National praise for our international medical graduates induction
Over a third of the doctors registered in the UK gained their primary medical qualification overseas. Here at Barts Health, around 200 international medical graduates (IMGs) join us each year, bringing vital skills, perspectives and lived experience to the diverse communities we serve across East London.
To help IMGs settle into NHS life, the Trust has built a comprehensive package of educational, professional and pastoral support designed to guide doctors through the realities of working in a fast-moving NHS and help them thrive from day one. This includes a structured induction, simulation-based learning, peer support and ongoing development opportunities.
A Royal London IMG doctor described the impact of the programme:
“Many of us were struggling with anxiety, feelings of inadequacy and fear of failure, and the information provided in the sessions has gone a long way towards helping us get back on our feet.
The ability to share our experiences and bond with each other has been the highlight of my time here. This truly is a marvellous initiative.”
Our interactive course is taught by colleagues from our simulation and clinical skills team and centres on five clinical encounters using actors and experienced debriefers. Through experiential learning and reflective discussion, IMGs build confidence, adaptability and communication skills - all of which strengthen patient care and teamwork across the Trust.
In July, Whipps Cross Hospital welcomed Dr Ruth Brown, associate postgraduate dean at NHS England and Jo Wren, head of general medicine council outreach for London, to learn more about our IMG support. Led by Mr Rehan Khan, Barts Health director of medical education for locally employed doctors, the visit explored our exemplar induction programme and highlighted good practice that could be shared more widely.
A number of colleagues from across the trust showcased our commitment of clinical, educational and operational teams in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for doctors joining us from overseas.
NHS England (NHSE) and the General Medical Council (GMC) praised the Trust’s progress and highlighted our programme as an example of strong, scalable practice:
"NHS England MWRES [Medical Workforce Race Equality Standard] team would like to thank Whipps Cross Hospital and the Barts Health team for their enthusiasm, hospitality, and openness to discussion with the visiting team. Their progress with the implementation of the IMG Induction programme is commendable.”
A huge welcome to our IMGs, and a big thank you to all our colleagues supporting them to Bloom at Barts.