IMG NHS Guide - Before you start
This guide has been developed to support and signpost you to the induction and pastoral support available to help you settle into your new role. It is full of interactive links to take you to the outlined resources.
Some resources in this guide are suitable for doctors entering formal medical training programmes, whilst others are for doctors joining Health Boards at all grades, across all specialities.
Explore the range of tools to signpost you to the induction and pastoral support available before you start, to help you settle into your new role.
We welcome you to Scotland and hope you develop an interesting and rewarding career in the Health Service.
If you have any questions about the information in this guide, or you feel there is information which would be useful to add, please get in touch with the Centre for Workforce Supply at nes.cws@nhs.scot.
What you need to know
NHS Scotland Careers International Recruitment Hub
Explore the different pathways and options for progressing your medical career in NHS Scotland.
Scotland Deanery IMG Induction Resources
Prepare for life in Scotland, discover education, training, and support schemes for IMG doctors.
General Medical Council (GMC) Welcome to UK Practice Course
Workshops (online or in-person) to help doctors new to the UK, offering practical guidance about ethical scenarios, with the opportunity to connect with other internationally-qualified doctors.
Scottish IMG Pre-Induction Online Webinar and Resources
Online webinars with key information detailed in the pre-induction pack.
Royal Colleges
Provide advice on curricula and career paths for IMG doctors, as well as IMG specific resources/guides:
Academy of Medical Royal Colleges and Faculties in Scotland
Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (UK) with links to 24 Medical Royal Colleges and Faculties
Royal College of Psychiatrists - guidance for doctors who completed their primary medical education outside the UK and wish to work in psychiatry or pursue higher training in psychiatry in the UK.
Royal College of GPs - a guide for overseas doctors planning to train and work in the UK as a GP.
British Medical Association (BMA)
The BMA is the trade union and professional body for doctors in the United Kingdom. You will find advice, support, and information.
The Medical Defence Union (MDU)
Support and guidance for IMGs around dealing with medico-legal issues, complaints, and claims, for incidents arising from their clinical care.
Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS)
The Medical and Dental Defence Union of Scotland (MDDUS) provides professional indemnity, legal support, and expert guidance tailored to the needs of International Medical Graduates (IMGs) working in the UK healthcare system.
GMC Insurance and Indemnity Information
Guidance on the appropriate insurance and indemnity arrangements needed to practice in the United Kingdom.
Explore the Centre for Workforce Supply Resource Hub
