British Journal of Psychiatry
Volume 189, Issue JULY, 2006, Pages 74-78

Experiences and expectations of refugee doctors (Article) (Open Access)

Cohn S. , Alenya J. , Murray K. , Bhugra D. , De Guzman J. , Schmidt U.
  • a [Affiliation not available]
  • b [Affiliation not available]
  • c [Affiliation not available]
  • d [Affiliation not available]
  • e [Affiliation not available]
  • f [Affiliation not available]

Abstract

Background: Refugee doctors constitute a potentially valuable resource for reducing the recruitment crisis in psychiatry. However, various hurdles make their route into the National Health Service (NHS) difficult. Aims: To explore the perceptions and experiences of refugee doctors trying to practise psychiatry in the UK. Method: Thirty-one refugee doctors participated in qualitative interviews designed to elicit their experiences in trying to practise as doctors in the UK. Twenty were re-interviewed about 6 months later. Results: Doctors identified a range of practical problems that made it difficult for them to take the required steps towards practising in the UK. These included lack of appropriate information, lack of a clear route through the system and feelings of isolation. The English language examination was seen as a particular bottleneck, as were finding clinical attachments. The psychological impact of the experience was profound. Conclusions: These findings have important implications for how refugee doctors are introduced to the practice of psychiatry in the NHS. Declaration of interest: None. Funding detailed in Acknowledgements.

Author Keywords

[No Keywords available]

Index Keywords

Follow-Up Studies follow up human Refugees middle aged medical society controlled study State Medicine social support Great Britain medical practice national health service Information Services interview Attitude of Health Personnel Humans Interviews as Topic male female Foreign Medical Graduates Article adult physician United Kingdom medical literature Interviews psychiatry Multilingualism
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-33745805355&doi=10.1192%2fbjp.bp.105.010975&partnerID=40&md5=8cca3cfcf928c05138c7a63869f56c76
DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.105.010975
ISSN: 00071250
Cited by: 11
Original Language: English