Experiences and expectations of refugee doctors: Qualitative study.

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.