What To Consider Before Moving Abroad as a Healthcare Professional

Many trained doctors choose to work abroad temporarily, if not permanently. But there are some essential things to think about first.

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One of the great things about being a doctor is that your skills are in demand everywhere. This is why many trained doctors choose to work abroad temporarily, if not permanently. But before you cross the border into a new life, there are some essential things to think about first:

Why do you want to work abroad?

Perhaps you want to gain experience in a different country which will benefit your home country on your return. You might want to expand your opportunities and salary. Maybe you want to immerse yourself in a different culture, meet new people or learn a new language. It also could be that you need a breath of fresh air. Whatever your reasons are, you need to be clear about why this is right for you. While moving abroad can be exciting, it might also be uncomfortable and, at times, demanding. Your “why” can propel you to face these possible adversities or challenges.

Consider the countries that will suit you and do some research.

What is the healthcare system like in other nations? What certificates or credentials are qualified in your target countries? For example, if you are thinking of going to Japan, you would need to know that there is much attention given to elderly patients. If you are thinking of living in Zimbabwe as a nurse, higher education is highly encouraged. What is called a medical technologist in one country is called a medical laboratory scientist in another. Aside from this, there are cultural differences that you need to recognize as well. These are all considerations that can impact not only your decision but also your lifestyle and experience at work long term.

Get information about the terminology, credentials, duties, and responsibilities your position will involve. You need to know if you would be willing to take on the advantages and disadvantages of your new venture. Moving to another country is a huge commitment, and you cannot walk away at the first sight of an inconvenience.?

If possible, talk to someone who has already done what you intend to do.

You can talk to friends or family currently living abroad. They do not necessarily need to be employed in the medical field to describe the hospitals, healthcare, and culture in their countries. Perhaps you can find an Internet forum where you can contact such people. Another option would be joining online webinars to interact with those already in the hospital or area you would like to work.?

Get all the terms and conditions in writing first.

You can look up government websites to gain more understanding of the expectations. Be clear with the definition of the length of your contract, role, salary, benefits, and termination. These elements of your contract have a long-lasting effect on your ability to keep up your standard of living in that country. Reviewing the terms and conditions and ensuring you are aware of all its necessary details will help avoid any unpleasant surprises on your first day of work and in the long run.

Make necessary safety and health precautions.

See your doctor for a pre-travel consultation to know any health risks you are prone to ahead of time. Do extensive research to know what tests and medical requirements you need to fulfill. You might need to get immunized against certain diseases to work in your chosen country, and you might also want to consider taking out private health insurance if none is offered.?

Have all the requirements ready.

You will probably need all of the following: visa, evidence of current registration, degree certificates, references, any specific English language test and score you need to acquire (e.g., TOEIC, IELTS, etc.), and a letter of appointment from your new employer. You wouldn't want to experience the hassle of repeatedly returning to and from your agency because you could not present crucial documents. Consider the time it would take to complete this. Preparation is key.

Have you considered working in Australia, Canada, or the US?

One of the countries you would want to consider in your search for your next big step would be Australia. The opportunities in the country include exceptional public and private healthcare and access to high-quality education. Registration with conditions is available to anyone who wishes to work in Australia temporarily. You will need a Temporary Business visa, but first, you will need to provide evidence that you are eligible for registration with the appropriate State Medical Board. To be permitted, you must have a Bachelor’s degree in your relevant area of study, at least a year of post-graduate work experience, and registration and membership with the appropriate regulatory body for your field.?

Additionally, another excellent option would be Canada. It has an extensive healthcare system financed through general tax revenues. The entire Canadian population is included in this and receives fundamental hospital and doctors' services with no direct charges. To work in Canada, you will need employment authorization and a work permit, and you will have to undergo a medical examination. There is also a short, computer-based test assessing an individual’s competency for entry into supervised clinical practice in postgraduate training programs. It is worth noting, however, that Quebec has different immigration procedures.

Suppose you want to work in the United States. In that case, you must first gain certification from the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) after registering for your medical school and graduation year in the International Medical Education Directory. Employment visas will not be issued unless all the criteria have been fulfilled. Still, temporary visas are available to people taking part in an officially approved program sponsored by an educational institution.

Key Takeaways

Aside from all the paperwork and preparation for moving abroad, do not forget all the positive reasons and meaningful experiences you might encounter as well. A different destination could lead to the opportunities you need to fulfill your “why.” Just remember your “why” and start the steps to that new path.?Ensure that you are all set and are willing and hopefully excited to take on whatever comes your way. Are you up for the challenge of moving abroad?

A global healthcare recruitment marketplace like medvocation helps connect medical professionals with the best healthcare employers and recruiters to allow you to take the next step in your international healthcare career.

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