Odyssey Recruitment

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At a Glance - China

It can be difficult to know where to start when planning a move overseas, especially if you aren’t fully sure where your future could lie. That’s why our latest Odyssey Exclusive series ‘At a Glance’ will help provide you with a quick overview of each location we work with, to help you decide if a move to the country could be worth pursuing. Article Six - China Where is it? China is such a vast country that the distance from London varies greatly. The capital, Beijing, is just over 5,000 miles away however, and there are plenty of regular flights available from Heathrow - with a travel time of just under ten hours. Despite tts size, getting about China isn’t too difficult. The major cities all have outstanding public transport systems, whilst exploring further afield locations can easily be done via plenty of regular (well priced) flights. How is Healthcare Structured? China’s healthcare system has developed and changed drastically over the past two decades, with increasing immigration and the country’s rapidly growing wealth helping to shape a futureproof model. Healthcare is mainly hospital focused in China, with patients usually going directly to specialists for support. As with most other locations, the market is split into public and private facilities, however the public sector is not as attractive to expats. Almost all expats (and a sizeable chunk of the new Chinese middle class) will have private health insurance, and this provides them with access to an ever-growing market of high quality facilities. China is keen to reach the highest standard possible in healthcare, and there is a growing Western presence in the market. Many of these new ventures are actively seeking experienced Western medics to help build departments. This, combined with attractive salaries and an opportunity to experience a new culture, makes a move very attractive to medical professionals keen to leave a legacy. What will I need? We have plenty of opportunities on offer in China at the moment, for Consultants and medics looking to lead departments. All the roles have unique criteria, but most will look for: A Medical degree from a WHO approved school Western residency (UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa etc) Ideally at least five years experience Board certification or specialist registration Under the age of 60 The enthusiasm to make a lasting impact What are the positives? An opportunity to shape healthcare for the future Great for career progression A fascinating local culture Safe surroundings Good job security Incredible modern facilities What are the negatives? Tax rates make a move less financially rewarding than the Gulf Heavily developed busy cities aren’t for everyone Air pollution in Beijing is a serious issue The cost of living can be high in the major expat hubs Current Roles We’ve got plenty on offer in China on our website, here are three of the most popular. Chief of Dentistry Emergency Medicine Consultant Director of Thoracic Surgery

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13% of Diabetics in Saudi Undiagnosed

Saudi Arabia has been named as the world’s largest market for diabetes, with a quarter of the population now battling the condition according to a new WHO survey. The World Health Organisation report shows that Diabetes is now becoming a modern day epidemic in the Desert Kingdom, with unhealthy diets and a lack of exercise leading to rates soaring. Even more concerningly it’s estimated 13% of people with type-2 Diabetes remain undiagnosed, putting them at a far greater risk of developing heart disease, kidney issues and a problems with their vision. New techniques that go beyond simply lowering glucose levels are now being looked at, with a focus also placed on lowering blood pressure and stabilising weight loss. Speaking about the opening of a three day educational program focused on the issue, Chairman of the Saudi Scientific Diabetes Society, Professor Abdulrahman Al Sheikh, said: “Early combination therapy with Dapagliflozin and Metformin is an appropriate treatment option that enables those with T2 Diabetes to achieve individualized glycaemic goals, either as initial combination therapy in treatment-naive patients or as Dapagliflozin add-on in patients inadequately controlled with Metformin therapy.” Are you an Endorcrinologist who could help Saudi Arabia in its battle with Diabetes? Register on our website today for job alerts. A life changing move could be far closer than you might imagine.

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New Zealand: Rural Mental Health Rates Soaring

Young Maoris living in rural New Zealand are at a significantly higher risk of developing mental health issues than any other group in the country. According to new figures published during Mental Health Awareness Week, 70% of Kiwis have felt their stress levels increasing over the past five years - with this figure rising to a remarkable 85% for those between the ages of 18 and 39. Perhaps even more worryingly however 56% of those surveyed do not feel prepared to talk about their mental health concerns, with half of that group putting this down to the stigma that still exists.. This stigma also explained why rates for Maoris, where traditional attitudes remain widely held, were so high. 13/41 (31%) of suicides in New Zealand’s rural Northland were Maoris, despite this group making up just 14% of the total population. A combination of traditional attitudes and a lack of access to mental health support in more rural locations is proving deadly, with young Kiwi men - especially Maoris - having one of the highest suicide rates in the Western world. That has prompted medical innovator and mental health campaigner, Dr Lance O’Sullivan, to speak out. He said: “It’s no secret New Zealand is in the midst of a mental health epidemic, and this is a reminder that the effects of this are widespread. “The shortage of mental health professionals across the board, means that there is no quick fix, however, mental health resources are increasingly being accessed remotely via online platforms or mobile applications. “If people are experiencing negative emotions or feeling isolated, they should always reach out to a trusted party, whether that be someone they know or a health professional. People should know that they’re not alone.” Could you help New Zealand in its battle with mental illness? Register on our website today for the latest job alerts - a life changing move could be far closer than you might imagine.

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Saudi Requires 178,000 More Beds by 2050

Saudi Arabia could require more than 178,000 new hospital beds by 2050 to cope with a growing and ageing population. According to a comprehensive new report published by Colliers International, longer life expectancies, rocketing rates of obesity and diabetes and an estimated 19 million births over the next 32 years present the Kingdom’s sector with a real challenge for the future. Estimates suggest that Saudi healthcare leaders will now need to raise between $23.6bn and $37.3bn to bring the country in line with the global average of 2.7 beds per 1,000 people. To help prepare for the changes, the report’s authors recommend targeting the region’s changing demographics. Over the next 20 years the ‘babyboomers’ will be replaced by generation X, Y. Z as the largest group. Disease patterns will change with the demographics, with this group more likely to suffer from chronic conditions and cardiovascular issues. This has prompted the report too call for the more introduction of more long-term care facilities, and centres of excellence focused on areas like Ophthalmology, Cosmetic Surgery and Sports Injury management. Mansoor Ahmed, Director of Healthcare, Education and Public/Private Partnership at Colliers International, said: ““Healthcare providers and professionals are grappling with several challenges concurrently, such as patients becoming customers and the patientcare transitioning from ‘fee for quality’ rather than ‘fee for service’. “Coupled with new compliance requirements that aim at growing wellness and prevention whilst ensuring better coordination and efficiency, we hope we can add depth and complexity to an increasingly competitive marketplace.” Healthcare in Saudi Arabia looks set to continue to grow to cope with demands outlined in the report, and that’s great news for anyone thinking of a move to the country. For more information, and job alerts register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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Hypertension Awareness in the UAE

Almost half of residents in the United Arab Emirates aren’t aware of the dangers caused by high blood pressure. In a survey co-published by Dubai Health Authority, 45% of more than 1,000 respondents did not classify high blood pressure as a serious health issue, whilst 44% were unaware that it could be fatal. Perhaps even more concerningly 47% of people surveyed weren’t aware of the symptoms of high blood pressure, with this especially high among Emiratis (61%) and those between the ages of 18 and 24 (58%). Estimates currently suggest that over 30% of those living in the Emirates currently have high blood pressure, and this figure is continuing to rise sharply. To help raise awareness of the issue, Dubai Health Authority has launched a new three year ‘Heart Your Heart’ initiative, aimed at increasing understanding around cardiovascular health. As well as a range of outreach methods, the initiative will also connect with medics and insurance providers to implement wide-ranging tests for hypertension - to catch the condition at a stage where it is easier to manage. Despite a slowdown in the global oil price, the UAE remains committed to ensuring that it is home to world leading standards in healthcare. For more information, and the latest job alerts, register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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At a Glance - Bahrain

It can be difficult to know where to start when planning a move overseas, especially if you aren’t fully sure where your future could lie. That’s why our latest Odyssey Exclusive series ‘At a Glance’ will help provide you with a quick overview of each location we work with, to help you decide if a move to the country could be worth pursuing. Article Four - Bahrain Where is it? Bahrain is an island in the Gulf, linked to Saudi Arabia by the staggering 16 mile long King Fahd Causeway. It is often referred to as the Gulf’s jewel in the crown, with its small size ensuring that it gets a cooling coastal breeze. It’s also one of the most liberal nations in the Gulf, making a move a gentle introduction to life in the region. Regular, cheap flights can have you in Dubai or Abu Dhabi within an hour and a half, whilst London is just over six hours away - with plenty of regular flights available with both British Airways and Gulf Air. How is Healthcare Structured? Recent statistics show that the healthcare system - which is one of the best funded in the Gulf region - is enjoying a great deal of success. Life as a medic within the Bahraini healthcare system is far removed from the lifestyle endured by many working in the NHS. Akin to the National Health Service the state system is free at the point of need for Bahraini nationals (and heavily subsidised for expats), unlike in Britain however these people only make up around 46% of the total population. When combined with the small population this means that the healthcare system in the country is rarely stretched beyond its means. Funding for the system is also generous, far more so than in most European countries. This ensures that hospitals are not understaffed, doctors and specialists aren’t overworked and a healthy work/life balance is achieved. One of the main reasons that many people give for wanting to escape from the NHS is the ever growing paperwork and bureaucracy that prevents them from doing what they love - working with patients. In Bahrain this isn’t an issue, with hospitals having administrative departments who deal with the limited paperwork. This can allow medics to focus on clinical care, working with the state of the art equipment within the hospitals to treat patients. What will I need? The criteria will change on a job-by-job basis, but most employers will look for the following: A medical degree from a WHO approved medical school Completion of a Western residency programme Board certification from a Western country: USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, France, South Africa etc At least one year of experience post specialist training Fluency in English What are the positives? Generous tax-free salaries A traditional island lifestyle A central location Lower cost of living than the UAE A friendly local population What are the negatives? Still not as liberal as the West The summer heat can be oppressive The modern skyscrapers can create an artificial feel

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Australia Unlikely to Hit WHO Target

Calls for a ‘Sugar Tax’ and other tougher legislation have grown in Australia, as the country attempts to fight the growing burden of chronic disease. New figures have shown that the country is now unlikely to hit World Health Organisation targets for Chronic Disease by its 2030 goal, with women set to be more than a decade late in reducing the number of deaths from chronic disease by a third. With one in ten countries reporting a rise in the number of deaths from cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes, calls from strong legislation (such as a ‘Sugar Tax’) are now back on the agenda. Implemented in more than 20 countries including the UK, Mexico and South Africa, the sugar tax results in a drop of almost 10% of annual consumption of sugary beverages. Speaking to the Royal Australia College of GPs, Public Policy Director at Australia’s Cancer Council, Paul Grogan, said: “Sugary drinks are one of the starkest examples of a widely known product of no nutritional basis marketed to people at risk of other chronic diseases. “Australia is a world leader in tobacco control as a result of government action, but you can perform very well in one area and poorly in another. “Nutrient-poor food is widely promoted like never before - and that’s a matter governments can act on.” Australia remains a hugely popular location with medics seeking a more rewarding career overseas. This is especially true for General Practitioners who feel overworked and undervalued in the NHS. For more information on how to secure a move, register on our website today. A dream role could be closer than you might imagine.

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Where is the World's Most Efficient Healthcare System?

Singapore has once again been named as one of the world’s most efficient healthcare systems, with Australia and the United Arab Emirates also securing places in the top five. Bloomberg’s Annual Healthcare Efficiency Report for 2018 studied more than 200 countries with populations above five million, and scored each based on the value for money of the healthcare outcomes achieved. Hong Kong topped the report, with a high life expectancy of 84.3 being recorded - despite just 5.7% of GDP Per Capita income being spent on medical care. Singapore followed, with Spain, Italy and South Korea rounding out the top five - albeit more than 16% behind the leading duo. Elsewhere Australia jumped two places to eighth position, despite showing the highest average cost in the top ten. The UAE meanwhile dropped a position to tenth, but notably remained above Norway, Switzerland and France. Despite worryingly high youth suicide rates, New Zealand remained 15th, albeit with a life expectancy that was over a year lower than near-neighbour Australia. Canada also remained in a stable position - 16th - some 39 places above the United States. China dropped by one to 20th, with the country’s slowly increasing life expectancy still below many other Asian locations. Despite the UAE’s strong performance it wasn’t all good news for the Gulf, with Saudi Arabia falling behind Germany into 46th position. Chile (-23), the Dominican Republic (-15) and the United Kingdom (-14) showed the biggest drops, whilst Thailand (+14) and Norway (+9) demonstrated the greatest improvements in efficiency. For more information on how to secure a move to any of the countries mentioned register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine.

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At a Glance - Canada

It can be difficult to know where to start when planning a move overseas, especially if you aren’t fully sure where your future could lie. That’s why our latest Odyssey Exclusive series ‘At a Glance’ will help provide you with a quick overview of each location we work with, to help you decide if a move to the country could be worth pursuing. Article Three - Canada Where is it? Canada is located just over 3,800 miles from London - across the Atlantic Ocean, bordering the USA to the South and Alaska and Greenland to the North. The country is vast, and at more than 9.98 million km² it’s second only to Russia in terms of size. Despite this, the population is small and focused mainly around the major cities - with smaller rural towns scattered throughout the various provinces. Travel time is something you’ll need to adapt to, with the Canadian perspective of distance somewhat different to that in Britain. Expect a ‘short drive’ to last up to three hours! How is Healthcare Structured? The Canadian Healthcare system is similar to Britain’s National Health Service. A portion of the budget is provided by the national government, with a further payment being made by an employer or employee - in a similar way to the UK’s National Insurance system. Unlike in the UK however further funding is provided by the federal government. This combined approach ensures that the contributions from citizens can be lower than it is in the United Kingdom, despite the total funding actually being greater. Whilst this is a noticeable difference between healthcare in Canada and the UK, it’s not the only one. In Canada all healthcare providers are private, this means that (unlike the UK) pay for medics is not determined countrywide. Doctors also claim directly to the insurer when people use the country's healthcare system (known as Medicare) to cover the costs. This results in a healthcare system which is far more successful than many others, especially the United States’ which demands a far greater amount of funding. What will I need? The criteria will change on a job-by-job basis, but most employers will look for the following: A medical degree from a WHO approved medical school Completion of a Western residency programme Board certification from a Western country: USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, France, South Africa etc Eligibility for registration with the Canadian college in your area Fluency in English (and, in some areas, French) What are the positives? A welcoming and friendly local population High quality medical facilities A safe environment, and very low crime rate Little culture shock for Westerners Stunning scenery What are the negatives? The distances make travelling time-consuming The cost of living can be high Extreme weather conditions - especially in Winter Wages aren’t tax-free, and so a move to the Gulf is more financially rewarding Current Opportunities We’ve got a couple of openings in Canada at the moment Consultant Internist Anaesthetist

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Australian GP's Reveal Most Common Issue

Patients in Australia are talking to their GPs about mental health more than any other issue, according to this year’s RACGP Health of the Nation Report. Published this week, the report showed another small rise in the percentage of patients seeking psychological support from their GP (from 61% to 62%), with respiratory conditions remaining the second biggest area of conversation - despite dropping by 10% over the past year. Elsewhere a rise was reported in the number of people seeking support for endocrine conditions, whilst the pregnancy rate remains level at 14%. Some of the most fascinating information related to emerging health issues, where GPs were asked what their biggest health concerns for the future were. Out of 85 different responses, mental health was the most common, followed by obesity, diabetes, ageing care and drug addiction. The report also examined the gender balance, both in terms of the GP sectors makeup, and the different health conditions most frequently brought to professionals of different genders. Female GPs - who make up 45% of the system - were far more likely to work with patients who had mental health issues than males, whilst for the third consecutive year the number of GPs trained overseas remained above those trained in Australia and New Zealand. Across all indicators GPs are largely satisfied with all areas of their employment, with the freedom they are given to choose their own working methods scoring especially highly. Overall more than 90% of those responding to the report said that they were ‘satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’ in their job. GPs are always in high demand in Australia, meaning that job opportunities for Western trained medics are readily available. For more information, and to secure your dream role ‘down under’ today, register on our website. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine.

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Singapore - Project Silver Screen

Singapore’s Ministry of Health has launched a new screening programme focusing on those over the age of 60. Known as ‘Project Silver Screen’, the new campaign will provide free or subsidised screening for hearing, eyesight and oral issues to the country’s growing elderly population. The cost will range from S$2 to S$5 per person, with the pioneer generation - those born before 1950 - being given complimentary access to thank them for their contribution to society. By making screening more readily available to the elderly, the Singaporean Government hope that they can identify potential issues at an early stage - to ensure that the best possible outcomes can be met. Likewise, research compiled by John Hopkins University has shown the links between issues with hearing and other problems like falls - potentially increasing the strain on the country’s healthcare sector. In the small amount of screening carried out so far, almost 50% of people had issues with their vision, a third had dental problems and 70% had at least mild hearing loss. Following diagnosis a voucher scheme will allow patients between S$15 (£8) and S$200 (£110) off a range of equipment - such as glasses, dentures and hearing aids. Speaking at the launch event for the new campaign, Health Minister Gan Kim Yong, said: “Through the functional screenings we hope to be able to detect their conditions early to prevent early deterioration. This way, we will be able to help our seniors stay healthy and stay well longer. “Beyond chronic conditions, we are also concerned about how to help them maintain their functional abilities so that they can remain active.” Job opportunities in Singapore are scarce and highly sought after. To put yourself in the best possible position to secure one, register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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Suicide Rates in New Zealand Continue to Rise

Health authorities in New Zealand are being urged to do more to combat skyrocketing suicide rates. The calls came during World Suicide Prevention Day last week, where it was revealed that the number of Kiwis taking their own lives had risen by 10% - to 660 - by June this year. Those represent the highest figures since records started being kept in 2007, with the country’s Health Minster, David Clark, describing the new statistics as; “upsetting, sobering and cause for further reflection.” Despite the figures already being worryingly high, experts have warned that they may actually be even greater - with a great number of cases remaining unreported. Despite plenty of effort to normalise mental illness, a stigma still remains - especially amongst young people, the elderly and the Maori community - where people may lack the confidence to seek professional help. President of the Association of Mental Health Councillors, Bev Webers, highlighted what she believes would help reduce the stigma. She said: "You go and have a check-up on your car, you get your warrant of fitness. You have a check-up on your body, make sure it's alright, we would like to see that it becomes part of what we do for our mental wellness.

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Saudi Healthcare Sector Largest in the Region

Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector is now the largest in the Middle East according to a senior minister in the Kingdom. Speaking at the official opening of Riyadh’s World Health Forum, Health Minister, Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, announced that the sector is now worth in excess of SR150bn - around $40bn - thanks to a healthy mix of internal and external funding. Al-Rabiah was quick to point out that the sector couldn’t afford to standstill however, with the Desert Kingdom reaching a crucial stage in its history. An ageing population, a rise in chronic conditions, and the increasing cost of healthcare globally have all combined to ensure that future generations have a challenge on their hands to continue the positive trend. Further to this, the Kingdom finds itself in a situation where it drastically needs more trained medical professionals to help deal with the changing demands of the population. It hopes that increasingly liberal laws can help attract more highly trained staff, whilst various incentives and education plans have been introduced aimed at extolling the virtues of leading a healthy lifestyle. A comprehensive restructuring programme of both public and private healthcare facilities is also set to be introduced, aimed at restoring governance in the sector. Al-Rabiah commented: “This will enable the ministry to focus on its fundamental role in formulating policies and legislations as well as to enact laws and regulations to guarantee the quality and standard of the health services.” If you would like to help Saudi Arabia as it continues to grow and develop register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine.

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Tuberculosis Awareness in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates is launching a new nationwide campaign to help educate people about the dangers of tuberculosis. Two years ago the Emirates loosened residency restrictions for people entering the country with the condition, and those with previous scars. The previous restrictions had seen a rapid drop from 4.2 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2000 to just 0.79 per 100,000. Now a campaign is being introduced with the aim of eradicating the condition totally. Based mainly in the Northern Emirates of Dubai and Sharjah it aims to highlight that TB remains an issue, educating people on the symptoms to watch out for - and pointing out the importance of quick detection. Director of Preventative Medicine at the Ministry of Health and Prevention, Dr Nada Al Marzouqi, said: ““The strategies focus on familiarising individuals with the preventive and therapeutic procedures taken by the ministry in cooperation with health institutions and health service providers in the state. “Our main aim is to educate the public about the need to commit to and complete the treatment with appropriate preventive measures to avoid the transmission of infection." For more information on moving to the United Arab Emirates, register on our website today. A dream role could be closer than you might imagine.

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King's College Grow in Dubai

King’s College Hospital have officially opened their new facility in Dubai’s stunning marina - the first in the area which will work to NHS standards. The London based group already run a flagship facility in Abu Dhabi, as well as a smaller clinic in Dubai, however the new medical centre represents a big step forward for their presence in the Emirates. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Director General of Dubai Health Authority, Humaid Al-Qatami, said: “The DHA is keen to support private sector investment, and such reputed centres with decades of experience and expertise help provide the population in Dubai with high-quality health care services. “Investment in the private health sector has witnessed sustained growth, and the DHA recently launched a health investment strategy, with the aim of promoting Dubai as a viable and competitive hub for need-based investment in healthcare.” Whilst newly appointed CEO of the hospital, Christian Schuhmacher, added: “Our utilisation results over the past year of other KCH facilities in the UAE not only demonstrate KCH’s unwavering commitment to healthcare in the UAE, but also show the real progress we are making in delivering evidence-based healthcare.” Schumacher was also keen to highlight one of the main aims of the new facility - to provide the most financially efficient standard of care. He continued: “Through only treating and prescribing what is scientifically necessary, we are ensuring that we are continually offering the most cost effective treatment options for our patients.” Is a move to the United Arab Emirates something which would appeal to you? Register on our website for job alerts - and start your odyssey today.

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At a Glance - Saudi Arabia

It can be difficult to know where to start when planning a move overseas, especially if you aren’t fully sure where your future could lie. That’s why our latest Odyssey Exclusive series ‘At a Glance’ will help give you a quick overview of each location we work with, to help you decide if a move to the country could be worth pursuing. Article Two - Saudi Arabia Where is it? Saudi Arabia is located 3,800 miles from London in the heart of the Middle East. It’s a vast country with more than 800 miles separating the Western city of Mecca from the Eastern Province and areas like Dammam. The size also means that Saudi has land borders with a whole host of countries: Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, The UAE, Oman and Yemen. There are regular flights from the UK, with a travel time of between six and eight hours depending on your end location. How is Healthcare Structured? It comes as a surprise to many that the healthcare system in Saudi is similar to Britain's NHS, albeit without National Insurance contributions. It is also supported by an ever expanding private sector, which caters for mainly the expat population as well as wealthy Saudi natives. The majority of hospitals are operated by the Ministry of Health. It runs 270 throughout the country as well as over 1000 health centres and clinics. Care is provided free of charge at the point of need for citizens, and this covers everything from GP appointments to specialist, complex surgery. There are obviously a few notable differences, mainly who the MOH care for. The Ministry of Health has 3 sub departments who care for separate groups of the population, running separate hospitals, clinics and health centres. These are MODA, MOI and SANG hospitals. MODA hospitals care for those in the Ministry of Defence and Aviation, MOI for those employed in the interior ministry and SANG facilities are for those in the Saudi National Guard. The 3 main offshoots from the MOH are joined by a few autonomous government agencies who deliver healthcare to various groups in Saudi society - including students and people with severe learning disabilities. Ministry of Health facilities are well funded, with the pressure that the system could potentially find itself under from the expat community lifted by an increasingly large private sector. Currently the private system runs 127 hospitals, and hundreds more clinics and centres. Job opportunities within the private sector are becoming more widespread but remain hugely sought after due to higher pay, despite usually offering fewer incentives than government facilities. What will I need? The criteria will change on a job-by-job basis, but most employers will look for the following: A medical degree from a WHO approved medical school Certification from a Western country: USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Sweden or equivalent A minimum of three years experience as a Consultant Fluency in English A clean medical license No malpractice claims What are the positives? High salaries, no income tax and a low cost of living makes a move very rewarding financially A unique cultural experience An easy going, slow pace of life A sizeable and friendly expat community Plenty of additional incentives within salary packages Increasingly liberal laws and rules What are the negatives? The heat can be stifling, especially in the summer Plenty of historical rules remain in place Segregation between men and women is still widespread There is little entertainment - with no cinemas or theatres outwith compounds Smaller hospitals and clinics often aren’t to the required standards Current Opportunities We’ve got a vast range of openings in Saudi Arabia - here are a few that might be of interest. Consultant Spinal Surgeon - Al Khobar Consultant Ophthalmologist - Jeddah Consultant General Surgeon - Jeddah

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Almost 70% of Aussie Women Suffering Anxiety

Almost 70% of women in Australia have reported feeling nervous or anxious within the past month, whilst 46% have already been diagnosed with a mental illness such as depression or anxiety. Those were some of the standout findings in a survey of more than 15,000 women that was published last week, with the ‘Sandwich Generation’ identified as the group at most risk of developing mental health issues. The ‘Sandwich Generation’ are women who currently find themselves juggling two very different issues: On one hand they may have a young family, whilst on the other they’re having to deal with elderly parents - and the accompanying health conditions that come with age. Despite the concerning headline statistics, Australian women are now smoking less and exercising more than ever before. Despite this however more than half (50.8%) still described themselves as overweight or obese. The rise in prevalence of mental health conditions even came as a surprise to researchers, with busier than ever lifestyles blamed for the sharp growth. According to the report 34% of respondents didn’t get any time to themselves in a normal week, and Janet Michelmore, Director of the Jean Hailes for Women's Health Foundation, who carried out the survey, was quick to point out where she believes the issues could stem from. She said: “Women are trying to do too much or they think they're expected to do so much. “I think social media plays a part in this, whatever you see on social media is the perfect look. I've never seen anyone looking bedraggled or grumpy. “I think women are great supporters and great nudgers of other people, and what we hope this survey will do is give women a gentle but firm nudge to take greater care of themselves. “Take time to put yourself first, make sure you know about your health, know what the risks are and appreciate that small changes have big rewards.” Could you help Australia in the country’s battle with mental illness? Register on our website today - and start your odyssey to a more rewarding career.

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At a Glance...Australia

It can be difficult to know where to start when planning a move overseas, especially if you aren’t fully sure where your future could lie. That’s why our latest Odyssey Exclusive series ‘At a Glance’ will help give you a quick overview of each location we work with, to help you decide if a move to the country could be worth pursuing. Article One - Australia Where is it? Australia is located more than 9,000 miles from the United Kingdom in Oceania. The country itself dominates the continent, with only New Zealand vaguely comparable in terms of size and lifestyle. Travel time from London to Sydney is around 22 hours - with a stop over, whilst even visiting relatively close neighbours like Malaysia can take over eight hours on a flight. How is Healthcare Structured? The healthcare system in Australia is split into public and private facilities - just like it is in the United Kingdom. The public system is funded by a combination of the government - who dedicate 9.4% of the country's total GDP to it (a figure fractionally greater than the that of the UK) - and the people of the country, who contribute through a 2% levy known as ‘Medisave’ on their income. This combination ensures that the publicly funded healthcare system in Australia is financially secure. Incentives are also in place to encourage the use of the private system and ensure that the state system does not find itself overrun and underfunded. Perhaps the most notable of these incentives is the Private Health Insurance Rebate (PHIR). Under this scheme ‘Medicare’ makes a contribution towards your healthcare costs based on your earnings and age. The percentage increases as you get older, and decreases as you earn more ensuring that it helps out those who are most in need. PHIR allows the healthcare system to focus more on the quality of care it provides instead of the quantity of patients who pass through the doors. It ensures that, unlike the NHS, the state system is not overworked, creating a far less stressful working environment for medics. What will I need? The criteria will change on a job-by-job basis, but most employers will look for the following: A medical degree from a WHO approved medical school Completion of Residency in a Western country (UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa) CCT or equivalent A clean medical license Fluency in English A clean criminal record What are the positives? Australia’s healthy work/life balance is envied worldwide A well organised, financed and structured healthcare system Little culture shock for Westerners, especially from the UK/US and Canada It can be more financially rewarding, with better basic salaries Good job security The country is naturally stunning An active lifestyle is promoted and easy to maintain thanks to great weather and plenty of sports facilities What are the negatives? Australia can feel extremely remote, with few countries nearby Even travelling internally can be extremely time consuming Salaries aren’t as high as in the Gulf Food and utility bills are higher than in Europe Current Opportunities We’ve got a few openings in Australia, here are some of the best. General Practioner Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Director of Emegency Medicine

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Ageing Health in Singapore

Singaporeans over the age of 60 should live longer healthier lives thanks to a range of new initiatives. Announced last week by the country’s Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, to mark Singapore’s national day, elderly people can expect to enjoy more subsidised healthcare, greater access to polyclinics and exclusive packages only available to those over the age of 60. Known as ‘Mordeka’, the new package is only available to those born between 1950 and 1959, and will provide top-ups to existing health insurance funds, as well as payments that will help to meet the cost of long-term care. Polyclinics are also set to grow to help meet the changing demands of an ageing population, with six new facilities set to open across the city by the start of 2023. Speaking as he announced the news, Prime Minister Loong said: “We want all Singaporeans to have access to affordable, high-quality healthcare. “By opening new polyclinics we will make sure there is affordable, accessible, high-quality primary care throughout Singapore. “I think we especially owe something to the independence generation.” Job opportunities in Singapore are rare and highly sought after. To put yourself in the best position to secure one, register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine.

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Rare Surgery in Ras-Al-Khamaih

Medics at RAK Hospital in the UAE successfully restored the vision of a patient suffering from Optic Neuritis following complex, rare surgery. Neuromyelitis optica as the condition is officially known is an uncommon issue, affecting a patient's spinal chords and optic nerves. The symptoms can vary on a case-by-case basis, but commonly include eye pain, shooting pains in the legs and in severe cases intermittent loss of vision. In this example the patient, a diabetic, also suffered from Positive Anti MOG syndrome, leaving his eyes resistant to antibiotics, and creating further complications. This made the pain even more severe, whilst the patient also found himself regularly losing the vision in both eyes. As a result surgery was the only option. Dr Sweta Adatia, Consultant Neurologist who carried out the surgery, explained the challenges she faced. She said: “Being diabetic and having the presence of anti MOG positive antibodies created several issues in the patient, including his inconsistent response to steroids and constant fluctuation in sugar levels. “Tapering high dosage of steroids, essential for the treatment, immediately led to repeated attacks, while other immune therapies didn’t help either. “There have only been a few hundred such cases recorded so far where the patient with Optic Neuritis was found positive for the MOG antibody, causing the condition to relapse despite treatment with steroids and other immunosuppressive agents. “This obviously meant we hardly had any evidential data to support us during the treatment plan. However, despite encountering several obstacles, we were eventually successful in stabilising the attacks with the help of pulsed steroid therapy while maintaining the regular oral steroids.” The United Arab Emirates remains one of the most popular locations with expats seeking a more rewarding career overseas. For more information on how to secure your move, and job alerts, register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine.

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5 Things to Prepare for in Canada

Canada has always attracted a steady stream of expats, especially those from the UK and elsewhere in Western Europe. A friendly culture, a range of job opportunities and stunning scenery make it a favourite, but there are plenty of things to prepare for before committing to a move. Five Things to Prepare for in Canada 1 - Distance Canada is enormous, and the sheer size of the country comes as a shock to many people. Placed on a map Canada would stretch from the United Kingdom to Turkmenistan, and between Spain and the Gulf of Finland. This makes travelling between provinces time consuming, and the Canadians have a totally different sense of distance to anyone else - meaning a ‘short drive’ could be up to five hours! It also means that the country has numerous different identities, with each province having a unique character and culture. Make sure that you research the area you’re moving to thoroughly, and don’t just assume that all of Canada is very similar. 2 - Weather Canada’s weather can be extreme - though this isn’t the case everywhere in the country. In certain areas of Newfoundland temperatures can change from summer averages of 20°C, to winter temperatures of -9°C. It’s far from the most extreme area though. January average highs in Manitoba are -21.9°C, whilst summer averages are almost 20°C in the positive. Basically what we’re saying is pack a wide range of clothes. From heavy winter jackets to light shorts and t-shirts. 3 - Lengthy Recruitment Process Canada is very strict about who it allows in, with all documents needing to be thoroughly checked and verified prior to a working visa being granted. The system in the country is well organised, and things do move efficiently, but having your documentation prepared and organised prior to applying is a must. In some cases hospitals may be able to expedite the visa process, so it’s always worth enquiring with them about how urgently they require you to start. 4 - Taxes What you see is what you get...Except in Canada what you see on the price ticket won’t be what you pay. The Canadian tax system differs depending on what province your in. Sales taxes are just 5% in Alberta, but almost 15% in Quebec. So be prepared for a quirk of Canadian taxes, the price shown on shop labels is always excluding VAT - to allow for the same base product prices nationwide, with the tax differences adding on at the till. This can be annoying at first, however in no time at all you’ll find yourself being able to work out percentages as you shop! 5 - Language French and English are both official languages of Canada, and most Canadians will have a fluent grasp of one, and a working knowledge of the other. English is the most widely spoken language, however in Quebec almost 80% of people used French as a first language. On top of this various dialects are spoken throughout the provinces that can sometimes make English feel like a foreign language! Is a move to Canada something which would interest you? We’ve got a small number of jobs available in the country, meaning that a dream move could be far closer than you might imagine. Register on our website to start your Odyssey today.

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School Dental System Requires an Overhaul in New Zealand

New Zealand’s school dental system requires a radical overhaul, with more than 100 children having teeth removed every day. According to the New Zealand Dental Association more than 96,000 schoolchildren are overdue check-ups, leading to almost 30,000 extractions in school age children last year alone. Speaking at the association’s conference last weekend, president, Dr Bill O’Connor, highlighted just how concerned he is about the issue. He told delegates: “Today, 120 young Kiwi kids will have teeth extracted. Why have they not been treated before they got to this point? “The system has failed these children and their parents, and the system has failed those who work in it, trying to deliver the best outcomes for their patients. “Children don't get to choose what they eat or drink, they don't choose to have rotten teeth and the pain and suffering that comes with that. "They don't choose to live in areas that are woefully unable to meet the treatment needs of the population “It's time to look after our kids.” In response National Clinical Director for Oral Health, Riana Clarke, said: “15% of children were overdue for appointments with the Community Oral Health Service, which falls below our targets. “We are continuing to work with District Health Boards to reduce the number of overdue appointments.” Based on this we can expect to see a rise in the number of dentistry positions available in New Zealand, so register on our website today to get ahead of the rest. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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Fewer Patients Leaving UAE for Medical Care

Fewer patients are leaving the UAE for medical care, whilst the number of health tourists visiting the country continues to rise. Those were the major findings from Dubai Health Authority’s 2017 annual statistical report, which illustrated a positive future for healthcare in the Emirates - with the drop in the global oil price not having as big an impact on the sector as initially feared. Treating Emirati patients with complex needs at home has been a long-term aim of the country, and with just over 1,500 people now heading abroad annually, health leaders look to have been successful in addressing the skills shortage forcing locals to look elsewhere. The average cost per patient receiving care overseas has also dropped substantially, from Dh3.12m (£660,000) to Dh2.7m (£570,000). Almost a quarter of those leaving the Emirates for medical care were looking for greater Oncology services, with Neurology the second most popular speciality. That wasn’t the only good news for the area in the report however, with medical tourists now contributing Dh1bn (£212m) to the economy. The UAE is now also on target to treat 500,000 medical tourists by 2020, with people now heading to the Emirates from all over the world. Estimates suggest that reaching that target could be worth more than Dh2.6bn annually to the country - a figure that is expected to grow by 13% each year. The United Arab Emirates - especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi - remains one of the most popular locations we work with. If you believe a move to the country could enhance your career, register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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UAE & Saudi Top Wellbeing Report

People in Saudi Arabia and the UAE are enjoying a higher level of wellbeing than those in the UK, France and even Singapore. In a report published by health insurance giants Cigna, Saudi Arabia and the Emirates scored above the global average, with the report looking at various areas from physical wellbeing to workplace happiness and job satisfaction. More than 14,000 people from 23 countries took part in the survey, which showed a very slight drop in the quality of life in the UAE - mainly owing to higher working hours and a drop in physical health. Some of the most interesting findings related to healthcare however, with 76% of respondents saying that they are in favour of sharing data about their health - if it helps lowers costs, enables early detection and provides better access to suitable care. A high demand for private healthcare was also noted in the UAE, however with only 20% of respondents expecting to have health insurance once they retire the funding of this, especially in Emirates where insurance isn’t compulsory, is an area that will need addressed. There are plenty of attractions to both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. From the opportunity to help shape the future of healthcare to high tax-free salaries, there should be something for everyone. For more information, register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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5 Things to Know About Guangzhou

We’re noticing a steady stream of expats showing interest in moving to China, and with the country developing at an incredible rate that’s hardly a surprise. Many people know about the major hubs of Beijing and (especially) Shanghai, however few people know much about the southern city of Guangzhou which is rapidly developing, and becoming a real favourite with expats. Here are five things to know about China’s ‘Flower City’. 1 - An Ideal Location Guangzhou is located in Southern China, more than 1,400 miles from Shanghai and 2,000 from Beijing. It’s far from isolated though, with ever-popular Hong Kong reachable in under two hours via regular trains, and Macau just a 90 mile drive away. High-speed trains also link the city with Zhuhai, known as the Chinese riviera. 2 - Traditional Charm & Expat Hubs Whether you’re planning on living in a modern skyscraper in the heart of the city or a quieter expat dominated community, Guangzhou can offer both. Tianhe is the most popular expat suburb, located just 20 minutes to the east of the city centre. Liwan and Haizhu are also popular thanks to a large expat community, and a good variety of local restaurants and amenities. For someone seeking a quieter life the neighbourhoods of Panyu and Baiyun offer a good standard of living without as much hustle and bustle as the city. 3 - Shopper’s Paradise Guangzhou is renowned throughout Asia as somewhat of a shopper's paradise. The city is a major hub for the creation of goods, and as a result prices are low and the variety is unlikely to be beaten. Expect a considerably lower cost of living than in Beijing, Shanghai and Macau. It’s also home to some of China’s best shopping malls and supermarkets, making it easy to find Western goods, fresh food and plenty of bargains. 4 - Laid Back Lifestyle China’s major cities are famed for their busy, high intensity lifestyle. In Guangzhou though everything feels a little more laid back. The pace of life is a little slower, and everyone seems more content to actually enjoy life. Walks, parks, restaurants and cultural activities are all more popular than elsewhere, and despite being large the city has more of a homely feel to it when compared to the major hubs. 5 - International Schooling China is famed for how high quality its education system is. Every year attainment levels seem to rise, with education considered by many families to be the single most important factor in a child’s development. As a result it should come as little surprise that China is home to some outstanding international schools. The best are highly sought after however, so make sure to apply and secure your child’s place prior to boarding the plane - to avoid any hold ups or disappointment. Could Guangzhou be the city for you? Register on our website for job alerts today.

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NEW REPORT: Saudi Healthcare Among Most Efficient

Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector has been named as one of the most efficient globally in a new report. Published this month, the Saudi system came in just six points behind world leader Singapore in Royal Philips’ Future Health Index (FHI). The Kingdom was especially praised for the high level of trust placed in the healthcare sector by the general public. Singapore’s score puts it more than 17 points ahead of the global average, with only a below average number of beds for the size of population marking it down. Of the five outcomes, Saudi’s sector impressed with the high quality outcomes achieved for patients, the lower than average costs and waste, high levels of patient satisfaction and a high quality patient experience. The report also highlighted a major area which will need to develop to keep up with the demands of the modern patient - healthcare technology. Data collection will play a key role in this, with the Desert Kingdom falling below average on indicators around the use of data analytics to boost healthcare effectiveness. Despite this however CEO of Philips’ in the MET region, Ozlem Fidanci, said: “The index results confirm the Kingdom’s e-health strategy is a pivotal pillar in the future for improving and managing people’s health. “The FDI offers a meaningful measure that helps countries like Saudi Arabia identify their immediate needs and readiness for artificial intelligence tools to become a part of the patient journey.” Is a move to Saudi Arabia something which would interest you? We’ve got a large range of exciting opportunities on offer on our website. So have a browse and apply today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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Five Attractions of Saudi Arabia

Making a move is about much more than simply boosting your earnings or challenging yourself professionally. It also gives you the opportunity to explore a new part of the world. That’s a major attraction for many of the expats we work with, so in our new series we’re going to look at five major attractions to some of our most popular locations. Part 4 - Five Attractions of Saudi Arabia Read any guide to Saudi Arabia and it’ll immediately mention finances. A move can be extremely rewarding financially, however we’re keen to be a bit different and look at the other reasons for the Desert Kingdom’s popularity. 1 - Changing Attitudes People used to be put off a move to Saudi Arabia by the traditional rules and attitudes that defined the country - and restricted those in it. Things are now changing however, and with the Royal Family keen to encourage more people to the Kingdom, big changes have already been noticed worldwide. Saudi was famous for not allowing women to drive, but that changed in June of this year. Likewise rules around dress codes and music have been relaxed as the country attempts to build a more tourist friendly image. That’s great news for expats, who can secure a move to the Kingdom now, with interest expected to rise exponentially over the next decade. 2 - A Unique Experience Often when people refer to the culture of Saudi Arabia they are speaking about the religion, and it’s true that Islam does dominate everyday life. There are other unique experiences in the country though. Whether it’s enjoying traditional food in the desert, or simply seeing animals transported around in the back of a pick-up truck, Saudi is a location that will leave you with a different story to tell for every day spent there. 3 - Family Life Whilst talk of finances dominates any discussion about a move to Saudi, the positive impact that it can have on your family life is also something that is regularly mentioned. The Saudi lifestyle is built around spending time with your family, so expect shorter than average working hours and plenty of national holidays. There are also plenty of family friendly restaurants and facilities, making the Kingdom ideal for those looking for more family time. 4 - Ideal Location Saudi Arabia isn’t just in the heart of the Gulf region, it’s practically in the middle of the world, making it ideal for travelling around the planet. From Jeddah you can reach Dubai in two hours, India or Paris in five and Australia in 12. You’ll rarely meet someone living in Saudi who isn’t well travelled, with regular well-priced flights available to help you take advantage of the extra time away from the workplace. 5 - Tourism It might seem hard to believe based on stereotypes from the Kingdom, but Saudi Arabia is building a growing list of tourist attractions. Whether it’s one of the country’s World Heritage Sites like Turaif fort, the National Museum in Riyadh or even the new Al Shallal Theme Park, you might be surprised by just how much it has to offer. To start your Odyssey to Saudi Arabia, register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine.

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GP Clinic Psychologists in New Zealand

Psychologists could soon be based in GP clinics in New Zealand, as the country attempts to help ease its mental health crisis. Based at the Kouri Integrated Family Health Centre in Palmerston North, hopes are high that early intervention could be the key in preventing more serious mental health cases from developing. The new pilot scheme is being developed with two major aims; to help people experiencing mild to moderate mental health conditions that could be at risk of escalating, and to help de-stigmatise mental illness. Often people battling mental health conditions experience fear or anxiety when faced with the prospect of asking for specialist help and support, and so by basing a psychologist in the familiar surroundings of a GP’s clinic part of this hurdle should be removed. Speaking about the plan, Clinical Director for Kauri Healthcare, Dr Anna Skinner, said: “It has been amazing to have expert and effective psychological interventions available on the same day to patients with mental health needs, as well as to those with long-term conditions who really benefit from support to acknowledge, accept and manage their complex health conditions.” Is a move to New Zealand something that would interest you? We have plenty of vacancies on offer in the country, with Psychiatrists especially in demand. For more information, and job alerts, register with us today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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Cancer Care Affordability in China

Cancer medication should be more affordable in China from next month thanks to a new agreement. Negotiations between the country’s state medical insurance provider and pharmaceutical companies have almost concluded, with news agencies reporting that treatments for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, Renal Cell Carcinoma and Melanoma are all set to benefit. Since early last year the price of clinically proven but costly medication, such as Bortezomib and Heceptin has dropped, whilst in May taxes of between four and six per-cent were also removed to help ease the financial burden on Cancer patients. For pharmaceutical providers China is one of the world’s biggest markets for Cancer drugs, with $14.9bn spent in 2016 alone - a total that accounts for 18% of global sales. The high cost however has left many Chinese people struggling to survive, with the costs of Cancer treatment often in excess of $24,000 - more than 1.5 times the average salary in the country. China is facing a growing issue with Cancer prevalence, with Breast Cancer rates growing at an average of 3.5% annually, and Lung Cancer figures already amongst the highest on the planet. This makes finding a solution that won’t break the bank all the more critical in ensuring a positive future for patients. If a move to China’s fascinating capital of Beijing, or expat hub of Shanghai is something that would appeal to you, register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine.

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New Report Praises Healthcare in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates offers patients the best healthcare in the Middle East according to a new report. Mandatory health insurance and the use of the latest Artificial Intelligence technology were given as the major reasons for this success, according to BMI Research’s Middle East Healthcare Access Index. Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman followed the Emirates - perhaps somewhat surprisingly for outsiders given how often these locations are overlooked by medics seeking a move to the region. Key to the UAE’s success however was the way in which it has embraced modern technology to deal with the changing demands of a growing and ageing population. 3D printing and Virtual Reality rehabilitation were noted as being especially progressive in the Emirates, whilst the benefits of an estimated 6.6% annual growth rate in healthcare funding was also highlighted. Speaking about the findings, the report’s authors said: “Innovation in clinical services and the use of new technologies in disease diagnosis and treatment will drive a more patient-centric healthcare system. “Benefits of developments in 3D printing include faster turnaround times, more personalised design and functionality, and greater flexibility in terms of replacements.” If a move to the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait or elsewhere in the Gulf would appeal to you register on our website today. A dream career move could be closer than you might imagine.

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5 Things You Have to Experience in Shanghai

Making a move is about much more than simply boosting your earnings or challenging yourself professionally. It also gives you the opportunity to explore a new part of the world. That’s a major attraction for many of the expats we work with, so in our new series we’re going to look at five things not to miss out on in some of our most popular locations. Part 3 - Five Things You Have to Experience in Shanghai 1 - Go on a Food Tour China is renowned worldwide for its cuisine, and Shanghai is the perfect place to experience authentic Chinese food. The best way to do this is by going on a food tour, these run from the mid-afternoon and allow a local guide to take you round some of the best restaurants in the vast city. From high-class dining to rustic hidden gems. If you’re living in Shanghai it’s an absolute must. 2 - Maglev Train We normally wouldn’t bother recommending public transport, but Shanghai’s incredible Maglev train is quite different. Capable of travelling at speeds in excess of 265mph, the Maglev is an incredible feat of engineering that perfectly sums up just how technologically advanced the city itself is. There’s even a museum looking at the history and future for the levitating railway. 3 - The Old City Whilst Shanghai is known as a modern metropolis with stunning skyscrapers (and fast trains!), there is still plenty of traditional Chinese charm. A small portion of the wall that protected Shanghai from Japanese invaders can still be seen, whilst the winding alleyways and bustling streets feel a world away from the large modern highways. 4 - Jing’an Temple Sticking with the traditional attractions, the city’s Jing’an Temple appears surreal surrounded by modern shopping centres and skyscrapers. Originally constructed in 247AD, it has been moved, rebuilt and even used as a factory during its life - but now stands as a proud monument to China’s past, surrounded by its future. Arguably the most beautiful building in the city it holds a mesmerising charm that shouldn’t be missed. 5 - Shanghai Financial Centre Observation Deck Back to modern Shanghai now, and something that definitely isn’t for someone bothered by heights! Shanghai’s Financial Centre’s observation deck provides unbeatable views from the building’s 100th floor - more than 1,500 feet above the ground! If you want to understand the sheer scale of the city, then nowhere can offer a better perspective.

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NEW REPORT: Saudi Population in Good Health

Almost 95% of the Saudi population are generally in good health, according to a new report published this week. The findings, which covered all 13 provinces in the Kingdom between November and December of last year, found that 94.2% of the population are in good health - with a quarter of people over the age of 15 going for regular medical check-ups. Despite this however the rate of chronic conditions remains high - especially in females over the age of 65. Diabetes was an exception, with the condition affecting roughly one in ten Saudis - mainly men. Rates of Heart Disease were also high, with an estimated 1.14% of the population battling conditions that are closely linked with unhealthy lifestyle choices. On publication of the survey a spokesman for GaStat who compiled it said: “The survey was carried out conforming to international standards adopted by the World Health Organization and the United Nations. The indicators of the study included marriage, fertility, child and maternal health, infant mortality, car accidents and smoking. “The statistics will be the main source of demographic information for preparing development plans in the health and social care sectors at a national level.” Is a move to Saudi Arabia something you’re considering? The Desert Kingdom is one of the most popular locations we work with, register on our website today to avoid missing out on the job of your dreams.

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Have You Considered a Move to Ghana?

Ghana in West Africa is a location that few think about when considering a move overseas. However the country is developing at an impressive rate, and has become one of Africa’s most popular expat hubs. Why is it so popular with expats though? We’ve taken a look at five reasons to consider a move to the country. 1 - Financially Rewarding Finances are probably the single biggest factor attracting people to a new life overseas, and Ghana can offer surprisingly attractive salary packages considering the image of poverty often associated with Africa. Healthy basic salaries can be boosted by high commission rates, with employers also meeting the cost of transport and accommodation to ensure that they attract the highest possible standard of talent. Coupled with a low cost of living, you might be surprised about just how rewarding a move can be. 2 - Kind & Welcoming Population Ghanaians are considered some of the most friendly people on the planet, and their positive, friendly attitude is noticeable throughout the country. It won’t take long to settle into the way of life, and the local population will be only too happy to help show you around. Learning a bit of the local language will also be hugely appreciated - even if you’re far from fluent! 3 - Opportunity to Make a Lasting Impact Healthcare in Ghana is really starting to develop as the country becomes more and more financially prosperous. This gives you the opportunity to be involved in the start of something that could be really special. Bringing Western qualifications and experience to the country will be invaluable, and you could have a major say in the way healthcare in the country is organised for ever. For a medic keen to leave a legacy, a move to Ghana could be ideal. 4 - ‘Easy Africa’ A move to Africa can be extremely daunting, however expats have christened Ghana ‘Easy Africa’ because of how little culture shock they experienced after making a move. Accra is home to many large organisations’ African HQs, meaning that there is a large expat population and plenty of high quality hotels, restaurants and modern developments in the city. Ghana’s also peaceful, with little conflict between different religious groups in the country and neighbouring locations. 5 - Safety As well as being peaceful, Ghana is also one of the safest places in Africa. There is little serious crime and, assuming your savvy on the streets and know the areas to avoid, petty crime levels are also low. This makes it one of the few African countries where it’s safe for an expat and their family to walk the streets - even after dark. To find out more about upcoming roles in Ghana, register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine.

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What's Your Stroke Risk?

Researchers in Ottawa, Canada, have published a new online calculator that can tell people how likely they are to have a stroke within the next four years. Based on data from ‘Statistics Canada’s’ health surveys, the new application calculates a person's risk based on those who have suffered a stroke or other serious cardiovascular condition whilst leading a similar lifestyle. The program asks users to input details about their tobacco and alcohol consumption, fruit and veg intake, underlying health conditions and their height and weight. Powered by the latest ‘Big Data’ technology, the research can also predict how long the user can expect to live, showing the data on a sliding scale based on their estimated heart age. Lead author of the research, Dr Doug Manuel, explained why he believes the new development is truly unique. He said: “We hope this tool can help people and their care team with better information about healthy living and options for reducing their risk of heart attack and stroke. “Doctors will check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, but they don’t necessarily ask about lifestyle factors that could put you at risk of developing heart conditions. “What sets this cardiovascular risk calculator apart is that it looks at healthy living whilst being better calibrated to the Canadian population.” Would you be interested in finding out how at risk you are? You can have a look at your score by using the calculator here. Lifestyle related health conditions are a major issue worldwide, and Canada is no exception. Is this a good idea to help target the issues, or is it just a gimmick that will have no impact on people’s lives? Let us know on our social media channels.

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New Pilot Psychiatry Scheme in New Zealand

New Zealand has announced a new $10 million pilot scheme that will offer free mental health counselling to young people in the country. Youth mental health is a huge issue in New Zealand, with the country’s teenage suicide rate the highest in the developed world. This has been blamed on a ‘toxic mix’ of family violence, bullying and teenage pregnancies. Introduced by the Green Party, the new initiative will mainly target those who have left the security of school and now aren’t sure where to turn for health and support. According to recent statistics 75% of lifelong cases of mental illness started before people turned 25, with a third of Kiwis who seek support being forced to wait for more than three weeks for help. A timescale that may prove too long for some. Clinical psychologist Cath Hunter, told the press about her hopes for the new program. She said: “The age group is more likely to be studying, struggling into work, on low wages or still dependent on family. “In my experience a lot of young people don't want to access a GP or other health professional and there is still a strong stigma attached to telling someone you are not coping. “The most obvious benefit of improved access would be reducing harm, potentially lowering our tragic suicide rate, and halting the development of more persistent mental health conditions, all of which take a much larger toll on family and other health services. “It would also help younger people achieve healthier relationships, less alcohol and drug abuse along.” Could you help New Zealand in its battle with mental illness? We’ve got a range of Psychiatry roles available on our website, meaning a dream move could be closer than you might imagine. Register with us today to start your Odyssey.

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5 Things to Do in Perth, Western Australia

Making a move is about much more than simply boosting your earnings or challenging yourself professionally. It also gives you the opportunity to explore a new part of the world. That’s a major attraction for many of the expats we work with, so in our new series we’re going to look at five things not to miss out on in some of our most popular locations. Part 2 - Five Things You Have to do in Perth, Western Australia 1 - Cruise Swan River The 60km Swan River runs through the heart of Perth, giving you a whole new perspective on the city. There are plenty of ways that you can explore it, but we’d recommend a river cruise. There are plenty of options available, from simple sightseeing tours to luxury dinner and wine-tasting cruises. These are easy to book and there are plenty of websites that can allow you to compare options prior to making a decision. 2 - Bell Tower One of the most unique buildings in Australia, if not the world, the Bell Tower is home to 18 bells built into a stunning glass tower. 12 of these were originally donated by the Queen as a gift to the people of Western Australia from London’s St Martin-in-the-Fields church. Nowadays the building is a hugely popular tourist attraction, which covers the history of the area and provides stunning views across the city from the viewing platform. It’s one not to be missed. 3 - Take a Tour of a Winery Australia is a country famous for its wine, and Perth is one of the biggest wine producers ‘down under’. As a result there are plenty of tours available that help to give you an inside knowledge of how the region produces its most famous export. These are perfect for couples and larger social groups, whilst winerys remain popular events for corporate groups entertaining clients - including private healthcare providers. 4 - Nostalgia Box Museum Perth is home to one of the only interactive video game museums in the world - and the only one in Australia. You might think that this is more suitable for children, but the museum charts the history of games - from the early days of the Atari HomePong and ZX Spectrum to the present day - making it a real trip down memory lane for those of a certain age. 5 - Explore the Sealife Moving on totally from Perth’s newest museum, the city’s clear waters make it perfect for exploring the sealife. Be that by swimming, snorkeling or scuba-diving, the warm climate and large amount of unspoilt coastline makes it one of the world’s best locations for anyone interested in spending their free time in the water. The waters are home to a range of colourful fish, coral and sponges, with many more rural areas being totally untouched by the pollution that threatens to destroy their delicate habitat.

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Soft Skills - The Secret Behind Securing a Dream Role

Being a medic is about much more than just holding the required qualifications. What acts to really set you apart from the rest is the ability to demonstrate the range of ‘soft skills’ you hold, whilst also showing how these have positively impacted on your working environment in the real world. In an increasingly competitive market, it’s often the ability to demonstrate applied soft skills that sets you apart from the rest. Here, therefore, are our five most crucial soft skills that employers look for from 21st century medics. An Overview To understand anything you must first understand the basics. ‘Soft skills’ are described as ‘personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with other people’. This seems simple enough, but in reality how do you demonstrate this in your CV, and which ones are most applicable for medics? Leadership No matter what position you hold, from registrar to senior consultant, you need to show strong leadership qualities. Leadership is a combined mixture of a vast range of soft skills, with good communication, confidence, honesty and care at its heart. Being a strong leader means that you are prepared to take responsibility. It means that you feel confident working with a group of fellow medics and that you thrive under pressure. It also means that you treat any instances of failure rationally, and work to ensure that it is only seen as an opportunity for improvement - no matter how serious it may be. To some people leadership comes naturally, for others it can be something which needs to be built up over time. For any role in medicine however it can be a crucial way to show potential employers how valuable a team member you could be. How can I demonstrate this? Make a point of including a situation where you were either put in charge of a scheme, or found yourself naturally acting as a leader within a group. Speak through the different challenges you faced in managing the team, the difficult decisions you faced and the end outcome - along with how you came to that decision. All of this shows good leadership qualities. Emotional Intelligence and Empathy Working as a medic can be a hugely rewarding career, however it also comes with plenty of difficult moments. Most notably delivering bad news to a patient. This can be heartbreaking for even the most experienced medics, and so it’s crucial that you show the correct amount of empathy whilst not allowing your emotions to impact on the decisions you take. Your persona as a medic is crucial. Make yourself open and welcoming, and be aware that many people may be terrified by the prospect of, what to you is, a fairly routine surgery. Help settle any worries that patients may have, and be prepared to try and explain things in the simplest possible way - especially if you are working with children. Try and establish a bond of trust between the patient, their family and yourself. This can help calm nerves at a stressful time, showing empathy or speaking about similar successful procedures can play a major role in ensuring that patients have a good experience. The worst part of the job however is delivering news that can only be seen as bad. A terminal illness diagnosis can shatter a patient’s life, and so you need to make sure that you break the news to them in a caring and empathetic way. It can often help to put yourself in their situation to consider how you would deal with the news. Working out how to work with patients and their loved ones is never easy, however the more experience you have the more confident you should feel in approaching very difficult issues. How can I demonstrate this? This can be a particularly difficult skill to show potential employers, however during the interview stage making sure that you are enthusiastic and upbeat about the role, whilst remaining serious about your career demonstrates a real understanding of emotional intelligence. Further to this any evidence of feedback from patients, such as cards or letters thanking you for the way in which you dealt with them or their family members, acts to prove that you are an empathetic and emotionally intelligent medic. Confidence There is a thin line between confidence and arrogance, and as a medic you need to make sure that you act with an heir of confidence, without ever appearing arrogant. The main difference is attitude. Confident people will be approachable and happy to help others with less knowledge. As a medic who will deal with a range of different knowledge levels this is a particularly crucial aspect. You need to be confident speaking about your area of expertise in simple terms for patients, as well as in great detail to give fellow medics and understanding of what you are trying to achieve. Confidence is especially crucial when meeting with patients and working with less experienced medics. Nobody wants to feel as if they are being treated by a novice and so, no matter how inexperienced you are, giving out a feeling of confidence and experience can be crucial in helping you to convey the right image to patients and fellow medics. How do I demonstrate this? During the interview stage speak in detail about your subject and why you believe you are the right person for the role. Speak with a feeling of pride and confidence about your past achievements. Maintain confident body language throughout the process by ensuring that you have a good posture and maintain eye contact. To demonstrate practical examples of how confident you are, speak about times that you had to take brave decisions that you knew were correct, despite any potential risks associated with them. Motivation and Flexibility If you are the sort of person looking for a consistent, 9 to 5 job, then becoming a medic was probably the wrong career choice. As a medic every day will produce a range of different challenges, requiring you to work to keep up your motivation and remain flexible to deal with the various situations that can arise. Being a motivated person is about adopting a ‘can do’ attitude that rubs off on all those around you. Motivated people will work to keep those they work with (both patients and medical staff) on top of their game even during tough times. This motivation is crucial in making sure that you are as flexible as you can possibly be. All patients are different, and being flexible in how you deal with them personally is an important factor in developing a trusting relationship with them. Being flexible can also extend to working slightly longer hours should the hospital need you, or being prepared to swap shifts with a fellow medic should they have another important appointment at that time. Not only will this demonstrate to hospital management that you are a flexible and committed worker, it will also help you to gain the respect of the others working in your specialty or department. Something that can play a big role if you are aiming to work your way up to the top of your career. How do I demonstrate this? Being a motivated and motivational person comes will naturally come across during the interview stage (and in some cases this enthusiasm can even be conveyed by your CV). Similarly to confidence positive body language and a positive attitude can combine to help make you a very appealing candidate. Flexibility can be shown through examples of times where you have had to adapt to circumstances, or through positive reports of helping out fellow medics in your department through your professional references. Professionalism and Attention to Detail Working in healthcare can be stressful and difficult. A range of pressures are often on medics, whilst they often have to juggle various tasks at the one time. That’s why it's crucial to always demonstrate the highest professional standards at all times. Keeping yourself well organised and composed during manic situations is what sets the world’s leading medics apart from others, whilst making sure that every detail of a patient’s care is carefully focused on further reinforces just why you are in such a demanding role. Tiny details can be the difference between a successful and unsuccessful medical procedure, so it’s crucial that - even under immense pressure - you are able to act calmly and with a focus on making sure that the patient receives the highest possible standard of care. How do I demonstrate this? Don’t be afraid to speak to potential employers about particularly stressful situations that you have worked in. This can be at any point in your career, and will act as evidence as to how you cope with the pressure. Further to this providing evidence of any awards you may have received for procedures carried out will only reinforce just how high the standards you set yourself are. If you are considering moving to work abroad then register on our website today. Our expert team are waiting to help make your career enhancing move a reality.

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Hospitals in Dubai Set to be Star-Rated

Hospitals and clinics in Dubai are set to be given hotel style star-ratings from next year. Under the new scheme both public and private facilities will be rated based on five pillars: Clinical quality, finances, operational support, patient happiness and patient safety, to give those in need of medical care easy to use assistance when deciding where to have procedures carried out. Speaking at a press conference arranged to publish the news, CEO of the Dubai Health Authority’s regulation sector, Dr Marwan Al Mulla said: “Benchmarking and measuring the quality of care is fundamental to help build a robust health system where patient-centric care and safety is the cornerstone. “We are working closely with the private sector to design a system which uses health data intelligently to help enhance health service delivery. “Under the new system, consumers will have access to information that will empower them to make better choices about health care providers. It will also provide medical tourists with trustworthy, independently validated information about Dubai’s healthcare quality.” Dr Al Mulla also highlighted benefits for the healthcare sector itself, adding: “The system will also allow for the development of a long-term reimbursement strategy, based on the evidence of the quality of care provided.” Government agencies in the Emirates are already rated on a seven star system, with evidence seemingly suggesting that it helps to motivate employees to provide a consistently high standard of service. Whether or not the impact will be the same in the unique healthcare sector however remains to be seen. Is the implementation of a star-rating system for hospitals a good idea, or is it inappropriate for the sector? Let us know your views on our social media channels.

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Singapore AI Growth

Patients in Singapore could soon be telling virtual medics about their symptoms to ensure that they visit the correct hospital or clinic. Scheduled to be in place by the end of the year, the new ‘chatbots’ only require basic details to help make a decision - allowing them to provide assistance with where to visit and, in serious cases, prioritise patients needing urgent care to cut waiting times. The news was revealed at the country’s tenth annual National Health IT summit, with Minister for Health, Gan Kim Yong, keen to highlight just how important technology will be in the future of healthcare. He told attendees: “Technology is making current healthcare models better and more efficient, whilst others have the potential to revolutionise how we receive care services to live more healthily. “Telemedicine, artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics are some of the most important innovative technologies adapted by the healthcare sector. “While digitisation and automation of existing processes bring benefits, true transformation and quantum leaps can only happen when we go deeper to redesign processes and reinvent delivery models and concepts.” Jobs in Singapore are always highly sought after, and few vacancies come up. To get ahead of the competition register on our website for job alerts today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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Kuwait's New Medical City Opened

Kuwait’s enormous new Jahra Medical City has officially been opened - just three years after work started on the build. The new development includes six 724,000m2 buildings, more than 1,200 hospital beds and a range of other facilities that look set to change the face of medical care in Kuwait for ever. At the heart of the development is an Obstetrics and Gynaecology centre which has become the largest focused on the speciality in the country. A vast new Accident and Emergency centre has also been opened, featuring a helipad for any serious issues. The development is not just home to inpatient facilities either, with state-of-the-art laboratories and no fewer than four robotic pharmacies also built in. In an attempt to become a centre of healthcare, the development also boasts 115 dentistry clinics - all equipped to the highest Western standards. As one of the biggest medical developments in recent times it should come as little surprise that the medical city is home to the world’s second largest hyperbaric medicine unit, and the second biggest patient transport service facility on the planet. Kuwait may not be as popular as it once was, however the small number of job opportunities that do arise remain highly sought after. If a move to the country is something that would appeal to you, register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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A Third of Australian's Unaware of Smoking Risks

Fewer than a third of Australians know about the rarer health conditions caused by smoking tobacco, according to a new report. Published this month in the Medical Journal of Australia, the survey spoke to a sample of 1,806 average Australians over the phone and online - quizzing them on how likely smoking would be to increase their risks of a range of medical conditions. Over eight in ten respondents knew about the well-published links that are shown on cigarette packaging- such as Lung Cancer, Emphysema and Throat Cancer, however less than half were aware of the links to female infertility, Kidney Cancer and Diabetes. Speaking to ABC News, Michelle Scolla from Victoria’s Cancer Council, said: “It was predictable and pleasing that smokers knew about the health effects that have been highlighted in the current sets of warnings and media campaigns. “However fewer than half realised it could reduce your fertility, and that could have a really major impact on the course of people's lives.” This has lead to calls to update the graphic warnings already displayed on packaging to cover more conditions, and ensure that they don’t lose the shock factor. Australia has long been attracting skilled expats, with year-round sunshine, plenty of job opportunities and a relaxed way of life. If you believe the country would suit you, register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine.

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Virtual Reality Helping Stroke Patients - UAE

Stroke patients are set to benefit from the latest Virtual Reality technology in the United Arab Emirates. As part of the UAE’s nationwide strategy for Virtual Reality (VR) stroke patients can be assisted during their rehabilitation by the technology, with different everyday activities displayed on the headset to help the recovery of the upper body. Stroke patients aren’t the only beneficiaries either, the technology can also be used to help children with developmental disorders - especially those who struggle socially - without any side effects, and within a safe environment. Likewise benefits have been noted in the visual cognitive skills of Cerebral Palsy patients and in the quality of life enjoyed by those with Parkinson’s syndrome. Speaking about the developments, assistant undersecretary for hospitals at the UAE’s Ministry of Health, Dr Yousuf Mohammad Al-Serkal, said: “We are keen to fully integrate artificial intelligence into medical services to boost the future of healthcare, to create pathways and proactive solutions to enhance patient happiness and to achieve the goals of the National Agenda 2030 for sustainable development. “In addition, we aim to position the UAE as a leading global destination for healthcare in line with the UAE’s Vision for 2021 to provide a world-class healthcare system, using smart technology based on national indicators and performance standards, and through the adoption of the global best practices.” Will Virtual Reality have a big impact on the future of healthcare? Let us know what you think on our social media channels. If you’re interested in working in the UAE’s advanced and forward thinking healthcare sector register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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Five Things to See in Dubai

Making a move is about much more than simply boosting your earnings or challenging yourself professionally. It also gives you the opportunity to explore a new part of the world. That’s a major attraction for many of the expats we work with, so in our new series we’re going to look at five things not to miss out on in some of the locations where we work. Part 1 - Five Things You Have to do in Dubai 1 - The Burj Khalifa Obviously you couldn’t possibly spend time in Dubai without taking a trip up the world’s tallest building. A stunning achievement of engineering, the views from the top - especially at sunset - are absolutely breathtaking. Even just standing beneath the building can be an incredible experience given the sheer size of it, making it a must-visit for anyone spending even a short time in the Emirate. 2 - A Dinner Cruise As a city built around water, Dubai’s beautiful marina is home to a range of different activities, from all action water sports to quiet boat trips. One of the most popular attractions however are the dinner cruises, where lavish vessels take diners through the Emirates’ waterways whilst they dine. These can be expensive, and the food isn’t always as good as in the restaurants, however for an experience it’s hard to top. 3 - Hot Air Balloon Rides Being surrounded by untouched desert makes Dubai perfect for hot air balloon rides, with plenty of companies offering unforgettable trips. Taking off either early in the morning or just before sunset, these can offer tremendous views across the city but from a quiet and safe distance. Do your research and book with one of the most experienced, leading operators though - to avoid falling victim to any opportunists without the greatest safety standards. 4 - Traditional Dining Dubai is a multicultural city with almost all tastes catered for, but it would be silly to visit the Middle East without trying out the region’s traditional dishes. There are plenty of good restaurants, however Amaseena by the Marina is considered by many to be one of the best. Offering a diverse range of tastes from all over the Middle East there’s plenty to discover and try for anyone looking for an authentic Arabian experience. 5 - Go on a Desert Safari Dubai might not have the natural scenery and wildlife of Western Europe or New Zealand, but that doesn’t mean that the deserts are boring - especially if you go on an organised safari. Companies offer plenty of types of safari, but we’d recommend going on an evening or night safari. These allow you to enjoy a traditional evening meal under the crystal clear night sky, whilst sunrise and sunset can look incredible against the golden dunes. If you’re interested in a permanent or locum move to Dubai register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine.

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Five Biggest Attractions to New Zealand

New Zealand might be on the other side of the world, but it’s still one of the most popular locations globally with medical professionals seeking a change from the NHS. What really attracts them to the country though? We’ve taken a quick look at five big reasons to make the move ‘down under’. 1 - Plenty of Opportunities Whilst it would be extreme to say that New Zealand has a skills shortage, there are plenty of job openings available for medics. This is especially the case in psychiatry and general practice. New Zealand has major issues with mental illness, and experienced consultant psychiatrists are always sought after - with generous salary packages offered to anyone who is keen to help make a difference. Other specialties are also sought after, so if you’re keen to make a move quickly then you might not have long to wait for the perfect opening. 2 - Relaxed Lifestyle New Zealand’s laid-back way of life is renowned worldwide, making it perfect for those in need of a break from the hectic city lifestyle endured in the UK. GPs in the country will commonly work a 38 hour week, with management keen to ensure that a healthy work/life balance is in place. Commuting is far less stressful than in the UK (and most of Europe) whilst stunning countryside can be reached in little time from the bustling city centres. 3 - A Safe Environment Crime rates in New Zealand are far lower than in most similar countries, with the country prides itself on providing an open, fair and welcoming environment. As London faces increasing issues with crime, New Zealand can offer an idyllic change without ever feeling restrictive. 4 - Healthy Lifestyle New Zealand is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, and so it’s little surprise that the country promotes an active, healthy lifestyle. The pleasant but not restrictively hot summers are ideal for long walks along the coast or through the rugged scenery, whilst the cold winters make the country ideal for skiing. The country’s lengthy coastline also makes it ideal for watersports all year round. 5 - Little Culture Shock For many people considering relocating overseas, the prospect of culture shock is something which ends a move whilst it’s still in its infancy. In New Zealand however the impact of this is likely to be minimal, especially for people moving from Western Europe or North America. English is the native language, the climate is similar and the nation’s major interests don’t differ either - with sport playing a huge part in everyday life. The same is true of the working environment, with high standards in place nationwide and the latest technology available to be worked with.

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Alcohol Abuse in New Zealand

A new report has highlighted which regions in New Zealand are facing the biggest issues with alcohol abuse. The statistics, collated in 2015, show that Canterbury on the North Island was the area worst affected, with 23 deaths directly caused by alcohol abuse. This was closely followed by other North Island locations Waitemata (20) and Auckland (19). Southern Region had the biggest issues on the South Island meanwhile, with 12 alcohol related deaths reported. The report didn't just look at fatalities, it also looked at hospitalizations caused by dangerous levels of drinking - something that highlighted the serious burden alcohol abuse puts on the healthcare sector. Auckland was the city with the biggest issues, with 508 people admitted to wards in 2015 alone. It was followed by Waitemata (488) and Canterbury (423), whilst Southern Region again had the biggest issues in the South Island with 321 admissions. Alcoholism has been named as New Zealand’s ‘accepted addiction’ by experts, with figures showing that 80% of Kiwis regularly drink alcohol, whilst one in ten are classified as alcoholics. Healthcare leaders are now keen to fight back, with calls made for minimum pricing and stricter advertising and licensing laws. Dr Nicki Jackson, director of Alcohol Healthwatch, told Newshub.nz: “Our drinking culture remains problematic, with every New Zealander picking up the tab. “Almost half of all alcohol sold in our country is consumed in heavy drinking occasions, something that paints the picture of our relationship with alcohol.” Despite battling serious issues with alcohol abuse, New Zealand is one of the most popular locations with Western medics seeking a new life overseas. The country prides itself on high quality facilities and a healthy work/life balance, making it ideal for someone looking to escape from the overworked NHS. Register on our website today to start your journey ‘down under’.

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Infertility Worries in the UAE

Secondary infertility rates are soaring in the United Arab Emirates, leading to a serious decline in the country’s population according to experts. The average number of births per woman in the Emirates has dropped dramatically in recent times - sinking from 6.6 per woman in 1970 to a projected figure of 1.66 by 2025, leaving the Emirates with a dangerously top-heavy population. Two major factors have been given as reasons for this notable shift - changing attitudes amongst women who are becoming more career driven and infertility rates that are considerably higher than the global average. According to Dubai Health Authority (DHA) figures around 50% of women in the Emirate experience infertility issues, with the number of people seeking medical support expected to double by 2030. As the UAE has developed two sizeable lifestyle changes are being pinpointed as major causes of the nation’s infertility: Obesity and Vitamin D deficiency. Rapid development has lead to people leading less active lifestyles whilst consuming a diet high in processed food. On top of this, the growth of large indoor shopping malls mean that people can spent days indoors without being exposed to direct sunlight - starving them of vital vitamins. Speaking to the Khaleej Times about the issue, Dr Human Fatemi, said: “We must adjust the lifestyle to make sure that IVF patients are informed about obesity and vitamin D issues.”

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5 Things Expats Love About Singapore

Singapore is regularly voted as the best location globally for expats, but what makes it so attractive to thousands of people every year? We’ve taken a look at five of the country’s biggest attractions. 1 - It’s Safe and Clean Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world. According to 2016 statistics, the city experienced over 130 crime free days a year - including small issues like shoplifting and break-ins. As a result many shopkeepers leave their business unlocked all the time, whilst people feel comfortable enough to walk the streets at night with no fears. Singapore is also extremely clean. Litter is rarely seen, and a ban on chewing gum means that the pavements don’t have that all too familiar white pattern seen elsewhere on the planet. If safety is one of your top priorities when deciding on a move, then Singapore could be the perfect location to call home. 2 - A Modern, High-Tech Workplace Few cities can boast a skyline as modern as Singapore, and that sleek, modern development continues into the island’s healthcare sector. New facilities are opening all the time, with investment in the latest medical technology rocketing as facilities attempt to outdo each other in a highly competitive marketplace. If you’re interested in putting yourself at the pinnacle of medical technology than no other location on earth can rival Singapore. 3 - Outstanding Talent Singapore has always been hugely popular with people seeking a better life overseas, however the island’s size means that it can afford to be extremely selective about the talent it brings in. This makes the medical workforce in Singapore amongst the best trained in the world, with specialists moving from throughout Asia, Oceania, Europe and the Americas to challenge themselves in the country. A move can be a fascinating one for your professional development - allowing you to meet and work alongside some of the world’s leading medical specialists. 4 - Education It isn’t just the medical sector that plays host to some of the world’s top talent, the education sector is also recognised as one of the strongest on the planet. Singapore is home to a range of outstanding international schools which attract a high standard of staff. Often expats are concerned about the impact a move could have on their child’s education, however this isn’t an issue in Singapore where the standard is often far higher than could be found in Europe. The country is also home to no fewer than six prestigious Universities, making it ideal for a medic with an ambitious family. 5 - Culture Shock Despite only being small in size, Singapore can feel like its own world. The country can offer everything from traditional Asian architecture and cuisine to a very Western way of life. As it is a country built on immigration, English is the national language, making it easy to communicate with the large and diverse population. Likewise the high expat population means that it’s easy to find groups with similar interests to yourself. Unlike other locations in Asia, the culture shock you experience in Singapore should be minimal. For more information on moving to Singapore, register on our website today.

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Five Things to Know About Shanghai

China is a massive country, however expats are commonly attracted to a small number of places. One of the most popular over the last 125 years has been Shanghai, a stunning modern metropolis located in the east of the country. A move to Shanghai can be an exciting and enriching one, however it also represents a big change from life in the West - so how should you prepare for a move? Here are our top five things to know. Housing As you would expect from such a vast city, the housing market in Shanghai has a diverse mix of properties to suit almost every budget. Typically expats will live in serviced apartments or penthouses near the city centre. These modern skyscrapers are surprisingly spacious, however aren’t for everyone. More conventional houses are available outwith the centre of the city, however these can be extremely expensive unless you move some distance outwith the centre. Prices vary depending on the neighbourhood, but are commonly lower than in central London, making Shanghai slightly cheaper than many other major cities. Education China is renowned worldwide for how highly it values education, and Shanghai is absolutely no exception. The city is home to some high quality international schools teaching British. American and German (among other) curricula. The country has an especially strong focus on the sciences and sport, as a result most schools have cutting-edge labs and high quality sports fields and equipment. Naturally this comes at a cost, with the best schools often charging in the region of $3,000 per month. As the country is keen to attract the highest possible standard of medical talent however some employers offer an allowance to help cover the cost. Healthcare Shanghai’s healthcare system is considered by many to be the most advanced in China. The city has grown and developed at a remarkable rate in recent years, and the healthcare market is more akin to Singapore than many other parts of the country. China has also been successful in attracting plenty of talent from the West, and so standards and models of care are very similar to those found in Europe and North America. As the country attempts to grow and develop a workforce of its own, plenty of opportunities have arisen for experienced Western trained medics to help shape the sectors’ future, making a move perfect for someone looking to pass on their skills to the next generation. Finances There are two ways of looking at a move to Shanghai; either it gives you the chance to live of a life of luxury at a lower cost than London or New York, or heavy taxes mean that it’s nowhere near as financially rewarding as a move to the Gulf. If enhancing your finances are the main reason behind your decision to take your career overseas then we’d recommend looking elsewhere. There is still plenty of money to be made in China, and in Shanghai especially, however the culture shock associated with the move will be too much for someone simply looking to boost their bank balance. Flights, food and transport costs are all far lower than in the West, whilst an HSBC report published in 2015 showed that a quarter of expats in the city make more than $300,000 annually. A financial boost is certainly a reason to consider Shanghai, but don’t make it your main attraction. Culture China is in a unique position whereby it blends traditional Oriental tradition with modern-day Western cultures. Shanghai is so large that travelling through the city can often feel like travelling between different countries. Nanshi, the old town, is a stunning historical throwback to traditional China. Stunning intricate designs are carved into uniquely Chinese houses, whilst at night the warm lighting makes it truly beautiful. In less than an hour however you can find yourself in the hectic, modern Lujiazui. Shanghai’s financial district. This area is full of enormous buildings, traffic and people commuting between their offices and Metro stations. This makes Shanghai a truly fascinating place to call home. Few locations can allow you access to authentic handmade Chinese food between a Starbucks and a McDonald’s. For more information, register on our website today.

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Further Boost for Saudi Healthcare

Dubai based NMC Health have this week sealed a deal that will see it become the second largest private healthcare provider in Saudi Arabia. The growth comes as a result of a new partnership that will combine NMC’s Saudi assets with those of the Kingdom’s biggest pension investment provider - Hassana. As we reported last month, it is estimated that the Desert Kingdom will require an additional 20,000 hospital beds by 2035, and policies introduced to help grow healthcare in the country were a major attraction to NMC, as the company’s CEO, Prasnath Manghat, explained. He said: “The Saudi government’s forward looking and investor friendly policies make the Kingdom one of the most attractive destinations in the region for investment in the healthcare sector. “Hassana’s strong commitment to the sector, particularly in the form of strategic investments, remains a vital means of attracting and developing health care expertise in the country. The partnership between NMC and Hassana would offer a tremendous opportunity for both the companies to better serve the KSA healthcare market.” The value of Saudi Arabia’s healthcare market is expected to rise by $30bn between now and 2022, with some of the Gulf’s biggest providers keen to get involved in the expanding sector. High levels of investment combined with increasingly liberal laws, and a comparatively low cost of living are making Saudi Arabia a seriously popular destination with medics seeking a more rewarding career overseas. Register on our website to start your Arabian odyssey today

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Visiting a GP...From Your Phone?

Telemedicine in the United Arab Emirates has taken another step forward thanks to the launch of a new mobile application. ‘Health at Hand” will allow anyone to speak to a medic remotely via their Apple or Android device confidentially and securely, with records being stored within the application and therefore being easily available. Based in Dubai, where many people struggle to find time to visit their family practitioner, it's hoped that the new software will encourage people to engage more frequently with medical professionals to help catch health issues at an early stage. Consultations will last for around 15 minutes, after which patients are provided with a report and list of medication to take to a pharmacy. The cost of the new system for the patient is a major selling point, with an adult paying just 250AED (£51) a year for unlimited consultations, whilst a two adult, three child family package is priced at just 450AED (£83) annually. A pay as you go option is also available, priced at 100AED (£20) per consultation, with no long term commitment required. Speaking at the official launch of the new product, founder and CEO of ‘Health at Hand’, Charlie Barlow, said: “It's the ideal solution for those who are time-poor but want to ensure that their health and wellbeing is looked after. Health at Hand quite literally puts the patient's health back in their hands.” Does ‘Health at Hand’ represent the future of healthcare, or will it just be another gimmick that will fail to catch on? Let us know on our social media channels.

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New Report Highlights Unhealthy Lifestyles in Canada

Research published this week has shown that a staggering 72% of men in Canada are leading an unhealthy lifestyle. Conducted by the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation, the study is the first compiled in the country that has examined behaviour linked to disease instead of illness itself. Five key areas that lead to disease were examined: Diet, sleep, exercise, smoking and alcohol consumption, with worrying statistics published for each section. The study found that 62% of men in the country are leading an unhealthy diet, whilst 59% fail to hit the target of 150 minutes of moderate to strenuous exercise per week - leading to growing obesity rates. The other finding that was dramatically above average was in the number of men getting too much or too little sleep - with 54% of respondents said to be in this group. Alcohol and tobacco consumption levels were thankfully far lower, with 39% of men consuming an unhealthy amount of alcohol, and just 20% now being regular smokers - a figure that has dropped by 30% since the 1960s. Speaking about the report, which surveyed 2,000 men between the ages of 19 and 94, Dr Larry Goldenberg, Canadian Men’s Health Foundation Chairman said: “We now have a platform to evaluate the health behaviours of Canadian men over time. I hope other researchers will use this platform to study different populations around the globe and design targeted interventions to encourage men to live healthier lifestyles. “After all, 70% of men’s chronic health conditions are caused by lifestyle and, unlike genetics, can be changed to improve your health” Whilst president of the CMHF, Warren Hartrick, remained positive, despite just 5% of men showing none of the habits. He added: “It doesn’t take much for a man to go from the unhealthy category to the healthy category. Think of these categories as a ladder. Most Canadian men can move up a rung by changing just one unhealthy behaviour. They can go up two rungs by changing two behaviours, like eating five fist-sized servings of fruit and getting seven hours of sleep.” Canada has always been an extremely popular location with expats seeking a more rewarding life overseas. Job opportunities are highly sought after however, so get ahead of the competition by registering on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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China Tops USA in New Report

Fascinating new World Health Organisation data has shown China overtake the USA in healthy life expectancy for the first time. Not to be confused with overall life expectancy, healthy life expectancy at birth works out the amount of years of healthy life that a newborn can expect to live after disability weights are applied. According to the WHO report, children born in China in 2016 can now expect to enjoy 68.7 years of healthy life, compared to 68.5 for those born during the same time period in the United States. The overall life expectancy remains slightly higher in the US - 78.5 years compared with 76.4 - however Americans are now considered more likely than the Chinese to suffer from serious ill health. Including the US, only five countries saw their healthy life expectancy fall, with Afghanistan, Georgia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Somalia being the others. Meanwhile China’s growth puts it on a similar level to that of many developed Western locations. Japan continues to lead the way in terms of overall life expectancy, whilst children in Singapore can look forward to living the most healthy years (76.2) - a figure that highlights just how impressive the island city state’s ultra-modern healthcare system is. If a move to either China or Singapore is something which might interest you, register on our website today. Both locations are growing quickly, and so a dream move could be closer than you might imagine.

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Five Attractions of the UAE

The United Arab Emirates has cemented its place as one of the most popular locations for expats seeking a better life overseas, but just what attracts so many people to the Gulf’s biggest success story? We’ve taken a look at five of the biggest attractions of the UAE. 1 - Tax Free Salaries Of course it goes without saying that the financial rewards of a move to the Emirates are an attraction to a huge number of people. The country can offer some of the world’s highest salaries and, with no income tax and housing often included, this can make a move extremely financially rewarding. As you would probably imagine the cost of living is high however, and the introduction of VAT at the turn of the year has only further increased this. We’d therefore recommend doing your sums before you go, to work out how well a move would work for you. 2 - Safety and Security As the majority of people are in the UAE on a Visa for work reasons, and with punishment severe for the small number involved in crime, it should come as little surprise that the country is one of the safest on the planet. This is especially the case in the expat only compounds, where entry is secure and crime-rates are virtually non-existent. If you’re looking for somewhere safe to raise a family, then no location on earth is safer than the Emirates. 3 - Prime Location Whilst the UAE may seem like a different world to those of us in the UK, it isn’t actually as far away as you’d think. It takes under seven hours to fly from London, and the country is positioned within easy reach of...pretty much everywhere. Dubai International Airport is one of the world’s busiest, with flights taking people to Australia, The Far East, Europe and America on an almost hourly basis. The demand is so high that prices can be kept low, making it the ideal location for someone looking to explore the rest of the region, or simply looking to take short breaks during long weekends. 4 - Fantastic Healthcare The United Arab Emirates has one of the highest number of Joint Commission International (JCI) accredited healthcare facilities in the world, and this is testament to the quality of care on offer in the country. Healthcare is benefiting from heavy investment as the Emirates attempts to build itself up as a hub for health tourism. This means that there are still plenty of opportunities within a competitive and challenging environment. 5 - A Mixed Culture As you would expect from a country with a diverse population, there really is something for everyone in the UAE. Whether you are looking to explore Islamic history, have a traditional Thai meal or even go skiing (yes, really…) the UAE will have you covered. This makes the country perfect for people with children to entertain, and allows you to explore the world from your doorstep. Nowhere else on earth can offer such a wide variety of amenities within such a small area. For more information on working in the UAE, and the latest job alerts, register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine

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Genomics Progress in Canada

A new pilot initiative is being rolled out in Canada, in an attempt to help enhance the care offered to patients with rare diseases. Launched earlier this week by Genome Canada, the new programme has promised every patient with one of over 7,000 rare diseases access to diagnosis and (where available) treatment, as part of a plan to improve the standard of precision healthcare offered to patients. Precision healthcare, where disease is predicted and prevented before taking hold, looks as if it will play a huge part in the future of the industry, and studying the genetics of those with rare diseases will allow for further enhancement. Canada’s new national strategy will feature three key initiatives: The establishment of a rare diseases cohort, following the collection of 30,000 pieces of data from those with rare diseases and their close family members. The establishment of a national platform to make collecting and sharing data easy for researchers. Greater clinical implementation, with clinical and regional health centres partnered and accredited to cover a large percentage of the population. Speaking at the publication of the new plans President and CEO of Genome Canada, Marc LePage said: “Precision health built on genomics and other technology promises the unprecedented ability for diagnostic precision and timeliness, as well as the opportunity to discover new disease mechanisms and treatments. “Our rare disease pilot initiative aims to directly help thousands of Canadian patients and their families, while laying the foundation for better health outcomes. “The launch of this strategy is a major step towards implementing precision health into Canada's healthcare system. We look forward to engaging patients, the provinces, healthcare providers, and researchers in this exciting and important initiative.” Canada is one of the most popular locations with the medics we work with, and job opportunities are always highly sought after. Get ahead of the rest by registering on our website today.

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Scale of Devlopment in UAE Highlighted

The latest Human Development Report published in the United Arab Emirates has highlighted just how much the country has changed over the past two decades. Previously studied in the early 1990s, the latest findings have shown that life expectancy in the country has grown by almost six years nationwide, with residents in Dubai now expected to live until they reach the age of 82. The findings mean that the Emirates is now ranked as one of the 50 most advanced countries on the planet, with healthcare, education and the economy all highlighted as being particular strengths. A 16% increase in the quality of life was charted, leaving the UAE with a score akin to Spain, Portugal and Italy. This is made even more impressive when the considering that the Middle East region: “has never been as challenged with political instability, economic calamities and demanding circumstances as nowadays.” Wages throughout the seven Emirates varied greatly, with Abu Dhabi’s average of $113,640 making it comfortably wealthier than Dubai ($59,866) and Umm al-Quwain ($44,241). Despite the excellent results work still has to be done to improve the nation’s health, a fact highlighted by the United Nation’s coordinator for the UAE, Frode Mauring, who said: “Progress in the health sector is reflected in several aspects, including the quality of services in hospitals. This is spectacular progress but malnutrition, lack of physical activity and lifestyle in general still pose a threat to mortality rates.” Despite there being fewer job opportunities than before in the UAE, the country has plenty to offer. Register on our website to start your journey today.

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Five Culture Shocks to Prepare for in Saudi Arabia

Few locations on the planet require such a change in lifestyle as Saudi Arabia. The secretive ‘Desert Kingdom’ attracts plenty of expats every year thanks to high-tax free salaries, and modern facilities, however it remains an option that many people won’t consider. The country is becoming more liberal, however it remains drastically different to the West. Here are five things to prepare for if you’re considering a move: 1 - Religion and Life No matter where you decide to stay, religion will have an impact on your life in Saudi Arabia. You’ll become used to hearing the call to prayer, and the laws which govern many aspects of everyday life. You can limit the impact it has however. Riyadh is ultra-conservative, and not really suited to non-Muslims, whilst Jeddah is more relaxed and open. If you’re looking for as little Islamic influence as possible however then a move to the Eastern Province is the best option - with these areas far more relaxed and open than elsewhere. 2 - The Heat Many people aspire to a move in order to escape from the freezing winters and wet summers we deal with in the UK - however adapting to the Middle East’s climate can certainly take time. As you would expect in a country that’s mainly desert Saudi Arabia is warm. Very warm. All year round. It’s not the heat that gets to you though, it’s the humidity which is often overlooked by expats. Combined with temperatures that are regularly above 40°C going out during the day can be tough - leaving newly arrived expats stranded at home until dusk. 3 - The Growth of Liberalism Lead by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia is rapidly becoming more and more liberal as it tries to move away from its outdated image. Last winter it was revealed that, from June, women in the Kingdom would be able to drive, whilst in April Cinemas were legalised for the first time in over 30 years. Other areas have seen growth too - comedy clubs and operas have opened, and women are being encouraged to get involved in sport - something that was almost exclusively for males previously. In an attempt to move away from an oil-centric economy, the Kingdom is changing dramatically. It may still be deeply conservative by Western standards, but the changes will undoubtedly make it more appealing to a wider group of expats. 4 - Still No Speaking Out Despite an increasingly friendly image, it is worth remembering that openly criticising the Government and Royal Family could still land you in prison for a lengthy spell. Saudi is becoming more open - however it has been strongly criticised for the heavy handed approach taken towards journalists and bloggers who have questioned decisions made by the rulers. Starting an online blog can be a great way to keep track of your adventures - and allow you to publish any worries or frustrations - but make sure that you don’t publish anything that could land you in trouble. 5 - Discrimination and Segregation One of the first things that always comes as a shock to expats is just how widespread segregation and discrimination remain in Saudi society. Men and women are separated in many different areas throughout the Kingdom. There may be different entrances at malls, different rooms to eat in at work and even seperate dining tables for the genders in fellow employees homes. Segregation isn’t just an issue, discrimination is very much widespread - and this can come as a real shock to many. If an employer is looking for a ‘native English speaker’ then they usually mean a white British person, not someone of Indian or Pakistani heritage. The number of roles solely looking for people within this criteria does appear to have dropped in recent years - however it is still noticeable. Start your journey today by registering on our website.

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Saudi Arabia Needs 20,000 More Hospital Beds

Saudi Arabia will need 20,000 more hospital beds by 2035 a new report has claimed. The publication, compiled by property consultancy group Knight Frank, highlights a projected growth in population as a key reason for the increased demand, whilst Saudi’s age demographics are set to change dramatically - with 44% of residents set to be over the age of 40 within the next 15 years. That’s not all, a dramatic increase has also been noted in the number of people using private health insurance - a factor that will further up demand. According to the research team, that makes now the ideal time to start planning your future in the Desert Kingdom. The forecast growth will lead to new facilities being offered - increasing job opportunities, and creating a competitive marketplace that will drive up the quality of care. Speaking about the findings, Senior Healthcare Manager in the Kingdom, Dr Gireesh Kumar, said: “Over the next decade, population dynamics are forecast to shift, with a significant increase in the population who are over 40. “This indicates an expected increase in the burden of lifestyle diseases, and the associated co-morbidities which would trigger an upsurge in demand for highly specialised medical and surgical care in the Kingdom.” Whilst Shehzad Jamal, Education and Health partner at Knight Frank, added: “Healthcare is undergoing a transformation phase. A long term view and thorough research must be taken while investing in the sector to ensure investments match current and forecasted demand.” Start your journey today by registering on our website.

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SPECIAL REPORT: New Visa Laws in the UAE

Big changes in the United Arab Emirates’ visa system have been introduced, and they’re great news for medics moving to the country. What’s Happened? In an attempt to attract more of the world’s top specialists, a new ten year visa is being introduced in the country. It’s hoped that the new, more relaxed, longer-term option will help convince more people that their future could lie in the Emirates. Whether or not the new visa is a permanent residency type - akin to the United States’ GreenCard system - is still to be confirmed, but either way it represents a step in the right direction for a country keen to attract the best possible talent. Who is Eligible? The criteria for the new visa is strict, aimed at singling out the specialist talent the country needs. As a result the system will be open to investors, and specialists in the medical, scientific, technical, research and engineering fields. Students classified as having ‘exceptional talents’ meanwhile will also be eligible to apply. Why is this being Introduced? There are two main reasons for the new visa system’s introduction at this moment in time. Firstly the Emirates are keen to continue developing areas away from oil, and this makes it vital that it attracts the world’s leading talent in other fields. By offering long-term security, high wages and the opportunity to shape the country’s future, hopes are high that a move will be too attractive for many to turn down. The second reason is far simpler. If people have the security of a long-term future in the country then they should be more inclined to invest in property, giving the slow market a much needed boost. How has it been Received? The response has, understandably, been exceptionally positive, with some of the Emirates’ most prominent businessmen hailing the introduction. Speaking to Gulf News, CEO of NMC Health, Prasnath Manghat, said: “This move would get the UAE one step closer to its aim of making the country a thoughtbed for incubators and creators and a dream destination for investors.” Whilst Dr Azad Moopen, Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare, added: “This will exponentially increase the flow of talent and capital to UAE, which will become a paradise for entrepreneurs and professionals.” Start your journey today by registering on our website.

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5 Things to Know About Canada

Canada has always been attractive destination for people seeking a fresh start overseas. The country is naturally beautiful, notoriously friendly and home to plenty of opportunities for well trained medical professionals. Here are five quick things to know about living in Canada: 1 - Equality Canada is often described as the world’s fairest country, and it’s not hard to see why. There is very little gender inequality, with even the country’s parliament equally representing both males and females. The same goes for expats who, regardless of nationality, race, religion or culture, will find it easy to settle into Canadian life. The Canadians are an extremely tolerant and friendly people, making a move appealing to medics who are starting to feel underappreciated elsewhere. 2 - Wild Weather Few locations on earth can provide the range of weather that Canada deals with on a yearly basis. Bitterly cold Winters can see the temperature drop below -40°C in places, before summer months where the average is often above 24°C! Although there are still four seasons, Autumn and Spring tend to be shorter than in Western Europe, with Winter turning to Summer over a period of just a few weeks. The country comfortably deals with the wild weather however, with transport links continuing to flow as normal even when the snow has been falling for weeks...Take note Britain! 3 - Gaining Accreditation Gaining accreditation to work abroad can be a frustrating and lengthy process. Thankfully in Canada it’s relatively straightforward and quick. You start by visiting https://physiciansapply.ca to apply for your ECFMG - an accreditation standard that can also be used in Australia and New Zealand. Then you upload your qualifications for primary source verification, before applying to the Royal College of Surgeons/Physicians in the area you are working in. That allows you to apply for a job easily on our website. After securing an offer you can apply for your license to practice, and when that’s approved it’s just a matter of sorting a visa and work permit before you board the flight. Few countries make it simpler. 4 - Travelling Canada is an enormous country, something you can only truly appreciate after spending a few weeks living there. As a result Canadian’s have a totally different perspective of distance to most people. A short drive in the UK might be 15 minutes, in Canada it’ll be a few hours! The sheer scale of the country can take some adaption, with lengthy journeys either by car or plane necessary if you’re looking to explore as much of it as you can. You should also be prepared for to travel in your role - with some requiring work to be undertaken at more rural facilities. This will be outlined by employers at an early stage in the recruitment process. 5 - Prices Can Be Deceptive Something that comes as a shock to plenty of people moving or visiting Canada is the price of everyday items...Although this story isn’t as it seems. Prices in Canada differ little from those in the United States or rest of the West. The difference lies in how the prices are displayed on the shelves, which is without any taxes or duties added. This can lead to some shocks at the till, where bills may end up being far higher than you imagined. It’ll also act as a good test of your mathematical skills in supermarket aisles! For more information on moving to Canada register on our website today.

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5 Things to Know about Ramadan in the Gulf

Across the world Muslims are preparing to celebrate the holy month of Ramadan, and this will have a particular impact on anyone living and working throughout the Gulf region. Whether your preparing to spend your first Ramadan in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait or Qatar, or you’re just interested in how a move will impact your life, we’ve put together a little guide of five things to know. 1 - When is it? Ramadan 2018 is expected to start on Thursday May 17, almost two weeks earlier than last year, although the official date is yet to be confirmed. When it begins Muslims will fast during daylight hours until the first day of Eid Al Fitr, currently scheduled to fall on June 15. 2 - Reduced Working Hours Across the region most people will work reduced hours during the holy month, with the UAE imposing a maximum six hour day rule on everyone. This isn’t always the case throughout the region, and some employers may expect non-Muslim employees to work as normal, however most will benefit from earlier closing times. Make sure that you plan any shopping trips, or administrative appointments, around the reduced hours - as things can get hectic. 3 - Everything Happens at Night With fasts only allowed to be broken once the sun has set, major cities like Dubai, Riyadh, Doha and Muscat come alive when darkness falls. Restaurants are often booked up well in advance, with families coming together to celebrate the end of the day with a large meal. Depending on the sunset times this can make the city centre a bustling hive of activity in the small hours of the morning! 4 - Don’t Eat in Public During Daylight Hours Whilst Ramadan obviously isn’t mandatory for everyone, it’s best that non-Muslims avoid eating in public during the month. This includes using chewing gum, and when driving your car. Many employers will set aside a special room for non-Muslim employees to have lunch in, however if that isn’t available we’d always recommend speaking to senior management before eating at work. It’s unlikely that you’ll face any issues, as tolerance is heavily preached during the month, however it shows respect for the culture you’re now part of. 5 - Music Almost everyone knows the rules around eating during Ramadan, however far fewer are aware of the customs surrounding music and dancing. Playing music loudly during daylight hours will be frowned upon, and we’d recommend quietly using headphones to get round the issue. If you live in a gated compound then playing music around the house won’t be an issue, however if you’re living in a mainly local neighbourhood it’s best to keep the stereo turned off! Register with us to start your journey

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NEW REPORT: 6 Ways to Improve Healthcare in the GCC

A new white paper has identified six areas within the Gulf’s healthcare sector that need to be improved. Published this week by Bahrain based ‘Investcorp’, the report studies the healthcare sector in each Gulf Cooperation Country (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman) and identified the shared areas where development is needed. We’ve highlighted their key findings. Focus 1 - Wellness and Prevention •GCC Countries are spending between $31 and $131 per person on preventative care •This needs to be upped to around $450 to meet European levels •With diabetes rates soaring, preventative care could reduce the cost of the condition by 25% •And reduce the number of people living with the condition by 50% What do Investcorp recommend? •Improving lifestyles to target the related issues •Promotion of screening campaigns and regular check-ups •Development of primary care Focus 2 - Specialisation •After focusing on developing scale, a focus should now be put on attracting more niche specialists •Not only would this help the region, it would also attract more medical tourists •There is a particular shortage in growing areas, like mental health support and geriatrics •A lack of ‘centres of excellence’ focused on a small number of areas What do Investcorp recommend? •Creating incentive schemes to attract investors to more specialist areas •Developing partnerships with Western centres of excellence •The creation of more medical cities in the region •Stopping the licensing of small generalist hospitals Focus 3 - Consolidation and Scale •Fix issues caused by a fragmented system •The top five private groups in Saudi make up just 25% of beds in the Kingdom •Larger groups controlling more can help to cut costs •Larger groups growing should also allow more specialist care What do Investcorp recommend? •Giving the greenlight to more mergers throughout the region •Increase standards in Labs •Support the emergence of large scale players Focus 4 - Privatisation •All Governments are helping to increase the role played by private sectors •The mandation of private health insurance in the private sector is a good sign •It should be a progressive transition like has been the case in Abu Dhabi What do Investcorp recommend? •The introduction of more techniques used elsewhere to increase efficiency •Outsourcing non-medical areas •Developing more public/private partnerships Focus 5 - Incentivisation •The growth of costs has lead to campaigns that incentivise good behaviour •In North America these have reduced costs by 17% •This could be vital as pressure increases on the economy post oil-boom What do Investcorp recommend? •The introduction of more sophisticated payment systems •Insurers should own, or partially control the healthcare providers, to provide integrated care •Stricter regulation is needed to crack down on unethical practices that still take place Focus 6 - Cooperation •Attempts so far at building centres of excellence have produced mixed results •Make the sector more attractive to expat talent, by introducing close partnerships to the West •Make it easier for non-GCC physicians to travel and work in the region, without needing separate visas and licenses What do Investcorp recommend? •Ramping up the GCC’s purchasing powers program •Linking purchasing in the Emirates, where all seven currently buy separately resulting in higher costs •Joint planning and funding for major developments, such as investing in proton beam therapy centres Register with us to start your journey

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5 Reasons to leave the NHS for Australia

Australia has long been considered one of the most attractive destinations for expats seeking a move from the United Kingdom, and in 2018 it’s no different. We’ve taken a quick look at five reasons to move to the country from Britain’s beleaguered National Health Service. 1 - Healthier Work/Life Balance Ask almost anyone why they took the decision to move to Australia, and it’s highly likely they’ll mention the work/life balance. Unlike in many Western European countries, Australians work to live, they don’t live to work. As a result working hours are far lower than they are in the NHS, and the expectancy that you’ll stay on or work overtime doesn’t normally exist. Expect other members of staff to insist that you get away on time, whilst you’ll be left alone to enjoy days and evenings off. This healthy work/life balance is the case countrywide, with the relaxed way of life a great way to escape from the constant pressures of the NHS, allowing you to enjoy working again. 2 - Great Training Positions Australia is becoming increasingly attractive to young medics, seeking quality training positions within an environment where they aren’t overworked and underappreciated. As well as those benefits pay is also more rewarding; a senior registrar can expect to earn up to 30% more, whilst working fewer hours, and learning in an open, engaging environment than they could in the UK. Year on year the number of British medics heading ‘down under’ to complete their training is rising, making roles more highly sought after than ever. 3 - Modern Facilities It goes without saying that Australia is home to plenty of modern, high quality facilities. Unlike a move to the Gulf where standards in some of the smaller clinics can be questionable, standards are high throughout the country - even in the most rural of locations - making a move risk free. This also means that the skills you have learnt in the UK will be easily transferable to the Australian sector, making a move routine and shock free. 4 - Better Salaries Of course no other factor can play as big a role as finances for anyone considering a move overseas. Put simply if a move wasn’t financially rewarding the vast majority of people wouldn’t even entertain the idea - despite the lifestyle benefits. Salaries have remained consistently above European levels, whilst other perks can be added for working in rural areas, or heading overseas to speak at or attend conferences. If a role has proved troublesome to fill due to its location then salaries can be almost 50% more than they would be in the UK and, although not as rewarding as one of the tax-free Gulf countries, this can make a move financially wise. 5 - The Lifestyle For many people, the simple factor of the weather can be a major appeal of Australia. The country benefits from almost constant sunshine, and average temperatures of more than 20°C year-round. The change from the dark, cold winters and inclement summers experienced in Western Europe can have a major impact on the everyday lives of expats. It’s not just the weather that is attractive, the active, outdoor lifestyle enjoyed by Australians makes it perfect for sports fans, or people who just enjoy spending time outdoors, by the beach or walking. The lifestyle related benefits of a move shouldn’t be overlooked by anyone considering a move - and for anyone who isn’t sure, a short-term locum can be a great introduction to life in the country. For more information, and the latest job alerts from Australia, register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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Melanoma Named Australia's 'National Cancer'

Melanoma has been named Australia’s ‘national cancer’, as the scale of the condition is highlighted nationwide. Worryingly statistics published by Australia's National Cancer Council have shown that two out of three Aussies will be diagnosed with skin cancer during their lifetime, with awareness campaigns now having to be stepped up a gear. One novel way in which the country is trying to increase awareness is through the creation of an online test, which tells participants how high their risk of developing the condition is. More than 160,000 people responded to the survey within just a fortnight, with 17% ranked in the ‘very much above average risk’ category. Whilst Australia’s sun-loving culture has played a part in explaining the world-leading statistics, a range of environmental factors have also been highlighted. Clear skies, year-round sun and low levels of air pollution all contribute, whilst the country’s predominantly Western European ethnic makeup also plays a major role. Death rates from skin cancers are higher in Australasia than anywhere else on the planet, with experts pointing to a growing, ageing population as one of the key reasons for this. A new report has illustrated a rise amongst young people, with between two and three diagnosed every day - a trend that would see the country facing massive issues in years to come. Could you help Australia as it prepares to battle back against skin cancer? Register now on our website to start your odyssey today, a dream move could be closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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Demand for Healthcare Soaring in UAE

Industry insiders have claimed that the demand for healthcare services in the United Arab Emirates will rise exponentially in the coming years. According to the Dubai Health Authority, the demand for hospitals beds will increase dramatically as a result of the increasing demand from medical tourists, and the introduction of mandatory health insurance. Public private partnerships are set to play a key role in the future of Emirati healthcare, with the DHA’s director of investment and partnership, Dr Ibtesam Bastaki, highlighting why this is essential He said: “If one was to examine the rate of growth of population in the UAE, by 2025, at the current rate, we can expect a gap in inpatient beds, in price-positioning and in specialities. Therefore there certainly is potential, and our aim is to foster and promote health investment in areas where there are a lack of services or where there are opportunities for growth.” Dubai is aiming to become a global hub of medical tourism, with ambitious targets to attract 500,000 medical tourists by 2020. With hopes that the trickle down effect of family visiting at the same time will have a positive impact on the Emirate’s economy. Elsewhere new laws have been officially passed which will strictly regulate medical facilities, to ensure that they hit the highest possible standards. Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, said on the law’s passing: “The new law will facilitate a new growth phase in the healthcare sector and help cement Dubai's position as a global hub for medical tourism. We want to offer the best healthcare facilities and services, attract top healthcare establishments, the best medical personnel and the most advanced technologies.” Despite experiencing a slow-down following the oil-price drop, the UAE remains a highly attractive location for those looking for a better life overseas. Healthcare is to play a key role in the restructuring of the economy, and that means that there will be plenty of opportunities for Western trained medics looking for a move. Register on our website to get ahead of the rest, and start your odyssey, today. Register with us to start your journey

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Free Healthcare for Expats in the UAE

A new agreement between the UAE’s Ministry of Health and pharmaceutical giants Novartis will give thousands of expats free healthcare. Open to those with low levels of health insurance, or no coverage at all, the move will see patients given up to a years worth of free medication - something especially helpful for those suffering from long term conditions. Introduced to mark the year of Zayed, patients will be referred to the programme by their family physician, with hopes high that more than 3,000 people will benefit from the scheme. Speaking at the announcement assistant undersecretary for public health policy, Dr Amin Al Amiri, said: “This initiative is effective immediately and ends when all of the 3,210 residents who are in need of medication they could not otherwise afford are receiving treatment. “This will be particularly beneficial for cancer patients and those suffering from chronic conditions such as asthma, multiple sclerosis, retinal and blood disorders and psoriasis and those with limited health insurance. “By launching this program, we hope to reduce their burden and increase their happiness by improving their health. “This initiative is very important to patients who cannot afford their treatment, which in turn leads to further complications and a life of misery, whilst increasing the demand on the healthcare sector.” The news comes at a busy time for healthcare in the UAE, and we’ll have the latest on plans aimed at growing the industry further on our blog section next week. Register with us to start your journey

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Mental Illness Rates Soaring in Australia

The number of young people visiting Emergency Departments with mental health issues in Australia has rocketed it’s been revealed. According to a study published last week by the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, there was a 46% increase in the number of young people visiting Emergency Departments in Victoria between 2008 and 2015. Meanwhile a separate paper has shown a 27% increase in the amount of people under the age of 19 experiencing suicidal thoughts, self harming and self poisoning. Worryingly the biggest rise appears to have been in those between the ages of 10 and 14 - leading to calls for more interventions at an earlier stage. Lead author of the study into Victoria’s mental health, Professor Harriet Hiscock, said: “It's extremely worrying. The emergency department, by and large, is not a place where children with mental health issues should be coming. “It may be an issue of not knowing where else to go, or they may go to their GP and get referrals and there’s waiting times, out-of-pocket costs or services that don’t open hours that are suitable for parents and children.” Whilst adolescent health expert at the Royal Children’s Hospital, Professor Susan Sawyer, added: “We're yet to pick up the ball around a prevention agenda, particularly around self-harm. “There are some important questions to be asked about the quality of care that is being delivered in schools.” Australia’s battle with mental illness is well known, with the country keen to fight back against issues estimated to affect more than a quarter of the population. For more information on how to secure a move to the country, register on our website today. A life changing opportunity could be closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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Saudi Arabia Hits Exercise Target

Saudi Arabian’s are starting to fight back against unhealthy lifestyles. According to research carried out during the first three months of this year almost a quarter of people are now exercising at least once a week, a huge rise from just 13% in 2015. The figures will come as a huge boost to the Kingdom’s Ministry of Health who set a target of getting 20% of people active by 2020. A large chunk of the success has been down to the Saudi General Sport Authority (GSA) who have introduced neighbourhood football leagues, community sports groups and organised the Riyadh Marathon. Prince Abdulaziz Al-Faisal, Chairman of the GSA, and himself a successful racing driver, said: “This result is a huge motivator for us to even work harder to serve all different sports and physical activities. “This accomplishment is due to the collaborative efforts of all departments within GSA and other governmental stakeholders, these efforts have generated a positive reaction from the people of Saudi Arabia to better the quality of their lives, they’ve realised the true benefits of sport to them and to all members of society.” Saudi Arabia, as with the rest of the Gulf, is facing a huge battle with obesity, caused mainly by poor diets and a lack of exercise. Work is now taking place across the region to combat this, and lessen the strain placed on the area’s healthcare systems. With Saudi leading the way thanks to some innovative ideas there has never been a more attractive time to move to the Desert Kingdom. To find out how to start your odyssey today register on our website. A dream role could be far closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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Gastric Balloon Surgery for Children in Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Khalifa Medical City is to offer gastric balloon surgery to children as young as 11 it has been announced. Traditionally the procedure would be only be offered to children when they turn 13, but now Abu Dhabi’s main government hospital will offer it to ‘patients who really need it’. Previous studies have limited the availability to children weighing between 88 and 127kg, however no such structure will be in place at SKMC. Intragastric balloons are one of the most popular non-surgical weight loss techniques available. It involves the insertion of a silicon balloon into the patient’s stomach, artificially creating a feeling of being full after eating just a small amount of food. On average patients are able to lose around 15% of their body weight in just six months with the balloon, with most people experiencing very few side-effects. With childhood obesity rates in the Emirates currently sitting at 34%, and with 70 million children estimated to be obese globally by 2025 there has never been a more vital time to target the issue. Whether or not non-surgical interventions will make a major contribution remains to be seen however, with greater education and changing attitudes potentially being the key. One stumbling block is the price, set at around 15,000Dh (around £3,000) which is not covered by insurance. For many parents however that may be worth paying to give their children the best chance of living a long, healthy life. Job opportunities in the United Arab Emirates are always highly sought after, to give yourself the best chance of securing the job of your dreams register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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Children's Attitude to Obesity Changing in the UAE

A new study into attitudes of children towards their health in the UAE has found that awareness of healthy lifestyles is at an all time high. The work, conducted by Oman Insurance, Bupa and YouGov, showed that 84% of young people in the country are aware of the links between obesity and junk food. Likewise 87% of people are now aware that diabetes requires additional medical care. In a country where youth obesity rates sit at almost 40%, the role of the parent was also examined - and the results were decisive. 62% of children named their parents as their most important role model, whilst 60% would consume a healthier diet if it was controlled by their parents. It wasn’t all positive however, with 24% of the 249 respondents claiming that they believed watching television or reading a book counted as exercise. Despite this however Karim Idilby, Bupa’s General Manager for the MENA and India region said: “The level of awareness of healthy living among the children surveyed is surprisingly high given the rising UAE obesity rate. "However, there are still noteworthy gaps that need to be addressed to help children and their families live longer, healthier and happier lives.” If you believe that you could help the Gulf region in its battle with childhood obesity register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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World Asthma Day 2018

A new ‘teacher’s toolkit’ to help those in education work with Asthmatic pupils has been launched in New Zealand, as World Asthma Day is marked globally. Tuesday May 1 is officially World Asthma Day, with CEO of New Zealand’s Asthma and Respiratory Foundation, Letitia O’Dwyer, excited about the new software’s launch: “We’re running a big campaign this year on World Asthma Day to really raise the profile around asthma and education. “There are lots of activities going on, and we are extremely proud that we have been able to launch the ‘Teachers’ Asthma Toolkit’, our new online resource, and a first for New Zealand. “There just haven’t been the right tools to help and assist the teaching profession with the increasing number of pupils with asthma. How should you respond in school to an asthma emergency? What are the common school triggers? What are the correct processes and procedures? How can we teach our children about this? It’s unfair to expect teachers to know what to do without that support and knowledge. “Now we can provide this.” Figures suggest that around 586,000 school days are lost every year because of Asthma, with around four in every 30 students affected by the condition. Elsewhere World Health Organisation estimates suggest that 300 million people are affected by the condition globally, with figures across the Gulf region being especially high. This is particularly notable in Saudi Arabia, with almost a quarter of the population battling the condition. Figures in Kuwait (16.8%) and the UAE (13%) were also higher than average. ‘Never too early, never too late, it’s always the right time to address your airwaves disease’ is this year’s global theme, with hopes high that increasing awareness will help people to manage their symptoms more effectively. Register with us to start your journey

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Obesity Targeted in the UAE

Efforts to fight obesity in the United Arab Emirates have been recognised at a conference studying the issue across the Gulf. As the Emirates has developed so too has the nation’s waistline - with obesity rates having tripled over the last 40 years. Faced with the heavy cost of dealing with an obese nation plans are now in place for the Emirates to fight back. A paper released at the ‘Gulf Obesity Summit and Regional Congress’ stated the Emirates’ plans to combat the issue. It read: “The UAE, on its part, deserves praise for its efforts to find proactive solutions to fight obesity, through promoting health, nutrition and sport. “As per expert advice, the UAE aims to introduce strict food regulations and standards, as part of the government’s policy to promote healthy lifestyles with a set of goals, including making healthy foods, nutrition and physical exercise a common and daily practice, whilst childhood obesity will be targeted through greater community involvement.” Now medical leaders in the country are optimistic that, by 2025, it will be able to meet the United Nations’ target of ending growing obesity rates. If these aims are to be successful it will be largely down to the proactive techniques used by the nation - as recognised by conference attendees. Head of Chronic Disease at the Department of Health Abu Dhabi, Dr Lamees Buhaliqa, said: “The department's Weqaya Programme, which has been implemented by 30 facilities, aims to encourage people to eat a healthy and balanced diet, to promote good health and wellbeing while noting that most chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, cancer and bone fragility can be avoided through eating a healthy diet.” If you believe that you could help the UAE in its battle with obesity, and the associated long-term health conditions, register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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Health Over Wealth for UAE Millionaires

Millionaires living in the United Arab Emirates now value their health over their wealth according to a new report. The study spoke to more than 400 individuals in the UAE who had at least $1 million in investable assets, and the results could hardly have been any more conclusive, with 91% of participants stating that they value their health ahead of their fortunes. This has been reflected in changes taken by many in the country towards their health. The wealthy in the country are now spending more than ever on gym memberships, personal trainers, healthy food and medical insurance. Working habits have changed too, with hours being reduced in an attempt to create a healthier work/life balance and promote positive mental wellbeing. Meanwhile 45% of respondents now say that they expect to live until they are 100, potentially changing the Emirates’ demographics forever. Head of wealth management for the Arabian Gulf at UBS, who compiled the study, Niels Zilkens, said: “Health clearly takes precedence over wealth in the UAE based on our latest data. In fact, nowhere else in the world would investors give up so much of their wealth in exchange for a longer, healthier life. “Lots of investors in the UAE also want to use their wealth to improve the health of others. We’re seeing a very strong desire to invest in health-related causes that will have a positive social impact. Already, over half of investors are telling us they want to commit more of their wealth to impact investing projects in the future.” The news will come as a big boost to healthcare providers in the Emirates, who have found themselves struggling to cope with the ever-increasing burden of lifestyle related disease. For more information on how to secure a move to the United Arab Emirates register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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A Third of Workers Battling Mental Illness in Australia

A third of office workers in Australia are now battling a mental illness according to a comprehensive new study. More than 3,500 employees responded to Medibio’s report, known as ‘Australia’s Biggest Mental Health Check-in’, making it one of the most telling insights ever compiled into the mental health of the nation. According to the findings depression is now the biggest mental health problem in the workplace, overtaking anxiety for the first time. Stress meanwhile was given as the third most common issue - with cases now five percent less frequent than depression. The figures should come as little surprise however, with Australia known to be battling serious issues with mental illness. As the stigma surrounding conditions begins to drop, rates are rising globally - though Australia’s shift from one in five to one in three over the last decade will come as a shock to many. Speaking about the findings, program creator Peta Slocombe, said: “A decade ago one in five Australians were found to be suffering from a mental illness in any given year, the manner in which we all live, work and interact has changed radically since then - to the detriment of our mental health. “Depression is estimated to cost Australia $12.6 billion annually, and this year’s Check-In shows the issue is rising. “It’s clear that we need a change in how we address mental illness. Using innovative technology, we can now understand how our heads and hearts are tracking - shifting from subjective to objective diagnosis and in doing so, accelerate diagnosis and treatment.” Aside from the rising statistics, the survey also found another worrying trend, where just 47% of those with mental health concerns felt prepared to speak to their superiors about it. Until that figure changes Australia - as with the rest of the world - looks set to face a lengthy battle with mental health for years to come. Australia remains an extremely popular location with Western trained medics seeking a better life overseas, with psychologists and GPs in especially high demand. If you believe that you could help fill the skill shortage register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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Inside Recruitment: A Recap

In our most recent Odyssey Exclusive series we did something a little different. Instead of the usual country guides and healthcare insights, we focused on the recruitment side of recruitment itself! Our team are some of the most experienced in the business, and so we decided to put together a series of articles focusing on our inside knowledge. In the final installment in the series we’re recapping everything we covered - to help ensure that you get the most out of your career. Part 1 CV Writing Tips In the first article in the series we gave you our top five CV writing tips. It might be cliched, but your CV really does represent you - and if it’s performing poorly then don’t expect to secure the job of your dreams. Our Five Top Tips Are: 1 - Formatting - Keep it clean, professional and consistent. 2 - Jargon - Don’t be afraid to use it, so long as it’s relevant. 3 - References - The most important part of your CV, make sure that they have worked with you in your speciality, and are experienced enough to provide quality feedback. 4 - Personal Development - Have you been keeping your skills up-to-date? Do you have a connection with your speciality? Prove it. 5 - Personal - Remember to add in any hobbies or outside interests, it adds a human touch and allows employers to gain an idea of your character. Part 2 - CV Writing Mistakes Of course we couldn’t just tell you what to do, without telling you what to avoid. We read hundreds of CVs every year, and you’d be amazed how many make these basic errors. Here are five to avoid: 1 - Americanisms - Acceptable if you are American, but don’t flick between American and British English - this shows a lack of attention to detail. 2 - Spelling & Grammar - The most basic thing to focus on, make sure that your work is accurate in terms of spelling and grammar. 3 - Too Lengthy - There’s nothing more damaging to your career prospects than a lengthy CV. Important information can easily be lost in an ocean of irrelevance. Keep it concise. 4 - Don’t Fabricate Anything - The medical world is a small one, and people talk. To avoid tarnishing your reputation never consider sprucing up any information - however small it may appear. 5 - Be Unique - HR departments and recruiters read plenty of CVs a year, so avoid being generic and make yours really stand out. Part 3 + 4 - Salary Negotiation There are two things true of almost everyone in every walk of life. They want a more attractive salary package, however they find negotiating it uncomfortable and stressful. Here are our top ten tips: 1 - Know Your Value 2 - Assess the Competition 3 - Ask Plenty of Questions 4 - Be Honest About Your Current Package 5 - Have a Suitable Anchor Figure 6 - Counter Attack 7 - Don’t Make Threats 8 - Agree Your Priorities 9 - Listen 10 - Use Email Part 5 - Being Prepared The more prepared and organised you are in advance, the quicker and easier a move will be. It’s that simple! There are plenty of things you can have sorted before applying for a job, and some of our partner companies can help make things go smoothly. 1 - CV - Keep it up-to-date, even refreshing it every few months as and when necessary. 2 - Passport - Make sure that you (and any other travellers) have a passport with, at the very least, six months remaining. 3 - Copies of Qualifications - Keep a folder with scanned copies of your qualifications stored on your computer - making sure the quality is high enough that they are readable. 4 - Documentation - Securing a move can often feel like processing an endless pile of documents, however copies of specialist registration and certificates of good standing are vital. 5 - Passport Style Photo - These are easy to get, and are looked for at various stages - from verification to ID when you are on-site. Part 6 - Being Ready Being prepared and being ready we hear you say, aren’t they the same? Nope. Similar, but different. Being ready is about ensuring that you know what to expect, and are fully prepared for the challenges ahead. Here are the five we looked at: 1 - Research - Know where your going, understand the customs and the way of life, and orientate yourself with your local geography. 2 - Keep up-to-date - Be aware of local health issues, and recent news to understand the industry you will be working in. Our ‘Blog’ section can be a big help here. 3 - A Connection - Attending events and seminars about a move can be a great way to meet contacts who can help you settle in. 4 - Medicals - Undergoing a medical prior to a move is necessary in a number of countries, and our partners can help make this stress-free and quick. 5 - The Paperwork - Have everything sorted before you board the plane; where you are going, who you are meeting, where you are staying and how you’ll keep in touch. Register with us to start your journey

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Pollution Levels Cut in China - But Health Risks Remain

Despite cutting pollution in the majority of its major cities, China’s health may be damaged for generations to come according to a new report. The findings, published this week by the Health Effects Institute, showed that around 1.6 million Chinese people are dying each year as a result of smog, a figure that is only expected to rise as the population ages - despite the decrease in pollution levels. Recently released figures showed a 6.5% drop in the number of harmful particles in the atmosphere across 338 cities in the country, after a campaign was introduced aimed at cutting coal use and traffic in city centres. Despite this however the number of Chinese people over the age of 60 has increased by 55 million since 2011, vastly increasing the population’s risk of respiratory conditions. President of the HEI, Dan Greenbaum, told the Reuters news agency: “People are living longer and older people are more susceptible to the diseases most closely linked to air pollution - the major causes of death in China are strokes, heart attacks, and lung cancer. “We have done some projections in China up to 2030, and even with improvements in air quality, you see the number of deaths going up as the population gets older.” China is fast-becoming one of the world’s most exciting locations for expat medics seeking a new challenge overseas. Register on our website today for more information, and the latest job alerts. Register with us to start your journey

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Inside Recruitment: Be Ready

In our latest Odyssey Exclusives series we’re doing something a little different. Instead of the usual country guides and healthcare insights, we’re going to focus on the recruitment side of recruitment itself! Our team are some of the most experienced in the business, and so we’ve decided to put together a series of articles focusing on our inside knowledge. In the penultimate in our exclusive series, ‘Inside Recruitment’, we’re taking a look at why keeping your skills and knowledge up-to-date can be vital in ensuring a smooth transition into your new homeland. A move can often feel overwhelming, however laying the groundwork in place prior to boarding the plane - or even applying - can help make things easier. Here’s our quick guide to being ready for a move. 1 - Research We cannot possibly stress how important it is to do your research prior to applying for a move overseas. Whether you are attracted by the Aussie lifestyle, Saudi salaries or Far-Eastern technology, it’s vital that you consider every aspect of a move - and understand how your life will change. Don’t assume that Australia and New Zealand are just like the UK. They have a similar culture, however there are plenty of differences, and their location can get to some people. Likewise don’t apply for a role in rural Canada and then be surprised by just how rural the location is! Research is especially important when moving to the Gulf however, where the way of life is very different - even in the expat hubs of Dubai, Doha and Manama. Look at how your everyday life will change, from the impact made by religion to simply living in a far warmer climate. 2 - Keep Up-to-Date If you’re looking to give yourself the best possible chance of securing a job, and want to settle in as quickly as possible, make sure that all your qualifications and skills are as up-to-date as they could be. Not only will this show a genuine connection with, and interest in, your specialty, it will also allow you to work comfortably as part of your new team - where additional skills, or modern technology may be used. 3 - A Connection As well as ensuring that your skills are up-to-date attending additional seminars and courses can also help you to prepare for a move. These can be a great opportunity to network with others from the industry, many of whom may have first-hand experience working in the location you are targeting. Not only can they give you fantastic advice on how to settle in, and what to prepare for, they can also put you in touch with useful contacts from the area. 4 - Medicals Before applying for a Visa anywhere it’s likely that you (and anyone you’re travelling with) will have to undergo a medical. This is a straightforward and relatively inexpensive procedure, with your new hospital often reimbursing the fees charged after you’ve completed your initial few months of employment. We can help by putting you in touch with experts who will be able to make the process as simple, and as stress-free as possible. Certain locations only license a small number of facilities to carry out medicals, and our contacts can help speed the process up for you. 5 - The Paperwork We actually produced a little infographic late last year that looked at the things most often overlooked by expats. In that we identified finances, cards, airport pickups, accommodation and mobile communication as the five most common factors forgotten about during the excitement of a move. Finances are comfortably the most important of these. Make sure that your tax status is correct - so that you don’t come back to heavy bills, or aren’t paying when you shouldn’t be. Likewise ensure that your bank account is set up to work abroad, and that any cards you have will be accepted. A first shop being ended by a faltering card will create stress you really could do without! It’s also important to make sure you know how you are leaving the airport - and where you’ll be staying during your first days in the country. Make sure to have all this information sorted and detailed in advance. Register with us to start your journey

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Calls for Cigarette Style Warnings on Alcohol

Calls have been made for cigarette style warnings to appear on alcohol in New Zealand. Alcohol abuse is a major issue in the country, however it is one that has been all too often overlooked by those studying addiction. Statistics published by the New Zealand Drug Foundation showed that alcohol caused more health issues than illegal drugs methamphetamine, marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy, acid and heroin combined, whilst more than 80% of Kiwis are now regular drinkers. That has lead to calls from Doug Sellman of the National Addiction Centre for action to reduce the figures. Recently beer producers in the country have started to publish nutritional information on their bottles, however Sellman believes this is a ‘smokescreen’ for the real issues. He said: “There needs to be clearer labelling on bottles about the risks of alcohol, including brain damage to unborn children and cancer. “These are the kinds of labels that need to go on to wine bottles rather than all the nutritional issues. The nutritional issues are just completely trivial.” Perhaps understandably alcohol producers in the country have spoken out against the plans, with many members of New Zealand’s world famous wine industry expressing particular concerns about the impact cigarette style warnings could have on their sales - and image. With the financial burden of alcoholism rising worldwide however it’s evident that something has to change. Is this something you’d support? Let us know via our social media channels. Register with us to start your journey

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New AI to Work With Autism

The role played by Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the United Arab Emirates will continue to rise over the coming years according to an industry insider. Along with Singapore, the UAE is home to some of the most advanced medical technology on the planet, with robotic pharmacies and robotic surgery both having been used in the country for almost five years. Now, however, things are set to develop further, with child-sized robots being introduced later this year, aimed at helping children with Autism. Dr Shabeer Nellikode of Universal Hospitals UAE told the Khaleej Times why he believes the new technology could be a gamechanger. He said: “There are a lot of children with autism spectrum disorder in the UAE. The child-sized humanised robot will be able to play with children with autism and support them. “Autistic children will interact and feel closer to the robot than with humans, because the robot will carry similar characteristics to them. “The children will be interacting with ‘people’ who do not have a taboo about playing with them.” The rise of AI across the Emirates has been nothing short of remarkable, with Abu Dhabi’s Cleveland Clinic just two cases away from performing 150 robotic procedures. That figure doesn’t include the latest in wearable technology or telemedicine either, with hospitals now able to monitor patients at risk of heart conditions around the clock. Despite the positive growth, the costs remain high, limiting robotic surgery to the nation’s top hospitals. A da Vinci robot costs more than $2m, whilst surgery varies between $3,000 and $6,000 more than standard procedures. Irrespective of the costs involved however, Dr Neillikode has a key piece of advice for medics worrying that they may be replaced by machines. He concluded: “Although artificial intelligence and robotics are taking center stage in the medical field, they will not necessarily replace doctors. “But a doctor who is using artificial intelligence and robotics will definitely replace a doctor that doesn’t use them.” Thinking of a move to the UAE? Register on our website to start your Odyssey today. Register with us to start your journey

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Women's Health Issues in the UAE

Ahead of the World Congress on Gynaecology and Obstetrics later this month, the UAE has revealed the five biggest issues affecting women’s reproductive health. Scheduled to take place on April 16 and 17 in Dubai, 14 of the world’s leading experts in the field will speak about current trends, issues and the academic future of the sector. Prior to the event however a list of the top five health issues affecting women in the UAE was published, with many being linked to ‘first world’ problems like obesity and vitamin deficiencies. 1 - Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome An increasingly common issue throughout the developed world, PCOS can be genetically transferred and is associated with an increased risk of developing conditions like type-2 diabetes and high cholesterol in later life. Officially there is no cure for the condition, however with treatment patients are still able to give birth. 2 - Fibroids Non Cancerous growths made of muscle and fibre tissue that grow around the Uterus, these are linked to Oestrogen, however the exact causes remain unknown. Around one in three women experience the issues - normally between the ages of 16 and 50, with symptoms including abdominal and back pain the most commonly experienced. 3 - Endometriosis A common long-term condition, rates in the Emirates appear to be on the rise. Those with the issue can face difficulty in getting pregnant, along with nausea and crippling abdominal pains. Depression rates also increase notably in Endometriosis patients. There is currently no cure, however it can be managed in a variety of ways. 4 - Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome Along with a range of other issues, obesity can lead to hormonal imbalances and an irregular menstrual cycle. Unsurprisingly this is a major issue in the UAE, where obesity rates - especially among women - have soared in recent years. 5 - Cardiovascular Disease and Cancer All of the other issues combine to put women in the Emirates at a higher than average risk of both cardiovascular disease and Cancer. Rates of both are on the rise, with an increasingly unhealthy lifestyle - especially poor diets and a lack of exercise - the major contributory factors. Register with us to start your journey

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COPD Shock in China

A new Tulane University study published in the Lancet journal has shown the scale of the challenge facing China in its battle with COPD. Almost 100 million Chinese people are now suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - some 8.6% of the country’s total population, with the research - which screened the lungs of more than 50,000 participants - considered the most comprehensive ever conducted in the country. COPD is a common condition that usually affects adults who smoke, or who have smoked. It causes frequent breathlessness, chest infections and a persistent cough, with the symptoms getting worse over time. With air pollution and tobacco smoking rates in the country both extremely high, it comes as little surprise that China faces a major issue with the condition. However the scale of the problem is the real shock. That’s partially explained by the fact that many people with COPD in China are unaware they have it, with only 2.6% of patients having a knowledge of the issue prior to diagnosis. Although smoking was closely linked to development of the condition, a minority of non-smokers were also found to have developed COPD - with high pollution levels, low education and genetic factors highlighted as the reasons for this. Speaking about the findings, Chair of Epidemiology at Tulane University School of Public Health & Tropical Medicine, Dr Jiang He, said: “Our research shows that COPD is highly prevalent in the Chinese adult population. The biggest preventable risk factors for the disease are cigarette smoking and air pollution. “Prevention programs and increased efforts to catch COPD early should be public-health priorities in China to reduce COPD-related diseases and deaths.” China is home to one of the fastest growing healthcare markets in the world, making it an increasingly popular destination for medics seeking a career enhancing move overseas. For more information, and the latest job alerts, register on our website today. Register with us to start your journey

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Inside Recruitment: Be Prepared

In our latest Odyssey Exclusives series we’re doing something a little bit different. Instead of the usual country guides and healthcare insights, we’re going to focus on the recruitment side of recruitment itself! Our team are some of the most experienced in the business, and so we’ve decided to put together a series of articles focusing on our inside knowledge. In the next in our all new and exclusive series, ‘Inside Recruitment’, we’re going to look at what to have prepared at each stage of a move - to allow everything to go as smoothly as possible. Making a move overseas can be a stressful experience, however things can be far easier when you are organised in advance. Here, therefore, is our quick guide to five things to have prepared in advance of a move. 1 - CV I know, I know, we keep going on about the importance of your CV! Seriously however it acts as the key to securing the job of your dreams. Always make sure that you have an up-to-date, well formatted and well written CV prior to registering on our website. It seems obvious, however you’d probably be amazed at the number of people who submit an outdated résumé - or one that requires extensive work to reach industry standards. Follow our tips on effective CV writing (and the mistakes to avoid) and you can’t go wrong. 2 - Passport For anyone even considering a move overseas it’s essential that you have a valid passport, with an absolute minimum of six months validity left on it. The recruitment process can often be a lengthy one, and occasionally gets held up by passport issues - where a candidate’s validity has expired whilst they wait on a move. Make sure that won’t be an issue for you, and remember to ensure that the passports of all those who are moving with you are also in date - even any children. 3 - Copies of Qualifications Arguably some of the most important documentation you own, copies of your qualifications will be required at an early stage to verify your credentials. If you keep these somewhere safe then great, if they’re stored in a box somewhere in the attic then look them out in advance! It will save any hold-ups or stress during the early stages of a move. Ideally we ask for copies of your qualifications to be scanned in and emailed to us, however we appreciate that finding access to a scanner can be difficult for some people. As a result we’re happy to accept images taken on a scanner app on a smartphone - ideally sent as a PDF file. 4 - Other Documentation As well as copies of your qualifications we’ll also need some other documents - mainly a copy of your specialist registration and a ‘Certificate of Good Standing’. Both of these documents should be easy to source, however be prepared to wait a few days for them to be issued. As a result we’d advise that you get started organising them prior to applying for a role overseas - as it will save time, and make you more appealing to potential employers. 5 - Passport Style Photo All candidates registering with us are required to submit a passport style photo (neutral expression, plain background) during the recruitment process. This helps to verify your identity, whilst potential employers can also use it for ID purposes when visiting hospitals, or starting a new role. These are best sent as a JPG or PNG file, and should be small in size - albeit not so as they lose quality. Register with us to start your journey

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Health Pods Trialed in The UAE

The United Arab Emirates is set to trial full body scanners, in an attempt to detect health problems at an early stage. If successful then the Government in the country hope that the ‘health pods’ will become a part of everyday life in the Emirates, with plans in place to station them in areas like malls and gyms as well as medical centres. More than 670 companies applied for the contract to provide the technology, with ‘Bodyo’s’ AirPod chosen as the prototype system. According to the company, their pods will help reduce the strain on GPs by allowing basic check-ups in just seven minutes - with information then sent to health professionals and stored on records where and when appropriate. Chief Executive of ‘Bodyo’ Tariq Hussain, told ‘The National’ why he believes the pods could be a real game-changer for the nation’s health. He said: “We want to change the mindset of doctors and patients, in which this technology is non-invasive and is a self-service interaction, without feeling like a medical process - to encourage people to want to return to improve their own health. “There is an initial set-up process that can be time-consuming as it’s new. After that, once people are familiar with the pods, they will become very recognisable and user-friendly.” Although the scans would take just seven minutes, it has been warned that they could lead to a shortage of nurses in the country. For each patient a team of six are required - one to operate the machine, and five to extrapolate and compile the data collected. Despite this however they are still predicted to be of financial benefit to the nation - working especially to lower the burden inflicted by long-term conditions, with Diabetes and Heart Disease two of the biggest health issues in the nation. Hussain concluded: “We envisage CEOs asking employees to encourage staff to have a Bodyo check once a month, so they can then go to insurers to prove how healthy they are and therefore manage their insurance costs accordingly. “Dubai is a city of firsts, if they can incentivise people financially to look after their own health, that could be a massive statement in the way healthcare is managed in the future.” Register with us to start your journey

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Inside Recruitment: Salary Negotiation 2

In our latest Odyssey Exclusives series we’re doing something a little bit different. Instead of the usual country guides and healthcare insights, we’re going to focus on the recruitment side of recruitment itself! Our team are some of the most experienced in the business, and so we’ve decided to put together a series of articles focusing on our inside knowledge. In the third in our all new and exclusive series, ‘Inside Recruitment’, we’re going to look at how to successfully negotiate the best possible salary for yourself. We understand how big a role finances can play in many people’s decision to move overseas, and so it’s important that you negotiate the salary package you deserve - but without appearing greedy or ill informed. In the second of a two part installment, we’ve compiled five tips to take onboard to successfully negotiate a suitably rewarding salary package. 1 - Counter Attack If you believe that your skills aren’t be rewarded to the correct degree then don’t be afraid to counter attack. Let the negotiator know why you believe your skills are deserving of a salary boost - and assure them that they are getting excellent value for money. Avoid being too aggressive though, it’s best to keep negotiations up-beat but firm. 2 - Don’t Make Any Threats We’ve all been there. Negotiations are going nowhere and you’re starting to feel angry at the prospect of leaving without any form of notable rise. Don’t consider making any threats though, as they could damage your reputation for good - and show you to be lacking any form of loyalty to the employer. It’s best to stay calm and accept that, sometimes, your employer won’t be willing (or able) to provide you with a more attractive package. Make sure you keep any strong emotions to yourself. The last thing you want is to find yourself upsetting senior management, who may view you as greedy and unsympathetic to their situation. 3 - Priorities Remember a salary package isn’t solely financial, it can also include holidays, study leave, allowances or other perks. If you feel that you aren’t likely to get a wage rise (or if that isn’t what you’re actually looking for) remember to consider what else to ask for in advance. Would an education allowance for your children prove more financially helpful than a small pay rise, would extra holidays allow you to spend more time with family at home, or would additional study leave allow you to research new areas - potentially providing a benefit to both yourself and the employer. Always consider these areas in advance, and have arguments prepared as to why you believe additional perks would work well with your employer and yourself. 4 - Listen This is vital. Listen to what your counter-negotiator is saying, show empathy with them and create a relationship where both of you are able to connect and work together for the most suitable outcome. Accept where they are coming from, and it’s more likely that they’ll show empathy with your point-of-view. 5 - Email If the thought of negotiating face-to-face isn’t something that you feel comfortable with then it’s entirely acceptable to use email. Email has become the number one communication tool in business, so don’t be afraid to use it. It is less nerve-wracking than the more traditional options and it will encourage you to stick to a structure. If you decide to use it however, then make sure that the tone of the emails remains conversational, and that you are open and honest about your demands and expectations, just like you would be in a conversation. Register with us to start your journey

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Private Investment in Healthcare Soaring in the Gulf

Private investment in the UAE’s healthcare sector will continue to rise according to a recently published report. Alpen Capital’s Gulf Cooperation Country Healthcare Report has highlighted more than 700 ongoing healthcare projects in the Emirates as a reason for the positive growth. Healthcare expenditure across the GCC region is now expected to reach $104.6bn by 2022, a growth of 6.6% annually from the current figure of $76.1bn recorded last year. In the report, the impact made by local businesses was considered especially noteworthy, with the recent expansion at Zulekha Hospital in Dubai highlighted as a particular success. Announced in January, the development saw 60 inpatient beds, plus additional theatre space and labour rooms added to increase the total capacity to 179 beds. That expansion was announced at the same time as plans for a new hospital in Sharjah, whilst the group has also continued to expand its business in India. Managing director at Zulekha Healthcare, Taher Shams, told the Khaleej times: “The region's increasing population, demographic shifts, high prevalence of chronic diseases with modern sophisticated lifestyles, combined with the mission of becoming a regional medical tourism hub are all driving the expansion of the country's healthcare market. “The need for accurate, secure and fast data analysis to manage critical information is becoming indispensable.” Another group contributing to the impressive growth figures are NMC Health, an Indian founded company who are now listed on the London Stock Exchange. NMC currently operate more than 30 facilities throughout the United Arab Emirates, whilst they have recently expanded successfully into Saudi Arabia. That hasn’t quenched their desire for expansion however, a fact outlined by CEO Prasnath Manghat. He said: “The UAE has seen some tremendous growth after the introduction of mandatory health insurance in Abu Dhabi and now in Dubai. As highlighted in a report by the US-UAE Business Council on the UAE healthcare sector, the UAE has witnessed a dramatic expansion of its healthcare industry over the past 4 decades. “At the time of the UAE's founding in 1971, the country had just seven hospitals and 12 health centres. As of the end of 2016, it had over 70 public and private hospitals and 150 centres and clinics focused on primary care. There could be consolidation happening among businesses in the near future and healthcare brands could look at the less saturated markets of the western region of Abu Dhabi and the northern emirates of the UAE. Yet, in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, there is still a lot that can be done.” Despite a drop in the oil-price, healthcare in the UAE remains a lucrative market. To get ahead of the rest in securing a role in the country, register on our website today. A move could be closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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Inside Recruitment: Salary Negotiation 1

In our latest Odyssey Exclusives series we’re doing something a little bit different. Instead of the usual country guides and healthcare insights, we’re going to focus on the recruitment side of recruitment itself! Our team are some of the most experienced in the business, and so we’ve decided to put together a series of articles focusing on our inside knowledge. In the third in our all new and exclusive series, ‘Inside Recruitment’, we’re going to look at how to successfully negotiate the best possible salary for yourself. We understand how big a role finances can play in many people’s decision to move overseas, and so it’s important that you negotiate the salary package you deserve - but without appearing greedy or ill informed. In the first of a two part special, we’ve compiled five tips to take onboard to successfully negotiate a suitably rewarding salary package. 1 - Know Your Value Before entering any negotiations it’s important to know your value. This can be affected by a whole range of factors, however it’s incredible how many people under or over value themselves. Make sure that you research in advance how much you should expect to earn, based on: Experience, qualification level, additional qualifications, geographical area and even the new skills you hope to learn. Do this successfully and an outcome that pleases both you and the employer shouldn’t be hard to achieve. 2 - Competition In any field it’s important to assess the potential competition. If the role is at a highly prestigious hospital in a popular speciality and in an area like Dubai, Central perth or Singapore, expect the competition to be fierce. If, however, you are applying for a job in a smaller speciality, or in a more rural location, then you’ll likely have a greater chance of boosting your earnings. Try and assess the competition in advance, and don’t be afraid to ask about it during the interview process. 3 - Ask Plenty of Questions It’s the best strategy at every stage of salary negotiations, and receiving an offer is no exception to the rule. Keep asking questions to boost your chances of succeeding in getting the best possible outcome. At this stage the best technique is to ask questions which show that you consider the other party’s views; ‘How can I help you to move towards my viewpoint?’ Or ‘It seems like the figure I suggested has taken you by surprise, what is the budget for my position based on?’ Research suggests that questions like these will show that you can work effectively with others, are not a selfish person and will create a degree of empathy on the negotiators behalf. 4 - The Dreaded Question We all know what’s coming. Anyone who has ever been in a salary negotiation setting dreads the moment it arrives. It can be what breaks down even the most hardened negotiator. ‘How much are you currently paid?’ When you get asked this you should never lie. Quickly provide the figure plus bonuses and other benefits before guiding the conversation towards what you are looking for. Do this by focusing on what you feel your market value is, the new skills you have developed since that salary was decided, as well as how you aim to progress moving forward with additional responsibilities that make use of your skills. Using these techniques should help to convince the employer that you are confident enough in your own current ability, and that you are looking to develop as an employee - not solely focused on potential financial gains. 5 - Your Anchor Figure The key to any successful negotiation is to start with a suitable anchor figure. This is the number you use at the very start of the discussion. Working out what it should be can be extremely tough. On one hand you should make sure that you aren’t devaluing yourself - or arguing over a relatively insignificant sum. On the other it’s important to make sure that you aren’t appearing deluded and greedy about your potential value - creating the wrong impression from the very start. Devise a figure that is slightly higher than you would ideally want. This ensures that you don’t walk out with a lower increase than you had hoped for - effectively wasting you and your company's time for a package that suited nobody. Whilst also giving the company negotiator the belief that they have been successful in getting a better deal for the company and thus reducing the pressure that a large wage increase can often bring with it. Check back next Monday for the second installment in our salary negotiation guide - including some massive things to avoid. Register with us to start your journey

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Bahrain March Roundup

Aiming to Improve Members of the Bahrain Medical Society, the Royal College of Surgeons and representatives from some of the country’s leading private hospitals met last week, with the aim of discussing how best to develop the nation’s healthcare sector. The meeting was described as ‘constructive’ by attendees, and was organised with the aim of continuing to improve the standard of healthcare on offer in the country. It is now hoped that partnerships between the three attending groups can be established, allowing for the introduction of joint training programmes, research projects, scientific plans and courses - leading to a truly integrated healthcare sector. Bahrain Medical Society chairman, Dr Mohammed Abdulla Rafie, commented: “The meeting came within the framework of the BMS contribution to advance its social responsibility and co-ordinate with all parties concerned with health and medical affairs. “I must stress the growing role of private hospitals in supporting national efforts to develop this sector in Bahrain.” Riffa Gains New Clinic A new clinic has been opened in Riffa, to the south of Bahrain’s capital Manama. Located opposite the Callidus Centre, the American Mission Hospital owned facility will offer both medical and dental care within a modern, cutting-edge environment. The clinic becomes the fourth opened by the AMH - with two satellites already set up in Saar and Amwaj, as well as the group’s flagship hospital in Manama itself. A range of services are set to be offered at the new clinic, including general practice, women’s health, ophthalmology and radiology, whilst it is also to be equipped with an olympic sized swimming pool for hydrotherapy. Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Dr George Cheryan, CEO of the group, said: “We are pleased to be able to provide residents in the Central and Southern Governorate with the highest quality medical services through this new facility. “This clinic is uniquely different in that a considerable space has been allotted to wellness, Physiotherapy and rehab, which includes a hydrotherapy pool. “The clinic is fully IT enabled with laboratory and X-ray facilities linked to our hospital information systems, with images and EMR’s shared across all our four facilities where radiologists at Manama can instantly report on images generated in any of our peripheral clinics.” New Psychiatric Centre Opened Earlier this month health minister, Faeqa bint Said Al-Saleh, officially opened the Kingdom’s newest Psychiatric centre. Located in Orchid Tower, Manama, the new Sulwan Psychiatric Centre will help the country as it continues to battle growing rates of mental illness. Globally mental health problems are on the rise, as awareness increases and the stigma that prevents people seeking professional helps starts to drop. This has been a particular issue throughout the Gulf, where attitudes can remain old-fashioned - especially amongst men. Fortunately however this looks to be changing, and the growth of private sector clinics is testament to this fact. Despite being small in size, Bahrain is becoming a leader in pioneering healthcare throughout the region. Job opportunities are infrequent and highly sought of, so to get ahead of the rest register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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World Down Syndrome Day

To mark World Down Syndrome Awareness Day on March 21 people with the condition have been urged to share their stories. Organised by the group behind World Down's Syndrome Day, the ‘What I bring to my community’ campaign aims to highlight the good work carried out by people with the condition - whilst highlighting just how vital a role they can play in enhancing the lives of others. Down's Syndrome is a genetic condition that can often be spotted prior to birth. It causes a degree of learning difficulties and physical characteristics, with its cause being attributed to a one-off genetic change that adds an additional chromosome. The likelihood of having a child with the condition increases as the mother ages, with NHS statistics showing it to be at 1 in 1500 for 20 year olds, rising to 1 in 100 for 40 year olds. Children born with the condition find themselves at a greater risk of heart conditions, sight and hearing problems and thyroid issues. Despite these challenges however Down's Syndrome International aim to change the image associated with the condition - with four key areas set to be targeted. They want to: Explain how people with Down's syndrome can and do make meaningful contributions throughout their lives, whether in schools, workplaces, living in the community, public and political life, culture, media, recreation, leisure and sport. Explain how negative attitudes and a lack of knowledge about their potential as individuals prevent people with Down's syndrome from having opportunities to make contributions. Empower people with Down's syndrome (and those supporting them) to advocate for their rights and opportunities to make meaningful contributions. Reach out to key stakeholders including educators, employers, public authorities, media and the wider community to ensure they see the benefits of enabling people with Down syndrome to make meaningful contributions and encourage these stakeholders to bring about change and disseminate this message. National Executive Officer at the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association, Zandra Vaccarino, commented: “Health and Allied Health professionals have a crucial role to play in correcting myths and changing society’s perceptions and narratives about Down syndrome, while also providing valuable and appropriate health care and support.” Will your workplace be marking World Down Syndrome Day? Let us know how on our social media channels. Register with us to start your journey

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INSIDE RECRUITMENT 5 CV Mistakes to avoid

In our latest Odyssey Exclusives series we’re going to be doing something a little bit different. Instead of the usual country guides and healthcare insights, we’re going to focus on the recruitment side of recruitment itself! Our team are some of the most experienced in the business, and so we’ve decided to put together a series of articles focusing on our inside knowledge. In the second in our all new and exclusive series, ‘Inside Recruitment’, we’re going to look at five commonly made CV writing mistakes to avoid. Remember most employers will make a decision on you within 50 seconds of reading your CV. We read hundreds of CVs every year, and many people would be amazed at how many contain these simple errors. So make yours stand-out by avoiding them. 1 - Americanisms This is especially pertinent for medics with English as a second language, where it can be tricky to spot - even with a word processing spellchecker. Employers won’t mind if you use the English or American English spelling of words, so long as it is consistent throughout your entire résumé. Where many people fall down is by using both spellings of the same word or word grouping! You wouldn’t write half a CV in Arabic and then switch to French, so why do the same with English? Not only does it show a lack of knowledge, it can also highlight a lack of attention to detail. In such a competitive environment something as simple as using a ‘Z’ instead of an ‘S’ could cost you a dream role. Five Words to Watch For: Centre (UK) - Center (US) Licence (UK) - License (US) Organise (UK) - Organize (US) Behaviour (UK) - Behavior (US) Leukaemia (UK) - Leukemia (US) 2 - Spelling and Grammar Under the same theme as the use of Americanisms is the importance of quality spelling and grammar throughout your CV. Again this appears basic, however the amount of simple spelling and grammar mistakes we see on a daily basis would shock you! Always make sure that your CV is checked on a word processor, and try and get it read over by a family member, friend or colleague. We’d also recommend getting your CV read back to you, either in person or through a text-to-speech program. This can highlight any little errors, or sentences that simply don’t flow effectively. 3 - Too Long Obviously we’d advise you to include all the information you need in your CV, but try not to make it into a short novel. We’ve seen CVs that stretch for more than 30 pages, and contain forensic levels of detail that are simply not relevant. To avoid this situation - which could lead to potential employers failing to pick up on vital points in a sea of information - we’d recommend two things; using bullet points, and avoiding using large paragraphs of text. Bullet points are a great way to convey important information in an attractive and easy to read way. Don’t be afraid to use them throughout your CV, and don’t forget that potential employers can always get in touch if they want more information. Large paragraphs on the other hand neither look attractive nor contain only key information. They can become bloated with unnecessary words, and employers will skim-read them - potentially missing information you’d be keen to highlight in the process. That’s not all - keeping your CV tight and concise will also save you time. What’s not to like?! 4 - Don’t Fabricate Anything Considering making an achievement sound a bit more impressive, or adding in some information that’s untrue (however minor it may seem)? Don’t. This must seem incredibly basic, but you’d be surprised by how many people extend their experience, scope of practice or skills to appear more attractive. We cannot stress enough how important it is to avoid doing this. Not only will it be noticed by someone, it also marks you out as being untrustworthy. This is about the worst possible conclusion that a potential employer can draw, and will lead to almost immediate rejection from the role. Further to this you risk damaging your reputation, as the medical sector is close-knit, and communication between hospitals is usually very open. Never consider typing anything but the truth in your CV, no matter how trivial any changes may feel. 5 - Avoid Making it Generic Almost all modern CVs contain an unnecessary number of clichés and it has led to them losing their meaning. How do you expect to make your CV stand out when it contains, word for word, the same strengths as rival candidates? The following are the most overused, exasperating and meaningless, but try and avoid using any at all in yours if you can. “I’m very enthusiastic” – It’s expected that everyone candidate will have an interested and open-minded attitude to the role they are applying for. Being enthusiastic about your speciality should be a given, and it acts as nothing more than a waste of words in a CV. “I’m a hard worker” – The minimum expected of anyone in any field of employment is that they will work hard. You shouldn’t feel the need to point this out as the information you provide in your CV should showcase how hard you work. “I’m a good problem solver” – Instead of using this cliché showcase situations where you have had to use problem solving skills in your professional career. This demonstrates to the person reading the CV that you do have experience that you feel would be relevant if you were to work for them. Absolutely anyone can say that they are a good problem solver, but only those with hands on experience and evidence can prove it. That marks the end of our CV writing articles, next week we’ll look at how to successfully negotiate your salary package Register with us to start your journey

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Cancer Inequalities in Canada

Research published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal has shown high cancer rates amongst one of the biggest mixed-race groups in the country. The findings, which were published last week, show that Canadian Métis women (one of the country’s three designated Aboriginal groups) had a significantly higher incidence of most types of Cancer, however rates amongst men were similar to non-Aboriginal groups. Along with Inuit and First Nations people, the Métis population are one of three groups recognised by the Canadian constitution as an Aboriginal people. The Métis usually descend from white and American Indian mixed heritage backgrounds. As with other Aboriginal groups worldwide, the Métis people have higher than average rates of poverty, unemployment, obesity and smoking - whilst their diets are also less healthy than those consumed by the average Canadian. That perhaps goes some way to explaining why the rates are higher in these groups, however the recent research has shown that the problem is even more historical. It illustrates a trend whereby Métis adults were significantly younger, and had lower educational and employment rates, when they were diagnosed. Higher than average rates of lung, liver, gallbladder and larynx Cancer were also noted - although leukemia and melanoma rates were lower than the national average. Dr Loraine Marrett of Cancer Care Ontario highlighted the major issues uncovered. She said: “The cancer burden of Métis people has been understudied in Canada, so this study substantially increases our knowledge of cancer risk and prognosis in the community. “The evidence found in this study shows us that more action is needed to reduce the incidence of cancer, improve survival rates and provide better health outcomes for Métis people.” Canada has always been a popular location with expats seeking a better life overseas. We have a network of strong contacts in the country, who can help make a dream move a reality. Register on our website today for more information, and all the latest job alerts. Register with us to start your journey

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Sharjah Introduces New Technology

Al Qasimi Hospital in Sharjah has become the first in the Middle East to take on the latest generation of robot assisted Percutaneous Coronary Interventional technology. The new system, for use in interventional cardiology operations, has been introduced by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, and will allow easy, flexible access to the arteries. Known as CorPath GRX, it allows medics to use a set of joysticks and a touchscreen to manoeuvre the robotic device. This allows for more precise positioning, and reduces the radiation that both the patient and physician can be exposed to. Dr Arif Al Nooryani, Consultant Cardiologist at Al Qasimi highlighted the positives of the new technology. He said: “The system enables robotic-guided catheter manipulation in addition to guide-wire control as well as balloon/stent delivery. “The CorPath GRX system has been used successfully in 10 patients who suffered from complex cases, the patients were of different nationalities and aged between 35 and 60.” The cost of the operation ranges between Dh25,000 and Dh50,000 (£4600 - £9800), and boasts a 95% reduction in radiation, 99.1% clinical success rate, and an 8.3% reduction in the unnecessary use of additional stents. Dr Al Nooryani added: “While the human hand has a precision ranging from 5mm to 10mm, the robot-assisted surgery can perform surgical procedures with a precision of 1mm.” Sharjah is an all too often overlooked location when it comes to medics seeking a better life overseas. The find out what the Emirate, sometimes called the UAE’s healthcare capital, could offer you, register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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Singapore Tops Asian Expat Report

Singapore has once again been named as the most popular location for Asian expats seeking a better life overseas. The world’s only island-city state scored highly thanks to its extremely low crime rates, high quality educational facilities and lower than average pollution levels - with much of the credit for this given to the city’s high quality, clean and modern public transportation systems. The news came as little surprise to Lee Quane, regional director of ECA International who carried out the survey. He commented: “Singapore has traditionally sat at the top of the ECA rankings and this year is no different.” ECA studied more than 460 cities, and assessed how suitable they would be for Asian expats when compiling their rankings, with both Australia and New Zealand scoring impressively. Brisbane, Adelaide and Sydney made up the three places behind Singapore, whilst Perth, Wellington and Canberra were all in the top ten. Copenhagen in Denmark and Bern in Switzerland were the highest ranked European cities, with London finding itself down in 67th - with rising crime rates and high pollution levels given as the major reason for this. Given how highly it usually ranks in expat reports, it will come as little surprise to many that Singapore is an extremely tricky location to secure a move to. Competition is fierce and job openings are infrequent, and so patience can be the key. To help boost your chances of securing a move to the island, register on our website today. A dream move could be closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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Canadian Medics Reject Pay-rise

Almost a thousand doctors and medical residents in Quebec, Canada, have signed a letter opposing proposals to raise their pay. In an incredible gesture, a total of 865 (at the last count) GPs, specialists, residents and medical students have signed the Médecins Québécois pour le Régime public letter which reads: “We, the doctors of Quebec who believe in a strong public system, oppose the recent salary increases negotiated by our medical federations. “These increases are all the more shocking because our nurses, clerks and other professionals face very difficult working conditions, while our patients live with the lack of access to required services because of the drastic cuts and centralization of power in the Ministry of Health. The only thing that seems to be immune to the cuts is our remuneration “Contrary to the Prime Minister's statements, we believe that there is a way to redistribute the resources of the Quebec health system to promote the health of the population, and meet the needs of patients without pushing workers to the end. “We, Quebec physicians, are asking that the salary increases granted to physicians be canceled, and that the resources of the system be better distributed for the good of the health care workers and to provide health services worthy to the people of Quebec.” Although they have yet to receive an official response, Gaétan Barrette, the province’s Minister for Health, told reporters: “If they feel they’re overpaid, they can leave the money on the table. I guarantee that I can make good use of it.” The selfless gesture presents a question we’d be keen to hear from you on. Would you reject a salary increase if you believe the money would be better spent elsewhere in the sector? Let us know on our social media channels. Register with us to start your journey

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Inside Recruitment: Our TOP 5 CV Writing Tips

For our latest Odyssey Exclusives series we’re going to be doing something a little bit different. Instead of the usual country guides and healthcare insights, we’re going to focus on the recruitment side of recruitment itself! Our team are some of the most experienced in the business, and so we’ve decided to put together a series of articles focusing on our inside knowledge. In the first in our all new and exclusive series, ‘Inside Recruitment’, we’re going to look at five tips for writing the perfect CV. We read hundreds of CVs every year, and the best often share very similar traits - so here’s a look at five ways to make your CV stand out from the crowd. 1 - Formatting You want your CV to convey a professional image, and you can do this straight from the moment an employer opens it with the correct formatting. Don’t ever consider using a funky font - you’d probably be amazed at how many medics believe that helps you stand out! Stick with something corporate such as Arial, Times New Roman or Calibri. Further to this don’t attempt to jazz up your CV with dramatic lines, graphics, images or colours. It needs to look professional, not like a poster. Let the information itself do the talking. When mentioning information it’s very important to present this in a consistent way. Use the same formatting throughout the document - making sure everything has a clear heading, and that any bold or underlined text is replicated throughout. By following those rules your CV should make the right first impression. 2 - Jargon Often people are encouraged to avoid using jargon (words relating to the industry that may not be understood by outsiders) when writing their CV. We couldn’t disagree with this more - albeit accept that it must be used within reason. Don’t be afraid to use words relating to the industry that wouldn’t be understood by outsiders. Your CV is going to be read by professionals, and using industry lingo should help it get through the automated software used to remove any inappropriate applications. If you’ve worked with patients suffering from Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis don’t be afraid to say so! Likewise if you’re experienced in performing Esophagogastroduodenoscopies make sure you include that fact. Avoid overusing medical terms where they aren’t relevant - and make sure to check your spelling(!) - but by following these rules you should be able to effectively showcase your expertise in the field. 3 - References By far the most important part of your CV are the references. Anybody can put down claims in a well formatted document, but only people who are genuinely suitable for a role can provide quality references. We’d recommend trying to have three referees on your report - all of whom hold (or have held) senior positions working alongside you within the specialty. Often people attempt to use colleagues from other departments or friends who hold similar positions as their references, and this is more often than not inappropriate. Always make sure that your references are easily contactable (provide a phone number, work address, mobile number and fax where appropriate). Remember what they say could determine whether or not you secure the role of your dreams. 4 - Development In the medical profession showing a genuine interest in, and connection with, your speciality is absolutely vital in convincing potential employers that you are the right person for the job. It can therefore help you greatly to include details of any personal development you have undertaken over the previous two years or so. This can include courses and seminars that you have attended or spoken at, research carried out or any areas that you have been keen to study in detail. When including this it’s important to also put in who arranged and hosted the event, a small description of the areas it looked at, and the official title used by the organisers. This may seem like a minor area, however it’s one that proves your genuine interest in, and commitment to, the role. 5 - Personal An area that has been overlooked by many of the medics we work with is the importance of keeping it personal. Many CVs create an image of someone who is totally career driven, and who has no interests outside of medicine. This is something to avoid - mainly because it will offer no insights into how you will be able to work as a member of their team. Whether you’re a keen long-distance runner, an amateur football or rugby player, or are fascinated by modern art, include it. It will add a much needed personal touch to the CV, and might even give you a crucial advantage over other candidates. Register with us to start your journey

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Child Saved at Dubai Hospital

Medics at Dubai’s Latifa Hospital successfully saved the life of a child born at just 24 weeks. The infant weighed just 445 grams at birth, similar to a football and less than most bags of sugar! Tragically however his twin, who weighed just 385 grams, was unable to be saved. Both were born at such an early stage after their mother suffered from preeclampsia. Dr Khalid Al Atawi explained to the media the impact that this can have on expectant mothers. He said: “Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterised by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems - most often the liver and kidneys. The condition usually begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women whose blood pressure has been at normal levels. “Left untreated, it can lead to serious, or even fatal, complications for both the mother and the child. The only way to cure the condition is to deliver the baby.” After the child was born, he was immediately transferred to the hospitals’ Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, as work started on saving his life. Dr Al Atawi continued: “The team watched for signs of hypothermia, where the body temperature loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing a dangerous drop in core temperature. “The baby was also given respiratory and cardiovascular support and had to be protected from potential infections.” Head of paediatrics and neonatology at the hospital, Dr Mahmoud Al Halik, added: “Hospitals encourage family involvement to promote a baby’s healthy development from day one. “Neonates are placed in an incubator and once the baby’s condition is stable, healthcare professionals teach the mother and father ‘kangaroo care’, which is skin-to-skin contact between the baby and their parents. “The parents’ reassuring and loving touch is known to have many health benefits.” Dubai may have been impacted by the oil-price slowdown, however it remains a highly popular location with western trained medics seeking a better life overseas. Register on our website today for more information, and the latest job alerts from the Emirates’ busy healthcare market. Register with us to start your journey

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Arriving in...Singapore

Making a career move overseas can be a daunting prospect, however we’re hopeful that we can be of help. In our latest Odyssey Exclusive series, ‘Arriving in…’ we’re going to take a look at your journey to a new life abroad. We’ve aimed to cover all the basics to make sure that you’re as prepared as you can be for the move, and get the most out of life in your new homeland. In the final installment of the series we’ll look at Singapore. The world’s only island-city state is a unique location, and offers some of the world’s most advanced healthcare technology. Getting there: Getting to Singapore is relatively easy, with a number of airlines offering direct routes to the island. There are seven flights a day from London (both Gatwick and Heathrow) and one from Manchester. Singapore Airlines, British Airways and Norwegian Air UK are the three carriers offering direct flights, whilst Emirates and Lufthansa both offer stop-over routes. The flight time is around 12 hours. Singapore Changi Airport itself is one of the region’s busiest and, according to Skytrax, one of the world’s best. It is located around half-an-hour from the city centre, with regular Metro and bus services taking passengers into the heart of the city quickly. Accommodation: Singapore is such a small location that expats are based right across the island. Tiong Bahru, Holland Village and Tanjong Pagar are some of the most popular areas with expats thanks to their proximity to good schools and local amenities. Most people moving to Singapore will likely live in modern, high-rise apartment blocks - although this isn’t the case for everyone. If you’re prepared to live outwith the city’s central business district than houses with land are available - although patience can be the key to securing the home of your dreams. Rent prices are high for the region, and are similar to those in London. A one bedroom city centre flat can cost around £1200 a month, whilst three bedroom homes can be in excess of £3000 monthly. Some employers will provide accommodation, or a housing allowance, to help cover this. Keeping in contact: Time difference aside (Singapore is GMT+8) keeping in contact with those back home from Singapore should be relatively easy. The country’s three big mobile networks (SingTel, StarHub and M1) all offer well priced packages, and a strong signal throughout the island. VOIP calling is legal, and services like WhatsApp, FaceTime and Skype are widely used. Basic rules: Despite its highly modern image, there are still a number of rules that you should follow living in Singapore: Avoid criticising the Government publicly. It’s not illegal, but certain comments could land you in trouble. Chewing gum is illegal. Seriously. Don’t even attempt to import it. Crossing the road in a dangerous spot is an offence, so always stick to pedestrian crossings. Food and drink are banned on the country’s Metro system. Breaking any laws will result in a severe punishment. This makes the city extremely safe, but try and gain some local knowledge of the customs prior to a move. Getting around: Singapore is a tiny island and, despite having a huge population, this makes it very easy to get around. The city’s MRT (Metro Rapid Transit) system is the easiest way to explore the island. It’s good value, quick, efficient, reliable and extremely clean - thanks to some of the rules detailed above. If this isn’t appealing to you, then there is also a well developed and extremely efficient bus system - which transports around 3 million people every single day. Taxis are also readily available, but during peak times they can be expensive - and traffic can seriously slow down a commute. It’s possible to buy a car in the country too, however heavy import taxes make this far more expensive that it would be at home. Expect to pay in the region of £116,000 for a BMW 3-series that, in the UK, would cost around £30,000. Things to see: Singapore may be small, but it’s packed with plenty to keep you occupied - and everything can usually be reached within an hour! The Singapore Flyer, the country’s iconic ferris wheel which offers incredible views across the city. Night Safari Zoo, the world’s first nocturnal zoo allows you to see some unique animals within an incredible setting. The Singapore Grand-Prix, set on the streets around Marina Bay, the annual Singapore F1 GP takes place every September, creating a week-long party atmosphere. Fort Siloso, a gun battery from the Second World War that has recently been restored and is now home to a museum. Universal Studios Singapore, a theme park with more than 24 rides and plenty of other facilities to entertain the whole family. The working environment: Despite its Westernised image, the working environment in Singapore still retains plenty of Asian tradition: Be prepared to work hard, the culture in Singapore demands hard work and, often, long hours. The workplace is very risk-averse, with most employers very cautious about potentially risky situations. Hierarchical relationships still exist, so always treat more experienced colleagues with a great degree of respect. ‘Saving face’ is important, as it is throughout Asia. Avoid making any comments that could embarrass colleagues publically, address issues privately and directly. Collectivism, teamwork is very important in the country, so be prepared to work closely with others. Don’t forget: Organise your finances before making the move, have you converted enough money, do you have an overseas bank account, should you be paying any tax at home? Will your credit/debit cards work abroad? Is your airport pickup sorted, and do you know where you’re staying when you arrive? Do you have a phone that will work in your new location? When is your official start date? Register with us to start your journey

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Arriving in...Beijing

Making a career move overseas can be a daunting prospect, however we’re hopeful that we can be of help. In our latest Odyssey Exclusive series, ‘Arriving in…’ we’re going to take a look at your journey to a new life abroad. We’ll aim to cover all the basics to make sure that you’re as prepared as you can be for the move, and get the most out of life in your new homeland. In the penultimate installment in the series we’ll look at Beijing, the capital of China, a location which looks set to have an exciting future as a leader in global healthcare. Getting there: Despite being in the Far East, getting to Beijing from the UK is relatively straightforward. The city is a major hub for business in Asia, and as a result is a busy route for those involved in a range of different industries. Air China, Virgin Atlantic and British Airways all offer direct flights from London Heathrow to Beijing Capital International Airport, whilst a number of other airlines (SAS, Finnair and Air Astana) all offer flights with layovers. Beijing itself is an absolutely vast city, and so journey times to the popular residential areas from the airport can vary. Most expats choose to live in the east of the city and, depending on traffic conditions, this is often little more than an hour from the airport. Accommodation: As previously mentioned most expats moving to Beijing choose to live in the east of the city; mainly in Chaoyang, Dongcheng and Shunyi. The city itself is vast, and there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing accommodation. These range from traditional Chinese houses with courtyards, to modern skyscrapers, detached villas and townhouses. Where you choose to live will depend on your circumstances. If you value space over location then most people will live outwith the city centre, whereas those looking to be right at the heart of the action will sacrifice living space for location. Keeping in contact: It can be difficult to reach home from Beijing, with a lengthy time difference and strictly controlled internet making communicating tricky. Messaging service WhatsApp is currently banned in the country, however communicating using Skype is still possible. Social media networks like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, and search engines like Google and Bing can only be accessed by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). For mobile phones, China Mobile offers quick data access speeds, and faultless coverage countrywide, whilst China Unicom can offer more attractive deals, however their coverage isn’t as strong in more remote areas. Basic rules: China is still a Communist country, and as a result there are a number of rules to be aware of. We’ve compiled a quick list of five to know before making the move: Avoid criticising the Government in public, this could land you in serious trouble. Keep greetings formal, a handshake is more than enough even for a close colleague. The rules of the road are totally different! Giving way is seen as a sign of weakness, and so we’d recommend employing a driver, or jumping in a taxi to get around. Don’t attempt to take bring in potentially controversial literature, this can be confiscated at the airport - and could even lead to deportation. Contracts are written in both English and Chinese, however only the Chinese version is legally binding. Make sure to get it translated by a trusted friend, expert or colleague. Getting around: Beijing is vast city - more than ten times bigger than Greater London, and with a population of more than 21 million. As a result exploring it can take time, patience and a bit of local knowledge. Using the modern, clean Metro system is probably the easiest way to get about - with the system well signposted in English. Taxis are also readily available - though not during peak times, whilst there are bus routes throughout the city, however travelling times can be lengthy. If you’re looking to explore further afield then travelling by air is really the only option. The airport is the world’s 13th busiest, and offers domestic and international routes to help you explore the rest of the Far East easily. Things to see: Chinese culture is still evident throughout Beijing, despite its modern facade. There is therefore plenty to see and do in one of the world’s most interesting cities: The Great Wall of China - You couldn’t possibly visit China without visiting one of the world’s most iconic historical sights which stretches for more than 13,000 miles. The Forbidden City - home of the ruling Chinese dynasties from 1420 until 1912, this is another historical sight that is not to be missed. Tiananmen Square - Perhaps the most iconic image of China, you can feel the history as soon as you visit the square. Chaoyang Theater - Showcases the best in traditional and contemporary Chinese entertainment. The Workers' Stadium - Hardly an architectural marvel, however for sports fans the home ground of the Chinese national football team is worth a visit. The working environment: The Chinese working environment is unique, with tradition still playing a key role in the formalities of business: Be prepared to be a leader. As a Western trained medic your opinion will be taken very seriously, so arrive with ideas, and be prepared to be asked plenty of questions. ‘Saving Face’ is a uniquely Asian concept, whereby you have to keep your ‘honour’ by acting in a way that shows respect and humility. We’d recommend reading up on it prior to a move. If you’re handing over a business card, do so with both hands. Personal questions are often asked at the start of a meeting, to try and establish common ground and make both parties feel comfortable. Always refer to someone by their title, unless they ask otherwise. It is seen as respectful. Don’t forget: Organise your finances before making the move, have you converted enough money, do you have an overseas bank account, should you be paying any tax at home? Will your credit/debit cards work abroad? Is your airport pickup sorted, and do you know where you’re staying when you arrive? Do you have a phone that will work in your new location? When is your official start date? Register with us to start your journey

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Arriving in...Dubai

Making a career move overseas can be a daunting prospect, however we’re hopeful that we can be of help. In our latest Odyssey Exclusive series, ‘Arriving in…’ we’re going to take a look at your journey to a new life abroad. We’ll aim to cover all the basics to make sure that you’re as prepared as you can be for the move, and get the most out of life in your new home. Our penultimate installment will look at Dubai, still the most popular destination with expat medics seeking a better life overseas.. Getting there: Getting to Dubai could hardly be any easier. There are 24 flights to the Emirate from the UK every single day, all of which are direct. Emirates, Qantas, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Royal Brunei Airlines all offer flights from London, whilst Emirates also offer direct routes from Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham and Newcastle. The journey time is around seven hours, and with so many flights available good deals are easy to find. Getting to your accommodation from the vast Dubai International Airport itself won’t be an issue, with plenty of taxis and the Metro available to get you to the major residential areas in under an hour. Accommodation: Throughout the Emirates accommodation is often provided by employers, usually within secure compounds. This is a case for most of the major employers in Dubai too, who will offer high quality, modern homes and apartments to employees. As always we’d urge you to visit these first, and do some research into the area to make sure it will suit your needs. Throughout the Emirate the standard of living is high however, so you’re unlikely to face any major issues. Keeping in contact: Staying in touch with those back home when you’re in Dubai is unlikely to be an issue. Throughout the Emirate the mobile phone signal is strong, with Etisalat being the country’s most popular network. Voice over internet protocol (VOIP) calling however has recently been made illegal, meaning that Apple’s FaceTime and WhatsApp voice calling cannot be used - however Skype remains popular with those looking to video call friends and relatives. Basic rules: Despite its Westernised image, the UAE remains an Islamic country, and so there are certain rules and customs that should be followed by those living there. Here are five you should know about in advance: It is illegal to purchase and drink alcohol in your home without a liquor license. There is zero tolerance to drink driving, or being caught drunk in public. Showing affection in public could land you in prison. Holding hands with your husband/wife will be accepted, however anything beyond this won’t be tolerated. Dress conservatively outwith the compounds. This is less of an issue than it is in Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, however should still be adhered to in Dubai. Eating, drinking or smoking in public during Ramadan is forbidden Sharing living accommodation with an unmarried non-relative is illegal, and something we’d strongly advise you avoid. Laws are less strict in compounds, however issues can (and do) still arise. Getting around: Exploring Dubai is easy. As a city built on a strong expat community, and worldwide tourism there are plenty of quick, cheap, easy ways to get around. Taxis are popular and, with plenty available and the seriously low cost of fuel, they are one of the cheapest ways to get around. Dubai also has a fully automated Metro system, regarded as one of the world’s most modern and technically advanced. There are also plenty of buses (with air-conditioned shelters), ferries and even an increasingly advanced cycle-network in the Emirate. People can take to the roads themselves too, however with the standard of driving somewhat lower than in most of Europe we’d recommend waiting a while before venturing out of the compounds! Things to see: As a hugely popular tourism destination, Dubai has plenty to see and do, so we’ve compiled a quick list of five things not to miss out on: Burj Khalifa. Of course you couldn’t possibly visit the UAE and not take a trip to the top of the world’s tallest building. Offering stunning views this engineering wonder will leave you speechless - and breathless if you attempt to use the stairs! Dubai Mall, the world’s biggest shopping centre caters for all tastes, with plenty of the planet’s biggest brands represented. Al Bastakiya District, in amongst a sea of modern architecture, this hidden gem hints at what life used to be like. Dubai Creek, a saltwater creek perfect for evening meals or quiet walks out with the busy city centre. Ski Dubai. Yes. Really. You can actually go skiing in Dubai on real snow in the Middle East’s first indoor ski slope! The working environment: Working in Dubai can be a unique experience, so we’ve compiled a quick list of things to expect: A multinational environment. The Emirate is home to a diverse population. Expect to work with people from all over the world - even in the smaller hospitals and clinics. Be prepared to be patient, as administrative tasks can often take a great deal of time. Discrimination is widespread. If an employer is looking for a native English speaking member of staff it usually means a white British/American/Canadian/Australian/Kiwi. Being late is accepted. In fact it’s something that is the case regionwide. It’s rare for meetings to start or end on time as a result. Ramadan will have an impact on your life, Muslim or not. Be prepared for this, and be respectful to the wishes of your colleagues and patients during the month. Don’t forget: Organise your finances before making the move, have you converted enough money, do you have an overseas bank account, should you be paying any tax at home? Will your credit/debit cards work abroad? Is your airport pickup sorted, and do you know where you’re staying when you arrive? Do you have a phone that will work in your new location? When is your official start date? Register with us to start your journey

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Dubai Leading the way in AI

Residents in Dubai are open to the greater involvement of Artificial Intelligence in health it’s been revealed. Speaking at a keynote speech to delegates at Madinat Jumeirah, Dr Tim Wilson, Middle East Industries Expert for PWC, highlighted that those in the Gulf are more open than most to the use of AI in healthcare. He said: “Two-thirds of Middle Eastern respondents are willing to replace human doctors with AI and robots. “The UAE is a country whose rulers have the vision to appoint the first AI minister in the world, and when you combine that with the work being done by the Dubai Health Authority, I think that central spot of AI-enhanced tourist care is going to be taken and owned by the UAE and specifically by Dubai.” “AI is already here, but by 2020 we need 30,000 more doctors in the region and this is where AI plays a major part”, he added. Dr Layla Al Marzouqi, Director of Dubai’s Medical Tourism Council, highlighted why the Emirate is leading the way in healthcare AI. She said: “Dubai's strategic location, diagnostic and treatment services and competitive packages and infrastructure places the city on the right path to becoming a favourite destination for medical tourism, hence achieving Dubai's goal of attracting 500,000 medical tourists by 2020. “To better allow medical tourists to plan their trips when visiting Dubai for treatment, the Dubai Health Experience (DXH) project was launched, providing a one-stop electronic portal for medical tourists to book tickets and access comprehensive information about health care services, visas, hotels and other services and packages.” For more information on working within Dubai’s growing medical tourism industry, register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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