Fellowships and international medical graduates: the need for a reappraisal

Davies highlights the challenges of various fellowship schemes for international medical graduates (IMGs).1 Since the medical training initiative (MTI) scheme was established, it has been widely recognised as successful and mutually beneficial.2 The NHS has always relied on IMGs, who make up over 30% of the workforce.3The MTI scheme supports IMGs through international collaboration with NHS trusts. By facilitating General Medical Council registration, sponsoring Tier 5 visas, and providing pastoral support, the royal colleges, through the scheme, aim to bring the highest standards of UK medical training to a diverse global group.456 Many trusts can now recruit directly without royal college involvement, provided they have GMC sponsorship status. While individual trusts can sponsor candidates and appoint to fellowship programmes, the direct recruitment process gives them autonomy. Exception reporting helps to identify areas for improvement for trainee doctors employed by Health Education England,7 whereas locally employed doctors do not have that…
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