International medical graduates

Abstract

Editor, I support the call by Al-Haddad on the General Medical Council (GMC) to use the term international medical graduate (IMG) to include all doctors practising in the UK who have a postgraduate medical qualification from outside the country. 1 This will lead to better recognition of the contribution of all of the IMG doctors from the European Economic Area (EEA) and non-EEA regions. Though all doctors receive induction by their employing National Health Service (NHS) Trusts, IMG doctors need additional information and support. They need an introduction to the NHS, information on clinical governance and medical practice as per GMC regulations, communication skills, e-portfolio and the role of the Royal Colleges, deaneries and the British Medical Association. It is also important they understand the cultural differences they may face in the UK. Most Royal Colleges organise quarterly induction programmes for IMG doctors who are sponsored by them on the Medical Training Initiative but they do not always coincide with the start of work by the doctors. 2 This information is best provided by short videos placed on the GMC website or by a booklet.I am pleased the term IMG has replaced 'overseas' doctor. Though it excited me as it reminded of the 'O' in BOAC (British Overseas Airways Corporation). When we first arrived in the UK more than 40 years ago, those who did not have a job had to register with the Aliens Registration Division of the Metropolitan Police in Angel in North London.