS Trust that is committed to providing the best quality care to the people of East Sussex by attracting and recruiting passionate people who share this commitment. This Trust is one of the largest employers in the region and their members and staff are dedicated professionals whose work is varied, challenging and makes a real difference to people’s health and well-being.
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 Trust is one of the largest organisations in the country and they employ over 6,000 dedicated staff with an annual turnover of £380 million who provides service to 525,000 people that live within the area. Their services are mainly provided from two district general hospitals, both have Emergency Departments and provide care 24 hours a day. They offer a comprehensive range of surgical, medical and maternity services supported by a full range of diagnostic and therapy services.
The role of the NHS Trust is to provide the best possible healthcare service to patients, who come first in everything the organisation does. Safe patient care is the Trust's highest priority. They will provide high quality clinical services that achieve and demonstrate optimum clinical outcomes and provide an excellent care experience for patients. The employees will be valued and respected. They will be involved in decisions about the services they provide and offered the training and development that they need to fulfill their roles.
They will operate efficiently and effectively, diagnosing and treating patients in timely fashion and expediting their return to health. They will use their resources efficiently and effectively for the benefit of their patients and their care to ensure our services are clinically, operationally, and financially sustainable.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The Emergency Department is a team of consultant that focuses on being on top of taking care of their patients. The department is open for hours a day, seven days a week for those seeking treatment for an urgent problem that may be caused by an accident or an illness. In the last year, there were 130,000 visits in their department.
Urgent Treatment Centres are being in developed nationally with the aim to provide same day ‘urgent treatment’ operating in a fully integrated way with the local community. The department has a vision is to provide an urgent care stream from the front door of the Emergency Department and develop innovative interoperable ways to ensure that the patients receive the right care at the right time and in the right place.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN THE REGION?
The region has a natural beauty. Sussex has some fantastic natural features such as the Seven Sisters National Park, and many areas of outstanding natural beauty that include the medieval heathland and forests of the High Weald. It also has beaches and harbours where people can go to during their dayoffs.
Besides its natural beauty, there's a rich array of accommodation options, ranging from the five star Grand Hotel on Eastbourne seafront to quaint B&Bs set amid beautiful Sussex countryside. East Sussex offers a rich array of culture, with art galleries such as the Jerwood Gallery in Hastings and the Towner Gallery in Eastbourne and an array of theatre and entertainment venues such as the De La Warr Pavillion in Bexhill, Congress and Deveonshire Park Theatres in Eastbourne and the White Rock Theatre in Hastings.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU?
The combination of clinical practice and first-class academic connections means that medical professionals have a wide range of opportunities to develop their careers and achieve their aspirations. You will have access to leadership, teaching, educational and research opportunities for Continued Professional Develop (CPD).
If you are a new consultant you will receive mentoring and support from medical leads as well as access to a large peer group of enthusiastic and high-caliber Consultants.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification in Emergency Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- FRCEM
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
A fantastic opportunity for specialist in geriatric or elderly care medicine to settle into their first consultant post and work towards their CESR application, if that is the intention.
The hospital will consider senior consultants with no UK experience who are not on the UK specialist register for geriatric medicine.
The Geriatrics department is a small and manageable size with a 28 bedded inpatient ward and various other outlier beds.
Currently no formal geriatric outpatient services are offered with the exception of a Parkinson's / Movement clinic. The department will be looking to develop these in conjunction with skill set of a successful applicant.
The Geriatrics department comprises 3 consultants in elderly care medicine supported by 15 specialty registrars, 9 core medical trainees and FY2's and 9 FY1's working full shifts for GIM on call.
Each consultant will be offered a budget and 30 days of study and professional leave over each 3 year period to pursue their career development activities. Furthermore there is an active Postgraduate Medical Centre which acts as a focus for contract between doctors at all levels an in all disciplines.
Consultants will be encouraged to actively participate in teaching and training of juniors throughout their tenure.
Requirements of this position are:
- MRCP
- IELTS or OET
- Experience working at consultant grade in elderly care
Senior geriatric medicine specialists looking to work towards their CESR application or secure their first consultant role in the NHS are encouraged to apply