New measures set to curb overseas recruitment to NHS

New proposals to help curb the poaching of doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals from developing countries have been announced today by Health Minister John Hutton.

The proposals outlined are designed to strengthen the code of practice on international recruitment. The code prevents agencies targeting developing nations, stripping those countries of qualified health professionals.

The main proposals for strengthening the code include offering private sector employers programmes to reduce 'back door' recruitment into the NHS, and closing the loophole allowing healthcare providers to bring in locum and temporary staff from developing countries.

The code currently applies to 178 agencies and restricts recruitment from over 150 developing countries, including South Africa, other African nations and Asian countries.

John Hutton said: "We are determined not to destabilise the healthcare system of developing countries. The NHS is expanding, but we're not going to do that at the expense of other countries. We are working with the private sector to ensure it follows the NHS' example.

"These proposals will strengthen the code even further, bring the private sector into line with the NHS and will ensure that, as with Independent Treatment Centres, NHS contracts go to those signed up to the code."

The Department aims to publish a revised code later this year.

(gmcg)