Thousands of foreign-educated healthcare professionals leave their country of origin each year to pursue a healthcare career in another nation. The United States and the United Kingdom are two of the most popular destinations. In the US and UK, these professionals play an increasingly crucial role in filling staffing gaps and contributing to delivering quality patient care. Although there are many similarities to working in these countries, such as navigating licensure requirements and cultural integration, there are also significant differences in the scope of practice, work-life balance, and compensation.
The US remains family-friendly. Healthcare professionals are welcome to bring qualified family members into the country. However, the UK recently banned workers from bringing dependents with them. Ultimately, choosing a destination is based on professional goals, individual preferences, and personal circumstances. Therefore, getting all the facts is imperative before making a final decision.
U.S. Healthcare Professionals
Nurses and allied health professionals enjoy higher salaries and competitive benefits in the United States. Many hospitals and care facilities provide allowances or reimbursements for continuing education, certification, and promotion into leadership roles or different nursing specialties. Candidates can get an EB-3 Visa to live and work in the US and a Green Card for permanent residency. They can also bring their spouse and children under the age of 21. Many U.S. facilities are privately run as opposed to the UK, where most hospitals are part of the publicly funded National Health Service (NHS).
- Passing score on the NCLEX
- Passing score on an English Exam
- Visa Screen Certificate
Allied Health Professional Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Laboratory Science
- Passing score on the ASCPis
- Passing score on an English Exam
- Visa Screen Certificate
Certified Nursing Assistant Requirements
- A High School Degree
- Six months of Nursing Assistant clinical experience
Experience Matters
MedPro International has placed thousands of qualified foreign-educated healthcare professionals or “Explorers” on assignment in the US, more than any other staffing company. MedPro does more than just place individuals in positions. Our team guides candidates through the experience from start to finish, making sure they have the necessary qualifications, documentation, and certifications to become U.S. healthcare professionals.
Explorers enjoy greater job opportunities, protecting their long-term job security. They also receive expert assistance in navigating the immigration process, assimilation training, and additional benefits.
Explorers Receive:
- MedProU® Comprehensive clinical training
- Professional and English Exam preparation
- U.S. Assimilation training (finances and budgeting, U.S. cultural differences, practical life skills, selecting and negotiating terms for housing, and childcare considerations)
- Immigration assistance
- Expert Licensing and Credentialing
- Green Card Sponsorship for individual and family members
- Extensive Job Opportunities
- Paid Time Off, 401(k), Health, Dental, Vision, Life and Disability Insurance, and more.
U.K. Healthcare Professionals
According to The Guardian, one in five UK National Health Service staff are foreign-educated healthcare professionals. However, recent revisions by the Home Office are expected to slash migration levels and reduce the country’s net migration. Foreign-educated healthcare professionals will now need to earn at least £38,700 to obtain a visa, up from £26,200 and care workers are barred from bringing dependents. Individuals who qualify for positions can work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and outpatient settings and are given opportunities to advance as managers, consultants, etc. Pay tends to be slightly lower in the UK; but employees generally receive more paid time off.
Registered nurses will need a Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) registration, a passing score on the Test of Competence (ToC), which includes the computer-based test (CBT) and the objective structured clinical examination (OSCE), a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), a passing score on an English exam, and a Health and Care Worker Visa. Allied Health professionals will need a Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC) Registration, a CoS, a passing score on an English Exam, and a Health and Care Worker Visa. The UK has Healthcare Assistants whose requirements can depend on the job and location.
Professional Future
No two healthcare professionals have the same wants, needs, or goals. Choosing where to pursue a career depends on a plethora of considerations. If you’re ready to launch your U.S. healthcare career, MedPro International is here to help. We’ll assist you through all the necessary steps to qualify for work in the United States, including Green Card sponsorship for you and your family. Kick-start your American dream. Visit MedPro International to complete a brief application, and a Recruiter will contact you right away!