Guidance for International Medical Graduates working in ICM

Published 01/07/2024

Introduction

FICM recognises the challenges faced by International Medical Graduates (IMGs) in embedding into UK practice. This information has been produced to support them within the ICU environment. It aims to supplement the knowledge gained from the GMC's ‘Welcome to UK Practice’ online workshops and e-Learning for Health's ‘NHS induction for International Medical Graduates.

This guidance is intended for use by International Medical Graduates who are new to, or are in their first 12 months, of working in the NHS.

We are committed to supporting a positive experience for our International Medical Graduates. We hope this will provide useful information to help you:  

  • Feel valued as an International Medical Graduate
  • Become familiar with UK Intensive Care Medicine practice
  • Guide your self-directed learning and portfolio progression
  • Support supervisors to ensure adequate preparation is in place for placements.

To this end we have also produced some general guidance to support not only IMG doctors, but the supervisors and hospitals that facilitate these placements. This is not an exhaustive list but looks to provide examples that can be adapted to suit local requirements. It aims to guide the knowledge, skills and experience required for successful integration into the NHS workforce.

For ease of use we have also produced an IMG Induction Pack (will be uploaded shortly). This should be adapted for local use, and targeted to the individual doctors' requirements based on their prior experience.

For International Medical Graduates (IMGs) starting their first job in the NHS can be challenging. It is a new system and a new culture. The information provided in this guidance aims to support you in settling into your first Intensive Care Medicine (ICM) job in the NHS. This guidance is not an exhaustive list of activities. Some things will need to be considered prior to your arrival in the UK, and some on arrival.