The Savvy IMG

Welcome to the Savvy IMG! We're so glad that you're here.

As IMGs ourselves, we know how confusing the whole process of coming to work as a doctor in the UK can be. It can take endless hours in front of a computer trying to figure it all out!

We created this blog to provide accurate, comprehensive information to help you on your IMG journey, so you can save precious time and money, and start enjoying your life in the UK sooner!

We’re honoured to be able to help IMGs like you achieve your UK dreams.

– Doctors Nick & Kimberly Tan

Hi, I'm Nicholas Tan, call me Nick.

I completed a BSc in Medical Technology in 2009 followed by Doctor of Medicine (MD) in 2013, both at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, Philippines – go USTe! I met my wife Kimberly at medical school, and together we pursued postgraduate medical training in the UK.

I’ve been working in the UK since 2015 and I’m a proud international medical graduate. I want to help other IMGs like yourself who have the drive and talent to pursue work and training overseas.

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my son, and experimenting with new recipes. My favourite chef is Gordon Ramsay!

Photo of Dr Nicholas Tan

Hi there, Dr Kimberly here.

Welcome again to the Savvy IMG. What to say about myself? In a nutshell I was born in the UK, moved to the Philippines as a teen, completed my medical degree at the University of Santo Tomas, and came back to the UK as an international medical graduate.

I completed my foundation training at UCLH, and secured a highly-coveted Ophthalmology training post in London on my first application.

In 2015, I wrote about my personal experience of returning to the UK as an overseas qualified doctor in a BMA blog post. I also wrote 2 guides dedicated to IMGs that were published in the BMJ Careers section. Since then I’ve felt we could be doing more to help fellow IMGs so we created The Savvy IMG.

Following the birth our son, I’ve now moved into this role full-time allowing me to dedicate myself to helping more IMGs reach their goals! 🙂

My BMJ & BMA articles

The Savvy IMG Talks & Interviews

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