Hey there, it feels good to be back writing for this blog after a hiatus, but it's for a pretty fantastic reason—I've taken a leap closer to my dreams and now find myself working within the incredible framework of the NHS. Settling in took time, but it was a crucial step. Every moment has been a part of an immense learning curve, and truth be told, I've cherished it all.
In this post, I'll be diving into my deep affection for my job here, my adoration for the bustling city of London, and I'll also sprinkle in some tips for navigating the move to a new country.
Firstly, if you're reading this in preparation for a move abroad—be it for work or studies—congratulations! You're among the bravest souls out there. Moving countries is monumental, and it's vital to be gentle with yourself. Take time to absorb the upcoming changes. And once you've made the leap, grant yourself the space to acclimate. Breathe. There's a multitude of things to figure out, but it's essential to take things one step at a time. It's an entirely new system, environment, people, and culture shock all rolled into one. However, remember this: those around you often comprehend that you're navigating unfamiliar terrain and are usually willing to extend a helping hand. Always ask questions, no matter how trivial they may seem. Embrace the learning curve and seek guidance whenever you need it.
Let's talk about the first steps you'll want to nail down before your journey kicks off.
Accommodation:
Sorting out your accommodation should top your list of priorities. Whether it's a temporary stay like an Airbnb or diving into the house-hunting whirlwind upon arrival, finding the right place was a bit of a challenge for me. But, I eventually stumbled upon a place I adored—within budget and conveniently close to my workplace in London (yes, I'll keep emphasizing that!).
I scoured through platforms like SpareRoom, Zoopla, and OpenRent before stumbling upon my ideal home. For those venturing as Masters students, student accommodations could be your golden ticket. Review the contract meticulously, make necessary amendments, and you're all set.
Commuting from Airport:
Now, onto travel from the airport. I personally pre-booked a local taxi service in advance from India, but Uber is a reliable option too. Alternatively, there are taxi booths at the airport where you can arrange transport.
Occupational health checkup:
For medical job seekers, an occupational health check-up is essential. Schedule an appointment with your trust to undergo necessary tests and vaccinations. This step helps avoid any delays in your start date.
ID Check:
Booking an appointment before your job commences can save you from waiting around on your first day. Ensure you gain access to required inpatient and outpatient services at your hospital.
BRP:
Your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is crucial—it's your visa to stay in the UK. Collect it from the designated local post office or university. The collection point is typically indicated during your visa application process. While my national insurance number was on the BRP, it might vary, you may have to apply for work if you’re planning to start work soon.
GP Registration:
Once you settle into your permanent residence, it's time for GP registration. Look up the nearest GP online and get registered to access medical services in your area.
Bank account:
Sorting out a bank account is next on the checklist. Again, you need a permanent address for this. It is essential for you to have a bank account for receiving your salary and for general transactions, even if you're a student.
BMA subscription:
For doctors, the BMA subscription is a valuable resource. It keeps you updated on pertinent issues and offers support throughout your medical career.
Medical indemnity:
When it comes to safeguarding your medical practice, medical indemnity is a must. It's a nominal cost—I secured an annual subscription from MDU for around £50
Tesco club card:
Consider signing up for a Tesco Clubcard; it's free and can save you a significant chunk on your grocery bills at Tesco, which tends to be a popular go-to store for many of us here.
Shadowing period:
My advice? Ask for a shadowing period—it’s your compass through the maze. Trust me, starting fresh in a brand-new system, surrounded by new faces, specialties, and procedures can overwhelm even the most seasoned professional. Engage with your rota coordinator beforehand; understanding the rota, department, and wards is crucial. I was fortunate—my educational supervisor ensured I was shown around on my first day. However even without a formal induction, connecting with fellow SHOs provides a basic understanding of how things operate.
My first day was a whirlwind—I felt completely lost and clueless. However, my colleagues were incredibly supportive, and gradually, I began grasping the workflow, job procedures, and who to approach for various tasks. It’s a steep climb, no doubt, but the view from the top is worth it. Settling in? It’s a marathon, not a sprint, whether you’re a fresh-faced student or a professional. Surprisingly, you might find you already know more than you think about the job. Patience and self-compassion are your best allies here, it is a constant learning curve.
After a 2.5-month period, I've reached a point where I feel acclimated within the system. I now possess confidence in my decision-making abilities and have seamlessly integrated into the environment. The multidisciplinary approach has provided me with a unique and enriching experience, making my work much more enjoyable and captivating.
London—my vibrant workplace, offers morethan just a career- it's an open invitation to explore. Weekends here are anything but dull; there’s always an adventure waiting. I’m a firm believer that where you work should sync with your passion. Personally, I couldn't envision working anywhere else. I always stress the importance of considering location and specialty when applying for jobs. After all, if you've journeyed this far, take the time to savor the perks—a better quality of life and the chance to spread your wings, discover new places, and revel in diverse experiences.
I'll delve deeper into on-call shifts, long and short days in my upcoming blogs, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of what it's truly like to practice medicine here. For me, relocating here has been an incredible decision. This city, this career move—life has taken on a new hue. I've fallen for the thrill of the unknown, the promise of growth, and the sheer magic of being in a place that sparks inspiration at every corner.
Onwards and upwards, always!
This is very helpful, thank you! :)