As an overseas doctor looking to work in the UK, it is essential to understand the salary that comes along with your NHS job and how this can be different from one country in the UK to another.   Whilst the NHS has guides that are used to fairly and uniformly determine consultant pay, these do differ across the UK.   Basic Pay  Consultants in England and the other home countries each have their own consultant contracts in place. These are based on a full-time work commitment of 10 programmed activities (PAs) per week, each having a time-tabled value of four hours.   The basic pay thresholds in England and their equivalents in the rest of the home countries are shown below:  England  Scotland Wales Northern Ireland England  Consultants currently earn a basic rate of between £105,504 and £139,882 in England.  Threshold  Years completed as a consultant  Basic Salary  1  0  £105,504 2  1  £105,504  3  2  £105,504 4  3  £111,714           5  4        £114,894  5  6  7  8        6  9        £126,018  10  11  12  13        7  14        £139,882   15  16  17  18  8  19+  £139,882   The most recent full pay circular for England can be found here.  The National Clinical Impact Award (NCIA) scheme aims to reward consultants who contribute most to the delivery of safe and high-quality care and the improvement of NHS services. You can apply for a new award after you have completed a full year in an eligible role.  Scotland  Consultants currently earn a basic rate of between £96,963 and £128,841 in Scotland.  Threshold  Years completed as a consultant  Basic Salary  1  1 (starting salary)  £96,963  2  2  £99,011  3  3  £101,957  4  4  £104,906        5  5        £107,846  6  7  8  9        6  10        £114,846  11  12  13  14        7  15        £121,846  16  17  18  19  8  20+  £128,841  The most recent full pay circular for Scotland can be found here.  All consultants who have reached point five of the pay scale are eligible for consideration for discretionary points, except for distinction award holders. Consultants granted discretionary points are not normally considered again for two years, although this may vary.  Wales  Consultants currently earn a basic rate of between £100,000 and £146,000 in Wales.  Threshold  Years completed as a consultant  Basic Salary  1 0 (starting salary)  £100,000 2 1 £105,000  3 2 £110,000  4 3 £115,000  5 4 £123,000 6 5 £130,000  7 6 £138,000  8 7 £146,000    The most recent full pay circular for Wales can be found here.    Please note that the pay scale above is for substantive or permanent doctors in Wales.  There is a fixed pay point of £105,401 for locum consultants, which will apply regardless of years of consultant experience.  Commitment awards are available to all consultants after three years’ service at the top of the consultant pay scale, who demonstrate their commitment through satisfactory job plan reviews. They are then eligible at three-yearly intervals, until they have achieved eight award levels.  Northern Ireland  Consultants currently earn a basic rate of between £88,799 and £119,723 in Northern Ireland.  Threshold  Years completed as a consultant  Basic Salary  1  1 (starting salary)  £88,799  2  2  £91,581  3  3  £94,362  4  4  £97,141        5  5        £99,913  6  7  8  9        6  10        £106,520  11  12  13  14  7  15  £113,124  8  16+  £119,723  The most recent full pay circular for Northern Ireland can be found here.  When would I see an increase in my pay?  We are confirming when exactly SAS doctors would see the increase to their pay, but it has been agreed that the uplifts will be backdated to April 2024. Job Planning and Programmed Activities  As part of your contract, your job plan will be created in partnership with your new NHS employer. This is an annual agreement that sets out your duties, responsibilities and objectives for the length of your contract.  There are four basic categories of contractual work which will be included in your job plan: direct clinical care (DCC), supporting professional activities (SPAs), additional responsibilities and external duties.  There are ways that consultants will be able to earn more than the basic rates above and these can include additional rotas and PAs. This will also be discussed in the creation of your job plan.  For more information on NHS doctor benefits and pay arrangements in the UK, take a look at our IMG Resources library.   

Are you an international doctor considering a career in the NHS? Understanding what your NHS consultant salary will look like as monthly take-home pay is crucial for planning your new life in the UK. To help you navigate this important aspect, we've compiled detailed examples that break down what you can realistically expect to take home each month. These examples will provide you with a clearer picture of your financial situation, allowing you to plan effectively for your future job working as a consultant doctor working in the NHS England. How Much Will I Take Home? In the UK, your take-home pay is the amount deposited into your bank account after all mandatory deductions are subtracted from your annual salary. These deductions typically include Income Tax, National Insurance contributions, and NHS pension payments. It's important to understand that our calculations are intended as a general guide. We've based our estimates on the gross salary at each pay threshold, assuming no additional income streams. Your actual take-home pay may differ due to various factors, such as additional responsibilities, extra hours worked, supplementary income, your final tax bracket, pension decisions, and any tax-deductible expenses you may claim. By offering these insights, we aim to help you better navigate your financial planning as you embark on a rewarding career in the NHS and build a new life in the UK. Take-Home Pay Expectations in England This is the new 23/24 salary and take-home pay structure following the agreed recent deal.  The pay elements of the new agreement will be applied in the coming months and backdated to 1 March 2024.  Threshold Annual gross salary* Estimated annual take-home pay** Estimated monthly take-home pay** 1 £105,504 £70,649 £5,887 2 £111,714 £73,009 £6,084 3 £114,894  £74,217 £6,185 4 £126,018  £78,576 £6,548 5 £139,882  £85,924 £7,160 *Before tax and pension **Based on standard salary and not inclusive of additional payments for extra hours worked or pension deductions For a comprehensive overview of pay and salary conditions across all grades in the UK, explore our blogs series on NHS career structure and pay. Visit our IMG Resources library to find detailed information tailored to international doctors. 

What does the NHS Consultant pay scale increase in England mean for you?  Doctors play an integral part in delivering high quality patient care in the NHS and as such, they are rewarded with competitive pay rates and benefits. NHS pay scales can be confusing, particularly for overseas doctors. Here we hope to provide some clarity to help you understand the NHS grades and how they fit on the various NHS pay scales. Now, let's take a closer look at the updated consultant pay rates. The latest pay circular released by NHS Employers provides detailed information on the revised salary structure. Remember, use the below as a salary guide for service-level posts in England. It is worthwhile checking with your IMG Consultant the best pay opportunities for you, it is highly conceivable that you can earn more than the pay scales below depending on experience and demand.    The pay elements of the new deal will be applied in the coming months and backdated to the 1st of March 2024. Threshold Years completed as a consultant Basic Salary (£)  23/24 deal  Period of eligibility for next threshold Pay scale code 1 0 105,504  1 year YC72 Point 00 2 1 105,504  1 year YC72 Point 01 3 2 105,504  1 year YC72 Point 02 4 3 111,714   1 year YC72 Point 03 5 4 114,894  5 years YC72 Point 04   5 114,894  4 years YC72 Point 05   6 114,894  3 years YC72 Point 06   7 114,894  2 years YC72 Point 07   8 126,018  1 year YC72 Point 08 6 9 126,018  5 years YC72 Point 09   10 126,018  4 years YC72 Point 10   11 126,018  3 years YC72 Point 11   12 126,018   2 years YC72 Point 12   13 126,018  1 year YC72 Point 13 7 14 139,882 5 years YC72 Point 14   15 139,882 4 years YC72 Point 15   16 139,882 3 years YC72 Point 16   17 139,882 2 years YC72 Point 17   18 139,882 1 year YC72 Point 18 8 19 139,882 - YC72 Point 19   These updated figures reflect an increase across various experience levels, underscoring the NHS's commitment to fair compensation for its dedicated workforce.  These changes are particularly encouraging for overseas doctors considering a career in the UK. The improved pay rates, coupled with the renowned quality of healthcare in the NHS, present an enticing opportunity for medical professionals seeking growth and fulfilment in their careers. Download the latest NHS pay circular for detailed information  When would I see an increase in my pay?  We are confirming when exactly SAS doctors would see the increase to their pay, but it has been agreed that the uplifts will be backdated to April 2024. Additional pay, benefits, pensions and terms & conditions Current national salary scales for medical and dental staff are published in pay and conditions circulars on the NHS Employers website.  You may be eligible for additional pay on top of your basic salary if you work above the standard 10 PAs, work on call & weekends, or take on extra responsibilities. All doctors are eligible for NHS pensions and benefits. 

For international doctors looking to work in the UK, it is important to understand the salary you will be offered with your NHS job and how this can be different depending on the country you are working in within the UK.   The NHS follow pay guidelines that are used to fairly and uniformly determine consultant pay, however, these do differ across countries in the UK.   What is an SAS doctor? SAS stands for Staff grade, Associate Specialist, and Specialty Doctor. They will have at least four years of full-time postgraduate training, two of which have been in their relevant specialty.  They are experienced and senior doctors in fixed term or permanent posts (outside a training pathway).  Many SAS doctors have made a positive choice to step into a SAS position from a traditional consultant training pathway. This could be for reasons such as geographical stability or wanting to familiarise themselves with the NHS system before working up to a consultant position.  SAS doctors maintain their skills through the CPD system and there are routes, through gaining CESR (Specialist Registration) or applying for a training post, for SAS doctors to become consultants if they wish to.  Basic Pay Specialist Grades and Specialty Doctors in England and the other home countries have their own contracts in place for senior doctors. These contracts are based on a full-time work commitment of 10 programmed activities (PAs) per week, each having a time-tabled value of four hours.   The basic pay thresholds in the UK are shown below:  England Scotland Wales Northern Ireland England SAS doctors currently earn a basic rate of between £59,175 and £95,400  as Specialty Doctors and from £96,990 to £107,155 as Specialist Grade doctors in England.  Specialty Doctor  Years of experience  Basic Salary  0 (min)  £59,175 1  2  3  £68,174  4  5  6  £75,998  7  8  9  £84,121  10  11  12  £95,400 13  14  15  16  17    Associate Specialist / Specialist Grade  Years of experience  Basic Salary  0 (min)  £96,990  1  2  3  £100,784  4  5  6  £107,155 The most recent full pay circular for England can be found here.  Scotland SAS doctors currently earn a basic rate of between £47,905 and £89,329 as Specialty Doctors and from £67,163 to £109,259 as Associate Specialists in Scotland. Specialty Doctor  Years of experience  Basic Salary  0 (min)  £47,905   1  £52,001   2  £57,325   3  £60,179  4  £64,291  Threshold 1  5  £68,387  6  7  £72,574  8  9  £76,764  10  Threshold 2  11  £80,953   12  13  14  £85,141  15  16  17  £89,329     Associate Specialist  Years of experience  Basic Salary  0 (min)  £67,163   1  £72,562 2  £77,959   3  £85,088   4  £91,265  Threshold 1  5  £93,829   6  7  £97,174   8  9  £99,513  10  Threshold 2  11  £102,762   12  13  14  £106,009   15  16  17  £109,259  The most recent full pay circular for Scotland can be found here.  Wales SAS doctors currently earn a basic rate of between £56,346 and £90,000 as Specialty Doctors and from £91,500 to £101,089 as Specialists in Wales. Specialty Doctor  Years of experience  Basic Salary  1  £56,346 2  3  4  £64,915 5  6  7  £72,366 8  9  10  £80,099  11  12  13  £90,000 14  15  16  17  18    Specialist  Years of experience  Basic Salary  1  £91,500 2  3  4  £95,079 5  6  7  £101,089 The most recent full pay circular for Wales can be found here.  Northern Ireland SAS doctors currently earn a basic rate of between £52,530 and £82,400 as Specialty Doctors and from £83,945 to £95,275 as Associate Specialists in Northern Ireland. Specialty Doctor Years of experience  Basic Salary  Pay Point 0   £51,000   1   1 2 3   £60,519   2 4 5 6   £67,465  3 7 8 9   £74,675 4 10 11 12   £82,400 5 - top 13 14 15 16 17   Specialist Doctor Years of experience  Basic Salary  Pay Point 1   £83,945   1   2 3 4   £89,610   2 5 6 7 £95,275  3 (top)   The most recent full pay circular for Northern Ireland can be found here.  Job Planning and Programmed Activities As part of your contract, your job plan will be created in partnership with your new NHS employer. This is an annual agreement that sets out your duties, responsibilities and objectives for the length of your contract.  There are four basic categories of contractual work which will be included in your job plan: direct clinical care (DCC), supporting professional activities (SPAs), additional responsibilities and external duties.  There are ways that consultants will be able to earn more than the basic rates above and these can include additional rotas and PAs. This will also be discussed in the creation of your job plan. 

New Pay Deal for SAS Doctors Accepted The BMA’s SAS UK Committee has accepted the Government’s latest pay offer for England, following a 79% approval in a referendum. Key Pay Increases  What do you need to know? For SAS doctors on 2021 contracts: Annual increase of 9.5% to 19.4%. For SAS doctors on 2008 contracts: £1,400 uplift plus 6% increase for 2023/24. Go to our SAS Doctors’ Pay across the NHS blog to view the recent salary changes.   Career Progression and Contract Improvements The offer also includes proposals to enhance career progression and improve contracts for locally employed doctors, ensuring better working conditions and opportunities for advancement. While this deal marks progress, the BMA continues to push for further improvements, focusing on pay restoration and career advancement for SAS doctors.  Stay tuned for more updates, as we continue to keep you in the loop about the latest updates in the UK healthcare sector. For more information and updates, keep an eye on our website and social media channels.  When would I see an increase in my pay?  We are confirming when exactly SAS doctors would see the increase to their pay, but it has been agreed that the uplifts will be backdated to April 2024. Additional infomation Sources Read the full article about the SAS doctors in England accepted pay offer Getting started  NHS Trusts can interpret the NHS consultant pay scales above and an international doctor’s experience in different ways, so use this blog as a guideline for understanding what you may be eligible for when coming to work in the NHS.  Your IMG Consultant is happy to assist with any negotiations related to your job plan to ensure your experience is taken into account.  For more information on NHS doctor benefits and pay arrangements in the UK, take a look at our IMG Resources library.              

Revised Offer for SAS Doctors in England   IMG's aspiring to work in the UK NHS... We've got some thrilling news to share with you. The British Medical Association (BMA) is poised to unveil a revised and final offer to SAS (Specialty and Associate Specialist) doctors in England. This update marks a significant step forward in addressing the needs and concerns of SAS doctors, ensuring fair compensation and improved working conditions. The proposed offer, set to be presented by the BMA, holds the promise of enhancing the professional experience for SAS doctors across England. As a company dedicated to assisting doctors in securing rewarding careers in the NHS, we understand the importance of staying informed about these developments. We're committed to keeping you updated on any changes that could impact your journey to becoming a part of the UK healthcare system. Stay tuned for more details on the revised offer for SAS doctors, as we continue to keep you in the loop about the latest updates in the UK healthcare sector. Exciting opportunities await those looking to embark on a fulfilling medical career in the NHS, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Next steps The BMA will put this offer to its members with voting to take place between 31 May to 14 June. Strike action will continue to be paused during this time. Further information on full aspects of the deal will be made available in due course. For more information and updates, keep an eye on our website and social media channels.    Additional infomation Sources Read the full article about the revised offer for SAS doctors in England Getting started  NHS Trusts can interpret the NHS consultant pay scales above and an international doctor’s experience in different ways, so use this blog as a guideline for understanding what you may be eligible for when coming to work in the NHS.  Your IMG Consultant is happy to assist with any negotiations related to your job plan to ensure your experience is taken into account.  For more information on NHS doctor benefits and pay arrangements in the UK, take a look at our IMG Resources library.                

Navigating maternity pay can be a complex process, especially within the NHS. It's crucial to understand the eligibility criteria and the benefits you're entitled to under the NHS maternity pay scheme. Here's a comprehensive breakdown to help you navigate through this important aspect of maternity leave. Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for NHS maternity pay, you need to meet the following criteria: 1. Continuous Employment: You must have completed 12 months of continuous employment with the NHS. This period doesn't necessarily have to be with the same employer but should have no breaks exceeding three months. 2. Timing: By the time you reach 11 weeks before your expected week of childbirth, you should meet the continuous employment requirement and comply with the NHS notice requirements. Understanding NHS Maternity Pay Structure: Once you meet the eligibility criteria, you become entitled to a structured maternity pay scheme. Here's how it works: 1. Full Pay (8 Weeks): You'll receive eight weeks of full pay, which is subject to deduction for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) and Maternity Allowances. 2. Half-Pay (18 Weeks): Following the full pay period, you'll receive 18 weeks of half-pay, in addition to SMP and Maternity Allowances. 3. SMP or Maternity Allowance (13 Weeks): The final phase of maternity pay involves 13 weeks of receiving either SMP or Maternity Allowance. Maternity Allowance is paid at a fixed rate, which was £156.66 per week (April 2022 – April 2023) or 90% of your average earnings if lower. Notification Requirements: It's essential to adhere to the notification requirements set by the NHS. You must notify your employer at least 15 weeks before your due date. However, as a good practice, most individuals tend to inform their employers sooner, especially considering visible signs of pregnancy by that stage. Final Thoughts: Understanding the intricacies of NHS maternity pay is vital for expecting parents working within the NHS. By meeting the eligibility criteria and adhering to the notification requirements, you can ensure a smooth transition into maternity leave while availing of the benefits provided under the NHS maternity pay scheme. In conclusion, navigating maternity pay within the NHS involves understanding eligibility criteria, the structure of maternity pay, and notification requirements. By being informed, expectant parents can make the most out of the benefits provided by their employer, ensuring a seamless transition into parenthood.   Reference - https://www.rcn.org.uk/Get-Help/RCN-advice/having-a-family#:~:text=It%20is%20likely%20you%20are,13%20weeks%20SMP   IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor's salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:                  

Regardless of what stage you are at in your medical career, a doctor's CV is the first opportunity you have to make the first impression you want to an NHS employer and secure your preferred job in the NHS.  When you consider that the average CV gets 10-15 seconds of attention it is clear how important it is to get your CV right and make it stand out. Follow our Top 14 Tips and be sure to give yourself the best opportunity of landing the interviews you want to. Your CV tells the story of you and your career and at a glance and it should be clear why you are the best person for the role you are applying for. Request our helpful CV template for GMC applications here.  14 general tips for writing a doctor CV:  1. Review and update.  By taking the time to regularly review and update your CV, it allows you to create a standard format that you can adapt for each position that you apply for, giving you the best chance at landing the interview you really want. 2. Keep up to date.  Modern medical CVs are reflective of the changing face of the profession. Keep up to date.  3. Keep it traditional.  If it works, don’t fix it. Using our template, follow the GMC guidelines on the layout and content of your CV.  If you are applying for a training programme, check the GMC requirements for example, applications for Specialist registration require a particular format. 4. Don’t write war and peace.  There is no prescribed length of a medical CV, but if you follow standard layouts, order by relevance and write succinctly, a standard CV could be between 2 – 8 pages long. Remember though, it can be as long as it needs to be!  5. Presentation is vital. Use a clear font and size (we recommend 12-point Arial, Calibri or Times), a clear layout, avoid large chunks of text and use bullet points.  6. Keep it concise.  Adopt a style of writing that is professional, using short and simple sentences - use active words when referring to skills and focus on positive aspects. 7. Match to the job description.  Prioritise the section of your CV that matches the job at the top, so it's seen first.  Reprioritise the least relevant content to appear further down each section.  Highlight elements that match the specific job description and person specification. 8. Do not exaggerate.  There is no need to exaggerate any information on your CV. And remember you don’t need to include everything you have done in your career, if it is not relevant to the application, consider if you need to include it at all. There will be plenty of opportunity at interviews to get this information across. 9. Align with the trust or hospital values.  Your CV and interview should demonstrate that your personal values and behaviours align with the NHS values outlined in the NHS Constitution. In a nutshell these are your motivation and commitment to the NHS and the role, your ability to work in multi-professional teams, the central importance of the patient's experience. 10. No need to waste paper. Don’t include a cover sheet or index. You want the reader to see the main page straight away, which shows who you are, what qualifications you have and that you are suitable for the vacancy. 11. Use a spell checker!  To ensure no spelling mistakes, use a spell checker. One of the main reasons a CV will be rejected is incorrect spelling.  12. Proofread.  Competition means that you need to prepare an error free CV. Proofreading is crucial, and spelling checks on your computer will not suffice. Take time to conduct a thorough examination looking for possible errors or flaws in format, sentence structure, content or layout.  13. Get someone else to proofread.  Ask a peer or senior colleague to proofread and get their feedback. Don’t forget to act upon their feedback and make any necessary changes, before asking them to check again, just in case.  14. Get us to proofread!  CLICK HERE & SEND YOUR CV TO US FOR A FREE AND QUICK CV REVIEW IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. Follow us on social media for news and updates on GMC registration, the Royal College and NHS through the links below:               

In a landmark decision, the government agreed to an increase to the pay of NHS junior and senior doctors in England, based on the recommendation of the Review Body on Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration (DDRB). This pay rise will equate to an increase of 6% for senior doctors i.e., consultants and SAS doctors, and for junior doctors, an agreed average pay increase of 6% with a one-off uplift of £1,250.  This pay increase is not only a testament to the power of the industrial action by NHS doctors over the past several months. Whilst an acknowledgement of the efforts and hard work of NHS doctors, this pay increase fails to fully consider the rationale behind these strikes and the BMA’s calls for the UK government to fully restore pay to 2008-09 levels. In contrast, strike action was suspended in Scotland, following a 12.4% pay offer from the Scottish government. Whilst the Scottish pay offer is a move in the right direction, IMG Connect remains fully in support of doctors taking part in industrial action. The decision to go on strike is not taken lightly, but is a fundamental right of doctors who want to protect the NHS and its ability to provide quality care to patients and our communities, whilst also ensuring their work and wellbeing are properly valued and compensated. Sources https://www.gov.uk/government/news/nhs-staff-receive-pay-rise https://www.bmj.com/content/382/bmj.p1624 For more information on working in the NHS or how this pay increase will affect you as an NHS doctor or IMG, contact us at info@imgconnect.co.uk.                

Guest blog, written by Dr Jon Turvey, Core Psychiatry Trainee, Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust  Dreams of providing quality psychiatric care within the dynamic medical landscape of a job in the NHS, often lead overseas psychiatrists from healthcare systems around the world to embark on the journey towards Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych).  As a crucial milestone on the path to a career in psychiatry within the UK, the MRCPsych examinations provide an internationally recognised credential that sets the bar for clinical excellence, comprehensive medical knowledge and training, and confident decision-making skills in the field.  In this blog, we’ll be covering some of the key aspects of the Paper A and B exams, as well as introducing you to PassMRCPsych, an online learning and resources platform for MRCPsych aspirants, summarised in the headings below:  Why does MRCPsych matter? An overview of MRCPsych Paper A Unpacking MRCPsych Paper B IMG Psychiatrists partners with PassMRCPsych Mapping your MRCPsych journey Using PassMRCPsych for exam success Why does MRCPsych Matter? The value of holding MRCPsych cannot be understated, serving as both a symbol of your medical competence as a psychiatrist and giving you a competitive edge in the NHS job market. Attaining full MRCPsych demonstrates to potential employers that you have the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to provide high-quality care to patients.  MRCPsych also provides a steppingstone for further specialist training and can significantly enhance career prospects for international psychiatrists, more easily facilitating entry into more senior positions in the NHS, such as specialty doctor, the new specialist grade and consultant roles.   An overview of MRCPsych Paper A Paper A is a written exam comprising 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and extended-matching questions (EMQs), sat over 3 hours and now held online, through test centres. Paper A forms the foundation of the MRCPsych and focuses on the basic sciences that underline psychiatric practice. It touches on areas such as neurosciences, psychology, and social sciences, which are the cornerstone of psychiatry and set the scene for more advanced topics.  The average pass mark is typically around 60-70%, although this varies slightly depending on the difficulty of the paper for each diet. As per the latest statistics from the Royal College website, approximately 65% of candidates pass Paper A each diet.   You can find a detailed breakdown of the Paper A exam here.  Unpacking MRCPsych Paper B Similarly to Paper A, Paper B comprises 150 MCQs and EMQs sat over 3 hours through a remote test centre. Paper B requires an understanding of more nuanced clinical topics like psychopathology, treatment protocols, and management strategies for psychiatric disorders. It's about applying your foundational knowledge to real-world scenarios and demonstrating effective clinical decision-making.  For Paper B, the average pass mark usually ranges around 65-70%, with a pass rate of approximately 60%.  See here for an in-depth overview of the Paper B exam.  Partnering with PassMRCPsych As an exciting development in our provision of medical education, IMG Connect and PassMRCPsych have forged a partnership to offer extensive support to overseas doctors preparing for the MRCPsych exams. This collaboration aims to ensure your exam success through a series of exam-focused webinars and a continuously evolving and up-to-date revision resource to keep pace with the demands of the MRCPsych exams, along with discounts on revision course subscriptions.  Mapping Your Journey: A 4-Month Study Plan Navigating the MRCPsych exams is no easy feat. It demands rigorous and methodical preparation for UK trainees and IMGs alike. Here's a 4-month study plan for each exam to keep your preparation on track:  Month 1: Get to Grips with the Syllabus - Familiarise yourself with the syllabus and identify key areas that you need to focus on (these may be areas you are less familiar with or those not covered by your current practice). Use this month to dive into the revision notes on PassMRCPsych. Join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group for access to Paper A and Paper B study courses to support your study alongside your PassMRCPsych resources.  Month 2: Deep Dive into Topics - In this month, start working on each topic systematically. Use the revision notes to ensure you cover every aspect and create your own short notes for quick revision closer to the exam date.  Month 3: Challenge Yourself - This is the month to test your knowledge. Attempt the MCQs in the question bank regularly. This will help you gauge your understanding and identify areas of weakness. Don’t forget to read the explanations when you get the answers wrong!  Month 4: Revise and Review - Revision is the key to retaining information. Revisit your short notes, attempt more MCQs, and make full use of the PassMRCPsych mock tests to familiarise yourself with the exam pattern. This final month should be dedicated to reinforcing your learning, particularly on topics which you need to keep in your short-term memory.  Remember, while this study plan serves as a roadmap, you should adapt it to suit your personal learning style and pace e.g., time available to prepare and external commitments. The aim is to ensure comprehensive understanding and effective retention of knowledge.  PassMRCPsych - Your Companion in Success The seemingly vast MRCPsych syllabus might appear intimidating, but with the right guidance and resources, passing Paper A and Paper B can transform from an uphill task into an achievable goal. Here's where PassMRCPsych comes into play.  The online platform is armed with resources tailored specifically to the MRCPsych syllabus, from comprehensive revision notes that decode every topic in the syllabus, to an MCQ question bank with over 5000 questions, and mock exams providing the perfect opportunity to test your knowledge under timed conditions.  Better still, PassMRCPsych can also be used through a mobile app (on both iOS and Android), ensuring that your study materials are just a tap away and facilitating the seamless switch from studying at your desk to revising on-the-go.   It’s important to acknowledge that the MRCPsych exams come with a not insignificant cost. Understanding the financial constraints that often accompany rigorous exam preparations, PassMRCPsych offers highly competitively priced subscriptions which ensure that every aspirant, regardless of their budget, has access to top-notch preparation resources.  Dr Aisha, a satisfied user, shared her experience:   "PassMRCPsych.com was instrumental in my MRCPsych journey. The meticulous revision notes, the challenging MCQs, and the realistic mock exams provided an unparalleled learning experience. The convenience of a mobile app made it possible for me to study anywhere, anytime. And the affordable subscription didn't put a dent in my pocket while offering unparalleled resources."  Your Future Awaits With your career goals within reach, embark on your journey towards conquering the MRCPsych exams by subscribing to PassMRCPsych for Paper A and Paper B. Utilise their exhaustive resources and mock exams, and watch your preparation transform into success!  For a walkthrough of the PassMRCPsych platform and resources, join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group.  To receive the latest news and updates on all things psychiatry, including the MRCPsych, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.             

NHS Consultant Salary: Take-Home Pay for International Doctors in Northern Ireland For international medical graduates (IMGs) interested in working in the NHS, understanding what an NHS consultant salary could mean as monthly take-home pay in Northern Ireland is crucial for financial planning. To help overseas doctors prepare for life in the UK, we’ve compiled examples to give you a clearer picture of what you might expect to take home each month. How Much Will I Take Home? In the UK, take-home pay refers to the amount deposited into your bank account after all necessary deductions have been made from your annual salary. These deductions typically include: Income Tax National Insurance contributions NHS pension payments It's important to note that these figures serve as guidelines. We’ve calculated them based on the gross salary at each pay threshold, assuming no other sources of income. Your actual take-home pay could vary depending on several factors, such as: Additional responsibilities or extra hours worked Other income sources Your final tax bracket Opting out of the NHS pension Claiming tax-deductible expenses Take-Home Pay Expectations in Northern Ireland For NHS consultants and specialty doctors working in Northern Ireland, your monthly take-home pay will fluctuate based on these variables. We recommend consulting with an IMG specialist to help you better understand your potential earnings and to explore ways to maximise your income. Keep in mind that NHS pay scales can be influenced by factors like experience, job responsibilities, and the specific Trust you’re employed by. By having a realistic understanding of your NHS consultant salary and how it translates into monthly take-home pay, you'll be better prepared for a successful career and life in the UK. Threshold Annual gross salary* Estimated annual take-home pay** Estimated monthly take-home pay** 1 £88,799 £60,533 £5,046 2 £91,581 £62,166 £5,181 3 £94,362 £63,779 £5,315 4 £97,141 £65,391 £5,449 5 £99,913 £66,999 £5,583 6 £106,520 £69,527 £5,794 7 £113,124 £72,037 £6,003 8 £119,723 £74,544 £6,212   *before tax and pension **based on standard salary and not inclusive of additional payments for extra hours worked or pension deductions To explore detailed information on NHS pay scales and salary conditions across all grades in the UK, check out our comprehensive series of blogs on career structure and NHS doctor pay in our IMG Resources library. These resources are designed to help international doctors understand their earning potential at various stages of their careers in the NHS.

Vacancies for Emergency Medicine doctors from outside the UK can be found in a variety of ways, which for some doctors can sometimes be time-consuming and confusing. Working with IMG Connect will give you easy access to vacancies for consultants, clinical fellows, registrars, specialty doctors, trust doctors, as well as LAS posts. The IMG Connect job search is a dedicated online recruitment service for overseas doctors looking to secure a job in the NHS. View our latest Doctor Jobs in the NHS, here.  Save time and get expert advice based on your preferences  Performing a job search online can take up a lot of your time, so at IMG Connect we are here to do the time-consuming work for you. Upon registering, you will have a dedicated consultant whose role is to find jobs that match your skills, and apply for NHS jobs on your behalf.  You can receive jobs updates by E-mail to view new posts to suit your job search every day. Create a profile – it takes 30 seconds It really is that easy, so why not take advantage of our resources, time and energy to find you the right job in the NHS suited to your preferences. By providing us with some key details we can quickly assess which jobs are best suited to your preferences, and even email you job alerts for new exciting roles which we think will interest you! We understand you, and our clients When looking for an Emergency Medicine job in the NHS, it can be hard to try to find out key information before applying, such as: What specialty specific training there will be?  Am I likely to get a training post after taking this role? Can the trust support CESR applicants and is their CESR programme established enough for my needs?  What career progression is available for me with the Emergency Medicine Specialty?  What is the job plan and how much time will I spend on the ward?  What is it like to work and live there?  What salary will I get paid, and can I get extra pay for additional shifts?  It can be tricky to get all the answers you want before applying online, so we spend our time getting to know both our clients and you, finding out as much key information as possible to help you to make the right decisions. Including details on the Emergency Medicine department, hospital & trust, as well as an overview of what it is like to live in the area, including housing and the cost of living, as well as access to schools for your children, childcare and finding work for spouses.  Making an impact We will also provide you with top tips on CV writing, job applications and interviews, ensuring that your application and interview makes the most impact with our NHS clients.  Making it personal  Once registered, you can quickly search and apply for NHS jobs using our job search, and take advantage of many useful articles written to support you through your journey to the UK. In addition, when you sign up to 'job alerts' we will automatically email you each time a relevant Emergency Medicine vacancy comes available that you may be interested in. Once logged in, you can also save job details and make applications.  By registering with IMG Connect, you will: Have a dedicated consultant who understands your preferences and will do the time-consuming job searches and applications for you. Find your ideal NHS position among thousands of unadvertised vacancies - from consultant to registrar, or specialty doctor to SHO.  Be the first to hear about new vacancies – registering with IMG Connect means that your CV will gain priority with our NHS clients, and will be professionally represented by international recruitment experts. To help you find a job in the NHS simply follow these easy steps: Register with IMG Connect Fill in the 'Personal details' section. Arrange a chat with your dedicated IMG Consultant  Sign up to receive 'job alerts’  Search our live emergency medicine jobs Searching for Emergency Medicine jobs in the NHS could not be easier If you want to find out more about the many Emergency Medicine roles available within the NHS - it only takes a minute to register with IMG Connect and receive expert advice and representation. We have helped many overseas Emergency Medicine into consultant, specialty doctor, registrar, clinical fellow and staff grade NHS roles, whilst offering expert guidance to many more IMGs on NHS doctor pay, royal college qualifications and English language testing. We’d be happy to help 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.