NHS Staffing – the role of overseas doctors
- August 18, 2022
The NHS is estimated as the 4th biggest employer in the world, employing more than 1.7million...
Despite the scale of the NHS labour force, it still does not have enough staff to meet demand. In this article we will explore the reasons why International Medical Graduates (IMGs) want to work in the NHS, the demand for more staff across the UK in every aspect of UK Healthcare, and some of the reasons working in the NHS can be beneficial for you.
'The United Kingdom (and the NHS) has been, and remains, a popular place to work for doctors and other members of the medical profession'
In the UK, as well as across the globe, it has been well documented that demands on health services have been increasing year-on-year since the millennium. Advances in technology and medicine, wider ranges of healthcare, and an ageing population all play their part. It can also be said that improved practices, safer staffing numbers and planning strategies have also contributed to increasing demand.
Shortfalls in staff, leading to greater demand for overseas practitioners
Over the past few decades shortfalls in NHS Staff across the UK have increased in part due to the slowing growth in training sufficient numbers of staff. When domestic supply slows, the NHS looks to International Recruitment. Current figures estimate that roughly 13 – 15% of hospital and community staff are recorded as having non-British nationality.
The NHS is one of the most efficient, most egalitarian and most comprehensive public health services in the world.
Unemployment levels in the UK are at an all-time high, yet despite this there are many areas of high jobs demand. According to the UK Bureau Visa Department, the UK is experiencing severe shortages in 3 main skill areas which are: engineering, healthcare and art & entertainment. So, for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) looking to build a long-term career, with good salaries, they need look no further than the UK and the NHS.
Strengths within NHS attract overseas doctors
The strengths of the NHS, such as training, quality and ethos, continues to attract many overseas doctors. Many choose to work in the NHS because of the attractive salaries and benefits. But the work offers much more: the chance to enhance your clinical experience as part of a team of 1.7 million NHS employees, many of whom have come to the UK from across the globe. All of whom are proud to work for the NHS, and care passionately about its growth and development.
The NHS is committed to offering learning and development opportunities for all employees. No matter where you start within the NHS, you will have access to the highest quality training and be given every chance to progress within the organisation and to develop unique skills.
The NHS doesn’t stand still, there’s always more to learn. With a progressive and forward-thinking plan, there is always new equipment, new procedures; there’s always something to keep you progressing in your career in the UK, or for your return to your home country to enhance practice.
There's a growing market for international health practitioners to work in the UK, and demand is very high. With a professional health qualification and an IMG Connect consultant you can pick a lot of the UK in which to work.
Senior NHS figures have told IMG Connect that recruitment has to be approached in line with changes to the way health and care services are delivered and in demand. That means a much more sophisticated approach to understanding where professionals will be needed, at least in the medium to long term.
With that in mind, IMG Connect offers an opportunity for some fresh thinking on the process of recruiting international doctors to UK Healthcare. A comprehensive Recruitment, Relocation and Retention service for permanent doctors only, helping to considerably reduce costs and time to hire.
NHS directors increasingly demand a significant focus on aligning values and fit and after care, in order to build a fully complimented and sustainable workforce to meet demands.
With the level of demand for healthcare continuing to rise, the need for overseas staff will continue to increase.
Put simply, the NHS is reliant on IMGs who want to start a career in a progressive, welcoming and rewarding environment.
If you are a client, we would be delighted to discuss your staffing requirements and develop a bespoke solution and hiring plan. Taking time to understand your Trust and the type of doctor that will thrive in your culture, IMG Connect looks to form successful working partnerships that continue beyond the initial placement.
If you are an IMG, we offer a personalised recruitment & relocation service to any International Medical Graduate looking to find work in the UK. IMG Connect can help you start and progress your career, with advice and guidance on every aspect of planning, finding the right job, navigating legislation and relocating. This service can be summarised into four key areas of support and guidance:
- Exams, registration and Medical Qualifications
- Job search & interview preparation
- UK Visa & Immigration
- Relocation, aftercare & ongoing career support
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Relevant Jobs
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- FRCPath or equivalent and Full GMC Registration are required.
- The salary will be competitive and dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide histopathology services for diagnostics.
- Participate in the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme.
- Collaborate in academic and educational activities.
- Contribute to digital Histopathology system development.
LIFE IN THE REGION
The position is based in a city offering a mix of urban amenities and scenic rural living options. Families will find excellent schools, easy access to transport, and a range of leisure activities. The region has a rich cultural and historical significance.
An NHS district general hospital in the North of Scotland is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Lung, Head & Neck, or Breast cancer. The oncology department comprises a team of 7 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCR (or equivalent) 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
FRCR, full GMC registration with specialist registration or within 6 months of CCT, along with broad experience in prescribing radiotherapy and SACT, are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Lung, Head & Neck, or Breast radiotherapy should apply. The salary will be between £107,144 and £142,369 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Manage a subspecialty caseload in Lung, H&N or Breast radiotherapy, delivering high-quality care and treatment planning.
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Participate in MDT meetings, clinical governance, research and teaching activities.
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Contribute to acute oncology on-call cover and peripheral clinics across the region.
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Lead or support the development of new services or innovations in clinical delivery within the department.
LIFE IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
This job is based in the Scottish Highlands, a region known for both its bustling city of Inverness and rural escapes like Beauly or Fort Augustus.
The Highlands offer excellent schools, strong transport links including rail and air connections, and year-round recreational options from hiking to arts festivals. The city also has a vibrant cultural and social scene for families and professionals alike.
Rich in heritage, the Highlands are home to some of Scotland’s most renowned history—from clan culture to castles—making this region both a scenic and significant place to live and work.
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:
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CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
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Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
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At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
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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 to your new role including:
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Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
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Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
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Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
An NHS acute hospital in the South East is looking for a Specialist Acute Physician with an interest in Same Day Emergency Care and Ambulatory Medicine. The Acute Internal Medicine department comprises a team of 13 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Acute Medicine job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCP (UK) qualifications 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
MBBS or equivalent, full GMC registration, MRCP, and a minimum of 4 years’ post-graduate NHS experience (with at least 2 years in Acute Medicine) are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in expanding SDEC and short stay services should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 - £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Provision of the Acute Internal Medicine service, including same day emergency care, inpatients on the AMU, and the Short Stay Unit
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Receiving referrals from primary care to provide clinical advice and triage for potential admissions
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Supervision of junior doctors and alternative workforce, including advice on treatment plans
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Participation in clinical education and governance activities, and supporting development of the department
LIFE IN THE SOUTH EAST
This role is based in a major coastal city in the South East, with nearby living options ranging from lively urban centres to scenic rural towns. The region offers strong transport connections, reputable schools, and a wide range of leisure pursuits including historic attractions, beaches, and outdoor activities. Known for its maritime heritage, this area has longstanding ties to British naval and defence history.
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 to 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 NHS teaching hospital in the West Midlands is looking for a Locum Consultant in Microbiology with an interest in clinical microbiology, infection control, and antimicrobial stewardship. The Microbiology department comprises a team of 5 consultant microbiologists and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Microbiology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath qualifications 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
FRCPath (or equivalent) and significant experience in microbiology and infectious diseases are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in antimicrobial stewardship and infection control should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Provide clinical microbiology advice for inpatients and outpatients, including infection control and antimicrobial therapy recommendations.
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Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings such as OPAT, diabetic foot, and spinal infection MDTs.
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Be part of a 1:7 on-call rota, providing microbiology advice out-of-hours to hospital and community services.
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Contribute to laboratory report validation, audit activities, and CPD, including teaching junior doctors and medical students.
LIFE IN STOKE
This role is based in Stoke-on-Trent. Many staff choose to live in Stoke itself for urban convenience, or in nearby towns like Stone or rural Cheshire for a quieter lifestyle. The area is well-served by excellent transport links, schools, and local amenities, with plenty of leisure activities including country parks, theatres, and restaurants. Stoke-on-Trent has a rich industrial heritage and is famously known as the heart of the UK’s pottery industry, offering cultural and historical interest alongside modern healthcare innovation.
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 to 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 NHS teaching hospital in the North of England is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with all interests considered. The oncology department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration or MRCP (UK) 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 practise and inclusion (or eligibility within 6 months) on the Specialist Register in Medical Oncology are required for this role. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
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Manage and treat patients with cancers as part of the site-specific MDTs.
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Provide on-call and acute cover for oncology inpatients and new inpatient referrals on a rotational basis (1 week out of 8).
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Attend weekly multi-disciplinary meetings.
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Hold an honorary lecturer position at a local medical school and participate in undergraduate teaching.
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Participate in clinical research as appropriate.
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Train and teach specialty trainees in medical oncology.
LIFE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND
This role is based in the North of England, a region that offers the perfect balance of urban convenience and rural charm. Residents can enjoy city living in York or find quieter settings in the nearby countryside and villages. The area boasts outstanding schools, excellent transport links, and a wide variety of cultural, sporting, and outdoor activities. With its strong ties to Britain’s industrial heritage and the beautiful countryside on its doorstep, the North of England is a popular choice for healthcare professionals relocating to the UK.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
-
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 to 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
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