If you’re a healthcare professional looking to build a career in the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) is the largest employer and offers a wide range of job opportunities for you. The best way for international medical graduates to find a job in the NHS is by qualifying for the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test. Here we discuss everything a medical graduate needs to know about finding jobs in the NHS with PLAB.
The PLAB (Professional and Linguistics Assessment Board) test is the gateway to practicing medicine in the United Kingdom. The PLAB test contains two parts – PLAB 1 and PLAB 2. The test assesses the candidate’s knowledge and skills to the level required to practice medicine in the UK. PLAB is a mandatory requirement to seek employment in the NHS.
Once you have cleared the PLAB test, it opens up a wide range of job opportunities in the NHS. Firstly, you need to have a valid General Medical Council (GMC) registration with a license to practice. Once you are registered with the GMC, you can apply for jobs through the NHS Jobs website, which is the official job portal for the NHS.
Tips for getting jobs in the NHS with PLAB:
Even if you have cleared PLAB, the competition for jobs in the NHS is intense. So, any additional qualifications and experience you have will increase your chances of getting hired. To increase your chances, gain UK clinical experience, build a network of contacts in the NHS, and apply for jobs in underserved areas.
When looking for vacancies on the NHS Jobs website, you need to have a clear understanding of the recruitment process. You will need to prepare a resume and cover letter that highlight your experience and qualifications. It’s essential to tailor your application to the specific role you are applying for. You can choose suitable jobs by filtering out the appropriate categories and regions, and if you find something that interests you, apply.
PLAB is an excellent opportunity for international medical graduates to increase their chances of finding a suitable job in the NHS and starting their medical careers in the UK. You can increase your chances of getting hired in the NHS by preparing with the right strategy.
