Barriers to education of overseas doctors from Indian subcontinet in paediatrics; A qualitative study in South Yorkshire

Jugnu Mahajan ^1* and Patsy stark ²

¹ Rotherham Gen NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom
² Sheffield University, United Kingdom

^* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: jugnu.mahajan{at}rothgen.nhs.uk.

Accepted 19 August 2006

Abstract

Objective: This qualitative study was set up to explore the factors which may influence the progress of doctors who come from Indian subcontinent to train in Paediatrics in the UK.

Methods:: Overseas doctors training in Paediatrics in Rotherham, Sheffield and Doncaster participated in the study. Focus groups were used to collect data; 2 focus groups, each with 4-5 participants, were conducted at 6 weeks intervals. Semi- structured, one-to-one interviews were conducted to add more understanding and depth to issues highlighted in focus groups. The focus groups and interviews were tape recorded; the tapes were transcripted and data were analysed using Grounded Theory; open codes were formed and concepts identified using microanalysis, and initial theories were built.

Results: Lack of information about the N.H.S./Royal Colleges, inappropriate communication skills, difficulties in team working, difficulties in preparing for Royal College examinations, visa and job hunting, and social and cultural isolation were identified as major barriers. Problems arose not only from difficulties with language, but also from use of local and colloquial words, different accents, and difficulty in communicating sensitive issues. Lack of understanding of role in teams and difficulties in working in multi-professional setting all contributed to the problems. Cultural differences inside and outside workplace, and social isolation were also highlighted. Induction programmes, mentoring, awareness of the issues within the teams, and courses in communication specifically directed at overseas doctors were identified as the means to overcoming these barriers.

Conclusions: This study identifies a number of inter-cultural factors that can act as barriers to the progress of overseas doctors training in Paediatrics. Increased awareness of these factors within the teams would be the first step in resolving some of the issues.

Keywords: education - barriers, overseas doctors, qualitative research, training

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