Re: Scrap the Cap: BMJ calls for end to cap on non-EEA doctors being allowed to work in NHS
The BMJ should be congratulated for their campaign to have a visa system that does not delay benefit to patients and staff of the skills of international doctors who have been offered a post in the NHS.
However recruitment and fast track visas are only the first steps if international recruitment is to succeed , and the performance of doctors new to the NHS is to be optimised.
News of the Windrush scandal, Hostile Environment, Brexit, and Dr Bawa Garba have all received extensive global medical social media coverage .
The NHS can on longer assume it is a sought after employer for doctors.
All medical posts aimed at international doctors should set out detail of the mentorship that will be provided, protected time for professional development and support towards GMC Specialist Registration.
This requires commitment from more than one colleague.
Welcome , respect, empathy, appreciation and friendship are essential for successful integration and optimal performance.
NHS Hospital Human Resources Departments must prioritise help with visas , liaison with the Home Office when delays occur , and should sort out nice accommodation for new arrivals.
Chief Executives, Medical Directors, Clinical Directors need to actively support mentorship by funding backfill sessions and making clear the organisational necessity of adequate support for these doctors.
Rapid Response:
Re: Scrap the Cap: BMJ calls for end to cap on non-EEA doctors being allowed to work in NHS
The BMJ should be congratulated for their campaign to have a visa system that does not delay benefit to patients and staff of the skills of international doctors who have been offered a post in the NHS.
However recruitment and fast track visas are only the first steps if international recruitment is to succeed , and the performance of doctors new to the NHS is to be optimised.
News of the Windrush scandal, Hostile Environment, Brexit, and Dr Bawa Garba have all received extensive global medical social media coverage .
The NHS can on longer assume it is a sought after employer for doctors.
All medical posts aimed at international doctors should set out detail of the mentorship that will be provided, protected time for professional development and support towards GMC Specialist Registration.
This requires commitment from more than one colleague.
Welcome , respect, empathy, appreciation and friendship are essential for successful integration and optimal performance.
NHS Hospital Human Resources Departments must prioritise help with visas , liaison with the Home Office when delays occur , and should sort out nice accommodation for new arrivals.
Chief Executives, Medical Directors, Clinical Directors need to actively support mentorship by funding backfill sessions and making clear the organisational necessity of adequate support for these doctors.
Competing interests: No competing interests