Some notes for graduates from Turkey & India
Moving to the UK to find work represents a well-travelled path. For example, many medical schools around the world frequently utilise similar textbooks or contents as British institutions, meaning students are equipped with transferrable knowledge. Moreover, the liberal and multicultural society that exists in the UK makes the country very welcoming to overseas professionals.
Furthermore, the NHS is widely accepted to be one of the best healthcare systems to work as a doctor in the world. Not only does this present an excellent working environment in which medical professionals can significantly progress their careers, but it can also add far higher value to any CV as the institution is recognised around the world.
The country is also home to some of the most beautiful cities and stunning countryside, aspects that make living and working in the UK as an international doctor a thoroughly enjoyable experience. The cost of living is considerably lower in comparison to the USA, Germany, Switzerland, Scandinavian countries, Belgium and the Netherland, too.
However, some non-medical issues can make difficult to move. The difficulty of obtaining a license to practice as a doctor in the UK is one such aspect and has placed limitations on the flow of talent in previous years. But, after the Covid19 pandemic, some restrictions on licensing non-UK healthcare professionals have been relaxed, as the need for healthcare professionals and waiting times for treatment have reached unacceptable levels for patients.
Especially among Turkish and Indian origin doctors, the concerns about the problem of licensing prevent them from taking a step in their thoughts of working in the UK. In fact, around a third of doctors working in the NHS system are foreign nationals. However, according to the population of their own countries, especially the number of doctors coming from Turkey is far behind countries such as Bangladesh, Philippines, Greece, Egypt, Sudan, Burma and Nigeria when compared to the population.
Considering the high level of medical science in Turkey, it is not easy to explain the reluctance of Turkish physicians to apply for a GMC license.
