Indian Doctors and Medical Professionals can now be a part of National Health Service (NHS) without having to take the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test. Read this blog to know which immigration route permits such an exemption and how can Indian Doctors join NHS without the PLAB test.

The changing dynamics of immigration and visas have been a subject of interest, especially for Indian Medical Professionals, considering they can now work in the UK’s NHS without undertaking the PLAB test.

International Medical Graduates are primarily required to prove their ability to practice medicine in the UK by taking the PLAB test. The purpose of the test is to evaluate the candidates’ level of medical and communicative proficiency as well as their depth of knowledge. PLAB test is an assessment that typically demands a substantial monetary investment.

A significant number of Indian doctors, roughly 80 doctors over the last 3 years, have commenced their work within the UK’s NHS without the mandatory PLAB test. This surprising exemption was granted due to a notable scarcity of doctors in the UK. To bridge this gap, the General Medical Council (GMC), the regulatory body for doctors in the UK, has validated two schemes organized by the British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO), a voluntary organization working towards integrating Indian medical professionals into the UK’s healthcare system.

BAPIO, established in 1996, has designed two pathways to address the healthcare requirements in both India and the UK. The first pathway involves collaborating with select hospitals in India, enabling recently qualified MBBS candidates to undergo a two-year training program aligning with the UK’s work requirements. During this period, UK-based professionals travel to India to provide hands-on training and support. Successful completion of this program grants candidates exemption from PLAB.

After the training in India, candidates travel to the UK for further training within an NHS Trust partnered with BAPIO. This collaboration ensures candidates receive relevant degrees from Royal Colleges UK after completing all required milestones. This four-year process culminates in candidates attaining a world-class postgraduate qualification and valuable experience working in the UK, ultimately alleviating the strain on the healthcare system and meeting the demand for skilled medical practitioners.

The collaboration between India and the UK, facilitated by organizations like BAPIO, stands as a testament to international cooperation in addressing essential healthcare needs. This marks a promising future for medical professionals seeking opportunities beyond borders.

Immigration policies and regulations undergo several changes on a regular basis. It is thus important to seek professional assistance before planning to pursue to a career overseas.