A Psychiatrist's Journey to the UK - Dr Connie Chan
- January 12, 2023
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 Connie Chan, a brilliant perinatal psychiatrist who relocated to the UK from Hong Kong in 2022. Having passed the MRCPsych and English language exams, Connie received full GMC registration with license to practise. She is now working in the NHS at Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust, where she is making a fantastic impact on the service and wider community.
Tell us about yourself – what should the IMG community know about Connie Chan?
I was born and trained in Hong Kong as a psychiatrist and have been working in perinatal mental health in the last 8 years, before I moved to practice in the UK in Spring 2022. I find working in perinatal mental health rewarding and it’s something I’m passionate about, so I was lucky to be able to find a job in the same sub-specialty in the UK.
What motivated you to move to the UK?
My main priority has always been my children’s education, so quite naturally, I had considered sending them to study in the UK, where the standard of schools (both private and state) is excellent and world-class. My kids are still young, and so rather than sending them to boarding schools, I preferred to relocate with them so that I would not miss out on seeing them grow up.
Tell us about your experience of completing MRCPsych as part of your training in Hong Kong...
I completed the Royal College of Psychiatrists examinations years ago, during a time when it was the norm in Hong Kong to do both our local professional exams and Royal College exams simultaneously. However, things have changed in my home city recently, and trainees can opt to complete the local membership examination only.
How did you manage to navigate and juggle the different aspects of registration whilst working full time?
I did not face any major setbacks in my registration, and it was quite smoothly done. My GMC registration only needed restoration, but when I made the decision to restore it, it was at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, so the restoration process was delayed by the suspension of all identity checks.
How did you find a perinatal psychiatry job within the NHS?
I made IMG Connect aware of my intention to look for jobs in perinatal psychiatry and there were several openings around the country. Ruaidhri, the co-founder, helped me to line up interviews and with the preparation, and voila, I got the job.
Tell us about a day in the life of a perinatal psychiatrist in the NHS...
I am currently working in the community team of a perinatal psychiatric unit. We have multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss cases and I am amazed by the different perspectives contributed by different disciplines in the team to make discussions really meaningful, tailor-made and human-centred. I make home visits, do clinics and attend meetings, and have supervision with my line manager and supervise my junior doctors as well.
Work-life balance is something that is important to a lot of people. My previous job was more about meeting deliverables for the service pledge, which emphasised efficiency and service output, and sometimes led to staff burnout. Working in this new environment, I feel that I do have a choice.
What opportunities have become available to you through your work?
The Trust I am working in has quite a comprehensive programme for IMGs, including personal development, understanding the values of the NHS, general IMG support and advice and peer groups for CESR. It is a good way to become familiar with the system. There are also a lot of managerial training and professional updates available.
How are you settling into life in the UK?
I am living in Greater Manchester with about a 45-minute commute into work each way. I prefer living a little further from work as driving by myself can be a good time for my own mindfulness to clear my thoughts. On weekdays, things are quite busy and it takes some planning to get my kids off to school and for pickups, as well as working and cooking in the evening. At the weekend, it is really a time that I can unwind and have quality time with my children. We have so many new things to learn and to share and new places to explore together.
What have you enjoyed most about living in Greater Manchester?
There is the airport in Manchester which brings a lot of vibrancy to the city and the areas around it. The atmosphere of traveling and the mood for holidays is infectious. It makes friends stopping by for a visit whenever they come to visit the UK much easier. In fact, there are quite a lot of Hong Kong communities in the area, so it made my initial move feel less isolated and the transition period easier.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in moving to the UK?
Living in a bigger place has been both a blessing and a curse. Manchester is the 2nd largest city in the UK, and living nearby allows me to have easy accessibility to many different things. However the vast area means to get from one place to another, I rely heavily on driving, and there is more to consider with regard to my children’s care and school runs. For me, driving is a challenge in winter as it gets dark earlier, and the rain makes the motorway quite daunting.
What have you missed about Hong Kong the most?
Definitely Hong Kong street food! There are just so many food delicacies there and they are a part of my cultural heritage that I am really proud of.
In hindsight, is there anything you would’ve done differently?
Honestly, I would do most things the same way. I would still choose to work with IMG Connect. But as a parent, I would try to plan my relocation to coincide with the beginning of the academic year for school admissions, so that it would be easier to find schools for the kids, as in-year transfers are more difficult.
What has been your experience working with IMG Connect?
My experience working with IMG Connect has been nothing short of amazing. I have been well taken care of on every level from job hunting, interview preparation, negotiations with human resources, to the choice of home, location, phone cards, school information, interesting places to visits, etc. My queries and my worries were always addressed and attended to, and that was massive help for someone like me with no prior connections in the UK.
Ruaidhri was really my guiding star in getting me through tricky situations, and it is a testament to how helpful and easily approachable everyone at IMG Connect is, from top to bottom.
Do you have any tips or advice for international doctors who want to move to the UK?
It is certainly a huge decision to make to relocate to the UK to work as a doctor. It is easier if one has a clear goal and works toward it step-by-step. Most importantly, I find it is the psychological preparedness to adapt to a new culture and work model that matters. It is never too late to make a new start.
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 for IMGs to secure rewarding jobs, progress within their fields and explore adjacent opportunities such as CESR, writing publications, teaching opportunities 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 Family.
For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:
Relevant Jobs
An excellent job opportunity for an experienced Consultant Adult Inpatient Psychiatrist to join a private healthcare organisation near to Birmingham. This role is based within a well-established inpatient setting, offering a great chance to advance your medical career and earn a higher salary compared to the NHS. This job provides CESR Portfolio Pathway support, welcoming international applications from IMGs.
Working in Private Healthcare
This private organisation is recognized for its commitment to delivering exceptional mental health services. They are known for its multidisciplinary approach, working collaboratively to provide holistic, patient-centric care. Specializing in general adult psychiatry, they focus on promoting recovery and improving the quality of life for its patients. The team is dedicated to ongoing innovation and quality improvement, ensuring that the highest standards of care are consistently met. This job offers a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic team that values professional development and excellence in clinical practice.
The Psychiatry Department & Team
The Psychiatry Department has a 10-bedded ward for psychiartric intensive care unit for females of working age, and another 9-bedded ward for acute service which provides treatment for females of working age. The department is comprised of a multidisciplinary team dedicated to providing comprehensive inpatient care for adults with severe mental health conditions. The team includes consultants, junior doctors, psychologists, nurses, and allied health professionals, all working together to deliver evidence-based treatments. The department is committed to fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, where every team member plays a vital role in patient care.
The approach emphasizes continuous improvement and innovation, with regular team meetings and clinical governance sessions to ensure the highest quality of care.
Continued Professional Development:
This job offers further training & accreditation within general adult psychiatry, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. They support its medical staff in pursuing their professional goals, providing access to a wide range of CPD opportunities, including in-house training programs and supervision. This commitment to professional development ensures that consultants are well-equipped to advance in their careers while delivering the highest standard of care to their patients.
Location
This private healthcare organisation is located in the midlands not fare from Birmingham. The area boasts a low cost of living, making it an attractive option for those relocating. It is a safe and family-friendly area with excellent schools, a rich cultural scene, and plenty of recreational activities. The region is known for its natural beauty, with easy access to national parks and outdoor pursuits. Additionally, it has excellent transport links, making it easy to connect with other parts of the UK.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in General Adult Psychiatry
- CCT (Preferred)
- Section 12
- AC Status (Preferred)
EEA candidates:
- Experience in General Adult Psychiatry
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCPsych
- Experience in General Adult Psychiatry
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced psychiatrist to join this NHS Trust as a Specialist Doctor working in a community psychiatry setting in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
The NHS Trust
The NHS Foundation Trust is a renowned provider of integrated healthcare services, covering a broad spectrum of care. The Trust is committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care and has received accolades for its innovative approaches and excellent clinical outcomes. As part of the NHS, the Trust ensures comprehensive mental health services, physical health care, and specialist services to the community. Their robust partnership with local authorities and healthcare providers enhances their service delivery, making it an exceptional place for medical professionals to grow and make a significant impact.
The Department & Team
The Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) team is a forward-thinking, dynamic department. The team provides community-based services to young people up to 18 years old. The department includes a mix of professionals, such as a substantive consultant, trainees, non-medical prescribers, and a well-resourced multidisciplinary team (MDT). The service boasts various specialized programs like the Mental Health in Schools teams, CAMHS Psychiatry Liaison, and Enhanced Support services. Pebble Lodge, the CAMHS inpatient unit, holds an outstanding rating from the Care Quality Commission, reflecting the high standards of care provided.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The NHS Foundation Trust supports continuous professional development with structured training programs, opportunities for research, and participation in innovative projects, ensuring doctors can advance their careers and contribute to service development.
Location
The area is a vibrant coastal town known for its stunning beaches, beautiful parks, and a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The area offers a high quality of life with excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and affordable living costs. With easy access to natural areas of beauty and efficient transport connections to major cities, it is an ideal location for international doctors and their families seeking a balanced lifestyle in the UK.
??????Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Child & Adolescent Psychistry
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Child & Adolescent Psychistry
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCPsych
- Experience in Child & Adolescent Psychistry
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant Psychiatrist to join this NHS Trust in the West of England as a Consultant working in an established acute psychiatric ward 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 Community Health, Mental Health, Social Care, and specialist Learning Disability services. Formed from the merger of two previous trusts, it has been operational since October 1, 2019, and received a ‘Good’ rating from the CQC in 2022. This role offers a unique opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to enhancing patient outcomes.
The General Adult Psychiatry Department & Team
The General Adult Psychiatry department includes acute wards, a PICU, a low-secure unit, and a Hospital-Based Place of Safety. The Consultant Psychiatrist will lead a multidisciplinary team, including a Specialty Doctor, Foundation Doctor, Core Trainee, and nursing staff. Responsibilities include direct patient care, consultation, and supervision of junior doctors, ensuring comprehensive management plans for inpatient treatment and community reintegration. The department is recognized for its high standards, receiving accolades and accreditations from the Royal College of Psychiatrists and the Healthcare Commission.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within General Adult Psychiatry, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interest. Opportunities for teaching, research, clinical governance, and quality improvement projects are integral to the role. The Trust supports continuous professional development with dedicated training for educational and clinical supervision, participation in job planning reviews, and providing resources like a full-time medical secretary, dedicated office space, and modern IT facilities.
Location
This region in the West of England offers an excellent quality of life for international doctors and their families. The cost of living is relatively affordable, and the area boasts a variety of good schools, making it an ideal location for families. The region is rich in history and culture, with numerous attractions, including historic landmarks, museums, and festivals. It is surrounded by beautiful natural areas, perfect for outdoor activities. With excellent transport links, including proximity to major motorways and direct train lines to major cities, this region is well-connected, offering the best of both urban and rural living in the UK.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- CCT or Specialist Registration (preferred)
- Experience in General Adult Inpatient Psychiatry
- S12
- AC (preferred)
EEA candidates:
- Experience in General Adult Inpatient Psychiatry
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCPsych (preferred)
- Specialist/Consultant Experience in General Adult Inpatient Psychiatry
We are looking to recruit a Consultant Psychiatrist to a Crisis & Assessment Team role in the Channel Islands, a UK territory sitting off the coast of France and just a 1 hour flight from London. This job presents a great opportunity to advance your medical career in the UK.
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 on the island. Key benefits of working there are higher salaries than the NHS, lower taxes and sunnier weather.
Consultant Pay range - £110,257 to £164,372
Single rate of tax - 20%.
The Department & Team
The Crisis and Assessment Team (CAT) serves as the primary gateway to adult and older people\'s mental health services, conducting assessments in the community and emergency settings, alongside medical reviews. They collaborate closely with law enforcement, responding to Adult Protection Notices and coordinating mental health law assessments. This role within the CAT focuses on streamlining referrals, providing short-term crisis interventions, and ensuring individuals receive appropriate ongoing care. You\'ll engage with both working-age adults and older adults, with responsibilities extending to police referrals and mental health law assessments during standard working hours, with on-call commitments.
Continued Professional Development
Professional development is integral to their ethos, offering CESR Portfolio Pathway support, access to specialty training, and opportunities for sub-specialist development. They prioritize ongoing learning through conferences, local CME events, and a generous study leave allowance.
Life in the area
Living in this location offers significant financial benefits. The flat income tax rate of 20% is notably advantageous compared to the UK, and a generous public sector pension scheme is provided, not constrained by UK lifetime or annual contribution limits. The consultant contract closely mirrors the UK model but offers higher incremental levels starting at £110,257 and with a top basic salary of £164,372.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in General Adult Psychiatry
- Specialist Registration or locum consultant experience
EEA candidates:
- Experience in General Adult Psychiatry
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCPsych
- Experience in General Adult Psychiatry
We are looking to recruit a Consultant Psychiatrist to an Old Age role in the Channel Islands, a UK territory sitting off the coast of France and just a 1 hour flight from London. This job presents a great opportunity to advance your medical career in the UK.
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 on the island. Key benefits of working there are higher salaries than the NHS, lower taxes and sunnier weather.
Consultant Pay range - £110,257 to £164,372
Single rate of tax - 20%.
What is the health & community service like?
Working in this location is professionally rewarding, offering high-quality, patient-centered care. 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. The service fosters strong relationships between mental health, primary, and secondary care, promoting joint learning and teaching in a modern education center.
What is the department & team like?
The inpatient services are currently undergoing extensive refurbishment, including two wards for older adults. One ward offers 14 assessment beds for individuals over 65 experiencing functional mental health issues, with some flexibility for those under 65. The other ward provides 10 assessment beds for patients with dementia. Following the refurbishment, the latter ward will feature 8 acute assessment beds and 8 transitional/step-down beds for those with dementia or enduring mental health problems who cannot be supported in local nursing or residential homes.
The Older Adults Community Mental Health Team (OACMHT) manages a caseload of about 300 patients, including new referrals triaged by the Crisis and Assessment team, providing both short-term treatment and long-term care coordination. The role involves providing medical support to the OACMHT alongside two other consultants and a staff grade doctor.
The post holder will join an established team, comprising 2 WTE older adult consultants, 1.0 WTE Associate Specialist (Memory Assessment Service), 2.0 WTE staff grades (inpatient and community), and 1.0 WTE F1 doctor (inpatients and community). Dedicated administrative support includes a 0.5 WTE medical secretary and ward and team secretarial support.
Continued Professional Development
This position offers further training and accreditation within psychiatry, including CESR Portfolio Pathway support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The post holder will have ample opportunities to develop knowledge, skills, and experience through attendance at relevant courses, conferences, and locally organized CME events. The organization supports Continuing Medical Education with time and financial support, offering study leave of 30 days in 3 years and an annual study leave allowance. Regular case discussions, teaching sessions, and MDT supervision ensure ongoing professional development, meeting the Royal College of Psychiatrists\' CPD requirements.
Living in the Area
Living in this location offers significant financial benefits. The flat income tax rate of 20% is notably advantageous compared to the UK, and a generous public sector pension scheme is provided, not constrained by UK lifetime or annual contribution limits. The consultant contract closely mirrors the UK model but offers higher incremental levels starting at £110,257 and with a top basic salary of £164,372.
Am I eligible for this role?Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Old Age Psychiatry
- Specialist Registration or locum Consultant Experience
- Experience in Old Age Psychiatry
- European Specialist Qualification
- MRCPsych
- Consultant experience in Old Age Psychiatry