A qualitative study exploring the experience of the Medical Intern Programme: Supportive transition for international doctors working in the NHS

Abstract

Background: The UK is experiencing a shortage of doctors. Consequently, the Medical Intern Programme, a unique two year programme consisting of an observership, four clinical rotations at the level of a foundation doctor within an NHS Trust and a postgraduate diploma from a university in the north of England, was set up to enhance the NHS workforce by facilitating the entry of international medical graduates into UK medicine via a supported transitional programme. We aimed to explore the experiences of the doctors enrolled on the Medical Intern Programme. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted via the telephone with seven doctors enrolled on the programme. The interview guide was informed by the research questions and data were analysed using a thematic analysis. Results: We identified four themes that were important in the experiences of the doctors: preparing to work in the UK, feeling supported, weighing up the pros and cons of the programme and comparisons between countries. Conclusions: The Medical Intern Programme successfully facilitated international doctors' transition to the UK and working in the NHS. Support needs to be provided at the organisational, team and individual level including a period of observing and shadowing to enable the doctors to understand the systems and multidisciplinary team working in the NHS.