Welcome to the NHS-Evaluating an International Medical Graduate Induction Programme

Aims/Background International Medical Graduates (IMGs) form a vital part of the United Kingdom (UK) medical workforce. Despite the increasing reliance on IMGs, their experiences of working in the National Health Service (NHS) are poorer than those of UK graduates. We explore whether an induction programme can improve the early experiences of IMGs in the NHS. Methods At our London NHS Trust, we have established an IMG office to bring together the other acute Trusts in our sector to co-ordinate support for IMGs. We conduct a centralized, monthly, weeklong induction programme, based on the national guidance, to help orientate IMGs to working in the NHS. Results From our first 8 months, our workforce reported feeling welcomed, valued, more confident and, understanding the NHS better. Conclusion The initial experiences of IMGs in the NHS can be improved through tailored induction programmes. The longer-term impacts of such interventions require further investigation.