Excellence in Medicine Women Physicians Network hosted her third International career advancement session on the 25th of July 2020, with Dr. Abimbola Yerimah (fondly called Dr Abi) as the speaker. With her usual warm and friendly mien, she patiently talked us through the steps needed to have a successful navigation of the UK health system.
Below are some participant reviews:
What an insightful session with Dr Abi! Got a better understanding of how the healthcare system in the UK works as well as means of harnessing opportunities. By the way, I was amazed at Dr Abi’s patience at answering our many questions– Dr A.A.
Super amazing and highly informative session with Dr Abi. The right information helps avoid making certain mistakes or taking longer, more arduous routes. This session was an apt reminder. –Dr O.A.
I’m so glad I got to attend this session against all odds! It was so enlightening and helped me understand what previously seemed so foreign and confusing to me. Dr Abi was so great, down to earth and relatable and super-patient. –Dr D.O
Thank you very much Dr Abi and all the facilitators of EIM. I was really encouraged and given a wider perspective on my views about the health care system in the UK. It was clearer, grateful and thankful to Dr Jummy for the opportunity. Dr O.A
Here’s a brief summary of the session:
- In this season, get the right information (from verifiable sources):
Getting information and clarity from the right sources is paramount. The General Medical Council (UK) is working round the clock to make new rules and information available on their website (such as the extension of the validity period ofPLAB 1 test). Check this website routinely to get succinct information in real-time to guide your decision-making process!
2. Stay Prepared:
In spite of the pandemic, the world continues to evolve. This is important because you must stay prepared! Extensions and adjustments have been made by the General Medical Council (GMC) for the PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 examinations but still, write those exams as quickly as possible.
3 Build a Strong Support System:
Individuals with strong support systems and networks have repeatedly shattered glass ceilings worldwide. Your support system can consist of trusted mentors, those who have walked in the steps you now walk, support networks for medical doctors such as the EIM Women Physicians Network, family and friends.
4. Planning:
Achieving any goal requires a solid strategy and plan in place. Same goes for writing your exams to practice medicine in the UK. Work with timelines and schedules, set reminders and keep your eyes on the prize!
You also need to plan your finances, as you’d require quite a sum to walk through the process of writing exams, booking flight tickets, transportation, other necessities etc. Your strategy should include a strong savings’ plan.
5. Keep in mind the new house-keeping rules a.k.a “Self-isolation/Quarantine Rules for New UK Arrivals”:
Don’t forget this new self-isolation/quarantine rule necessitated by the novel Coronavirus pandemic! Now, on arrival into the UK, you will have to self isolate for a 14-day period. Understandably, this might impact your savings plan and your timelines, so be sure to incorporate it.
Challenges are the breakfast of winners, so do not let this ‘setback’ keep you stuck. Get to work already by studying, planning and saving vigorously!
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