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Guidance for GPs wishing to work overseas

This guidance document (download the pdf using the link on the right) is aimed at doctors working in general practice who want to take time out of employment to work or volunteer overseas, and then return to work as an NHS GP after the period of absence. To work as an NHS GP in the UK a doctor needs to be on the General Medical Council’s (GMC’s) new GP register, and be on a primary care organisation’s (PCO’s) Performers List in the country where they are working or intend to work.

Despite basic centralised guidance from the Department of Health, local policies differ about how GPs can be included on the Performers List. The British Medical Association's International Department has therefore developed this guidance to advise doctors on what to do before they leave and when they return, including issues around training and funding.

BMA member GPs who are considering returning to work are advised to contact askBMA (email askbma@bma.org.uk or telephone 0870 60 60 828), particularly for expert individual contractual advice.

For advice related to international development, please contact the BMA International Department at international.info@bma.org.uk

Other sources of information
GP returners: guidance from BMA General Practioners Committee

Primary Medical Performers Lists: Frequently Asked Questions on Department of Health website