Create a fair pathway for international doctors in the UK
The issue
After living in the UK for four years, contributing to public revenue through taxes from various menial jobs, and completing a costly seven-month clinical attachment, it is disheartening to see qualified professionals like myself continuously denied employment in the NHS, NES or medical agencies. Many of us have paid thousands to pass the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) 1 and 2 exams, yet we face an extremely limited number of NHS roles that require elusive 'NHS experience'. This experience is often difficult to acquire due to the Catch-22 of being unable to gain such experience without already holding a position within the NHS.
This broken system is not only a personal frustration but a professional roadblock for many international doctors who come to the UK with hopes of serving in its reputable healthcare system. Resident doctors from overseas are left in limbo, encouraged to spend substantial sums on exams and attachment fees, yet are left without transparent pathways to meaningful employment. Meanwhile, the NHS continues to face staffing challenges, which seem more solvable when international doctors are ready and willing to contribute.
It's time we address this disparity with practical solutions. We urge the General Medical Council (GMC) and NHSEI (NHS England and NHS Improvement) to take immediate action:
1. **Increase Transparency**: Clearly publish available opportunities and streamline the process for doctors who have completed PLAB to apply for roles within the NHS.
2. **Fair Access to Experience**: Develop a program that provides initial NHS experience to internationally qualified doctors to help them transition into F1 and other roles without the unreasonable prerequisite of experience they cannot obtain.
3. **Pathway Clarity**: Offer clear guidance and reduce unnecessary financial burdens on international medical graduates entering the system.
Doctors who come to the UK are ready to bring their skills, passion, and commitment to ensure patient care remains exemplary. By making these systems fairer, we not only honour their hardships but also strengthen our healthcare workforce during challenging times.
Sign this petition to create a transparent and fair employment pathway for international doctors in the UK. Let’s change the system—one that takes our money and offers little hope for career progression. Help us ensure opportunity meets merit.
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The issue
After living in the UK for four years, contributing to public revenue through taxes from various menial jobs, and completing a costly seven-month clinical attachment, it is disheartening to see qualified professionals like myself continuously denied employment in the NHS, NES or medical agencies. Many of us have paid thousands to pass the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) 1 and 2 exams, yet we face an extremely limited number of NHS roles that require elusive 'NHS experience'. This experience is often difficult to acquire due to the Catch-22 of being unable to gain such experience without already holding a position within the NHS.
This broken system is not only a personal frustration but a professional roadblock for many international doctors who come to the UK with hopes of serving in its reputable healthcare system. Resident doctors from overseas are left in limbo, encouraged to spend substantial sums on exams and attachment fees, yet are left without transparent pathways to meaningful employment. Meanwhile, the NHS continues to face staffing challenges, which seem more solvable when international doctors are ready and willing to contribute.
It's time we address this disparity with practical solutions. We urge the General Medical Council (GMC) and NHSEI (NHS England and NHS Improvement) to take immediate action:
1. **Increase Transparency**: Clearly publish available opportunities and streamline the process for doctors who have completed PLAB to apply for roles within the NHS.
2. **Fair Access to Experience**: Develop a program that provides initial NHS experience to internationally qualified doctors to help them transition into F1 and other roles without the unreasonable prerequisite of experience they cannot obtain.
3. **Pathway Clarity**: Offer clear guidance and reduce unnecessary financial burdens on international medical graduates entering the system.
Doctors who come to the UK are ready to bring their skills, passion, and commitment to ensure patient care remains exemplary. By making these systems fairer, we not only honour their hardships but also strengthen our healthcare workforce during challenging times.
Sign this petition to create a transparent and fair employment pathway for international doctors in the UK. Let’s change the system—one that takes our money and offers little hope for career progression. Help us ensure opportunity meets merit.
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Petition created on 10 August 2026