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As the NHS continues to rely on an increasingly global workforce, a new pilot programme in Wales is leading the way in helping international medical graduates (IMGs) integrate more smoothly into the UK healthcare system. The initiative offers tailored induction, cultural orientation, and clinical training—ensuring these highly skilled professionals can adapt confidently, contribute effectively, and thrive in their NHS roles from day one.
With more than a third of NHS doctors now trained overseas, programmes like this are essential to delivering safe, high-quality, and compassionate care for patients across the UK.
The NHS has long benefited from the expertise of doctors from around the world. From India and Nigeria to Egypt, the Philippines, and beyond, internationally trained doctors have helped to fill critical gaps in staffing—particularly in under-served regions and specialisms such as emergency medicine, psychiatry, and general practice.
However, many IMGs face a steep learning curve upon arrival. While their medical knowledge is typically excellent, they may be unfamiliar with:
Without dedicated support, this transition can be overwhelming—leading to stress, underperformance, or disengagement. That’s where this new pilot comes in.
Led by NHS Wales and supported by local education bodies, the pilot programme provides comprehensive induction and mentoring for new IMGs. The initiative includes:
The aim is not simply to teach—but to empower. By addressing both clinical and cultural dimensions, the programme ensures that internationally trained doctors feel supported, valued, and ready to contribute meaningfully to patient care.
“We want IMGs to succeed—not just survive—in the NHS,” said Dr. Rhian Thomas, one of the programme leads. “That means understanding the challenges they face and giving them the tools to meet them with confidence.”
Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. Many report feeling more prepared, more welcome, and more engaged after completing the induction. Clinical supervisors also note improved integration, patient rapport, and team collaboration among newly inducted IMGs.
One doctor from Nigeria described the programme as a “game changer”, saying:
“It gave me clarity, reassurance, and the feeling that I truly belong in the NHS.”
Beyond individual benefits, the pilot is helping NHS Wales develop a replicable framework that could be scaled across the UK. With recruitment from overseas set to remain a key strategy in addressing workforce shortages, the case for national rollout is compelling.
Properly supporting IMGs isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a strategic imperative. When doctors feel confident and included, they are more likely to stay long-term, reducing recruitment churn and improving continuity of care.
For patients, the result is safer, more culturally competent care—delivered by doctors who feel equipped to navigate both clinical and contextual expectations. In a diverse and multilingual NHS, that matters more than ever.
By recognising the unique needs of internationally trained doctors and investing in their success, the NHS is taking an important step toward a stronger, more inclusive, and globally connected workforce.
In welcoming the world’s doctors, we strengthen our own system—and ensure better care for everyone.
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