Working with IMG Connect – Dr Rehan Qureshi's Journey to the UK
- November 05, 2021
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.
A specialty doctor’s journey to the UK
When I was first contacted by Marcus at IMG Connect about an NHS general medicine specialty doctor job opportunity at Scarborough General Hospital, I was a little nervous about where to start, and what lay ahead. We were moving from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, which is a very lively city, and I was going to quit my permanent job to relocate to the UK. I have always been keen to work for the NHS, but I wasn’t sure what it’d be like to start my first NHS job in a small coastal town. What would the hospital be like? How would I be treated? Would it be wet and dark like you hear about online? Would the hospital be supportive in my career progression, or would I be simply thrown into the wards to struggle? As an ethnic Muslim minority, would we struggle to find Asian, vegetarian and Halal foods and mosques? All these questions were going through my mind, and after working through these together with Marcus and the team at IMG Connect, and with only a few more fears remaining, I decided to take up the challenge and proceed.
"Ruaidhri put in so much effort to turn this impossible task into reality for me."
During my recruitment process, the biggest challenge was getting my mother’s visa. This was absolutely crucial for me as my mother has always lived with us and is such an important member of our household. We have also been her primary carers. Ruaidhri at IMG Connect put in so much effort to turn this impossible task into reality for me. During the process, it was a real team effort from IMG, and I’m also thankful to the MP for Scarborough and Whitby who responded to Ruaidhri’s request and supported our efforts in this matter. Needless to say, my mother is now very happy and settled into life in Scarborough!
The hospital was also very supportive and did not push me to start by any given date. They were very accommodating and gave me ample time to sort out my relocation process. While some of the other international doctors I knew were struggling to travel before the deadlines set by their NHS trusts, I never felt this pressure. I was supported throughout, knew where to turn for answers and ultimately it was such a big relief that my mother was able to come with us.
When we arrived at London Heathrow Airport, the UK was in a lockdown due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases. We had to quarantine on our arrival, and during this time, we were very well taken care of. Our groceries were paid for, and Ruaidhri checked in with us often to see how we were and if we ever needed anything. All my queries were promptly answered by Ruaidhri and the hospital’s recruitment team.
The very next working day after our arrival in the UK, I received an email from the medical recruitment team at Scarborough General Hospital, and the process for opening my bank account was promptly initiated. I know a number of people who have also struggled with opening their first bank account in the UK, however mine was just set up for me by the recruitment team, who put me in touch with the bank representative. All I had to do was visit the branch for 15 minutes for an ID check once our quarantine had finished and everything was set up!
At work, I found everybody to be very helpful. I received a tremendous amount of help as I struggled to get used to the new system. Whenever I got stuck somewhere, there was always someone to offer a helping hand by my side.
Initially we struggled with accommodation - finding suitable housing in Scarborough was challenging, especially when we had no previous tenancy history in the UK. However, with some help we were able to get our first accommodation which was a lovely fully furnished apartment. We enjoyed our stay there for a month before moving to a long-term let property.
There are two types of institutions, I believe: those that hire people, use them and lose them, and those that hire people, explore their interests and goals, help them progress in their careers as per their interests and preferences, and turn them into effective and happy members of staff. Scarborough Hospital is definitely the latter. Very soon after I started, my consultant sat with me and discussed my goals and personal development plan. I had always been interested in teaching, so he presented me with a number of teaching opportunities in the area. I received great support from him in my career development and with his support, I was appointed an Honorary Senior Lecturer at Hull York Medical School within only 2 months of my joining. Not only this, but he assured me of his full support in my career progression, which is very encouraging for me. When I meet other IMG doctors in the hospital, the thing that is quite noticeable among them is a great deal of professional satisfaction, no matter what grade they are working at.
Scarborough Hospital has a very friendly, multicultural environment and people work together with mutual respect and support for one another. Scarborough Hospital implements and fully supports the SAS charter of NHS and provides every possible opportunity to SAS doctors for their career progression and growth.
As a town, Scarborough is a lovely place to live in. It’s beautiful, peaceful, lively and even at night, the streets are very well lit, and the town is not dark or dead at all. It has all the amenities to cater for a variety of ethnic backgrounds, and we faced NO difficulty whatsoever at finding some Asian, vegetarian and Halal food to eat. We also love Scarborough’s local fish ‘n’ chips!
Scarborough has plenty of entertainment options for children. A forest on one side, seacoast on the other. Boating, hiking, cycling, parks, children’s train ride, the sea life aquarium, and castles with so much more to explore.
The town also has an Islamic centre where prayers are regularly offered. At the hospital, there are separate prayer rooms for both males and females, as well as a Chapel where Friday prayers are offered. I was very impressed when I first saw the Chapel being offered for prayers, which is a great gesture of inter-faith harmony at the hospital.
"I am immensely thankful to Marcus and Ruaidhri"
I am glad that I made the decision to come to Scarborough. It is a wonderful place to live, and people are genuinely nice and welcoming. Scarborough General Hospital is an excellent place to work. We got settled here very quickly and we have fallen in love with this place. My family and I are enjoy living here and have started to consider Scarborough our new home.
I am immensely thankful to Marcus and Ruaidhri at IMG connect and everyone else who played a role in my recruitment, relocation, and induction processes. I really appreciate all their efforts to make the entire process as swift and smooth as possible for us – they gave me the confidence to move to the UK with my family to work as a general medicine specialty doctor in the NHS.
Moving to live and work in the UK is a big decision to make but can be massively rewarding in many ways. International doctors have the chance to find a new home and the NHS presents an incredible opportunity to secure rewarding jobs, progress within their field and explore adjacent opportunities such as CESR (for non-EEA doctors), writing publications and research. Whatever route an overseas doctor may take on their journey to the UK, IMG Connect is here to support them through every step and welcome them to the IMG Connect family.
Relevant Jobs
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