Code of Practice for the International Recruitment of Healthcare Professionals

The aim of the Code of Practice is to promote high standards of practice in the international recruitment and employment of healthcare professionals. This is underpinned by the principle that any international recruitment of healthcare professionals should not prejudice the healthcare systems of developing countries. Therefore a key component of the Code of Practice is to preclude the active recruitment of healthcare professionals from developing countries, unless there exists a government-to-government agreement to support recruitment activities. The Code of Practice also acknowledges the reality that the international movement of healthcare professionals is a long established practice that will continue. This is a sound and legitimate activity if carried out using an ethical and managed approach. Many international healthcare professionals have developed their own individual career pathways and this Code of Practice gives them the reassurance that employment with the NHS, and other healthcare organisations that comply with the Code of Practice, will offer high standards of induction and support in their new career. [author’s description]