Odyssey Recruitment

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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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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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Arriving in...Jubail City - Saudi Arabia

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. As we come towards the end of the series we’re returning to Saudi Arabia, this time to look at Jubail City in the Kingdom’s Eastern Province. A location that is far less well known than the major cities of Riyadh and Jeddah. Getting there: Getting to Jubail City itself can be trickier than moving to one of Saudi’s major locations. There are no direct flights, however a number of airlines offer single-stop routes from London Heathrow. Turkish Airlines, MEA and EgyptAir all offer attractive prices, however most people choose to book with Gulf Air. They offer a direct flight to Bahrain, followed by a short 35 minute flight up the Gulf to King Fahd International Airport. The airport itself is modern, having been opened less than 20 years ago, and the travel time to Jubail City itself is around 50 minutes. Accommodation: Most expat medics moving to Jubail City will choose to live in the compounds located around the edge of the central business district. These offer plenty of amenities and a laid back way of life, as well as high quality housing. Of the various options Murjan Village is considered one of the most popular. Located on the pristine shores of the Gulf to the north of the city, it offers stunning views and high class accommodation. Rent prices are, on average, some 82% lower than they are in London, and although this saving can be reduced considerably depending on where you stay, it’s unlikely that the cost of living will be higher. Wherever you choose to move though we’d recommend always viewing property first, and speaking to expats with established local knowledge to avoid finding yourself in an unexpectedly unpleasant situation. Keeping in contact: Despite being one of the world’s most secretive countries, communicating from Saudi Arabia can be quite easy. Internet speeds are reasonable, and are improving, whilst a ban on VOIP calling was abolished in September - allowing Whatsapp to be used for calls. STC is the most popular mobile network in the Kingdom, and it offers a strong signal at a competitive rate. Mobily and Zain are the other firms popular with expats. Basic rules: Saudi Arabia remains a strictly Islamic country, and religion still dominates everyday life. Things are more relaxed in Jubail however, and attitudes are slowly beginning to change as the Kingdom starts to progress towards a more liberal way of life. Despite this there are still a few things that you have to know before you arrive: Life stops five times a day for prayer. We’d recommend downloading an app with prayer times to help you plan shopping trips. Until a new law is passed in June, women cannot drive vehicles. Possessing alcohol can result in a heavy fine, or even custodial sentence. Always use your right-hand in a handshake, as your left is considered unclean. Woman still have to wear the veil in public, however they don’t have to cover their faces. This practice is only followed by the natives. Getting around: Saudi Arabia is a huge country, with flights the best way to explore longer distances. Its location in the heart of the Gulf makes it perfect for visiting neighbouring locations like Bahrain, the UAE and Oman, whilst Mecca is a must-visit for Muslims making the move. Jubail itself is perfectly located for weekend getaways. You can drive to Bahrain via the incredible King Fahd Causeway in just over two hours, whilst the relaxed town of Al Khobar is just over an hour away. For further afield journeys flying is the only option, and there are plenty of flights available to locations throughout the Gulf. Locally taxis are cheap and available in great numbers, making them ideal for exploring the city itself. Things to see and do: Despite being viewed by many as purely somewhere to enhance your earnings, Jubail does offer a small variety of things to see and do - and with travelling easy you’re unlikely to be bored. Al Fanateer Beach - One of Saudi’s best beaches, it provides a relaxing break from the busy city lifestyle. Galleria Mall - There are three malls in Jubail, but the Galleria is the most popular with expats. There are plenty of shops and restaurants for the whole family. Watersports - Whether it’s windsurfing, scuba diving or boating Jubail City will be able to offer it. IHG Hotel, Jubail City - The city’s premier hotel doesn’t just offer high quality accommodation, it has an excellent on-site restaurant, and plays host to plenty of events throughout the year. Bahrain - We know, it’s not in Jubail - but the two hour journey to Bahrain is well worth doing - and it’s so close it’s practically local. The working environment: Working in Saudi Arabia can be daunting, so we’ve compiled a quick list of what to expect: Be prepared to work independently. As an experienced, Western trained medic you’ll be expected to work with less assistance than elsewhere. A hierarchical structure remains, where the final decisions are made by those in positions of power. Sunday to Thursday is the working week, with a Friday/Saturday weekend. Be prepared for lengthy waits for administrative tasks. Employers can, and occasionally do, end contracts with little notice. This means that a move isn’t ideal for someone looking for long-term security. 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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Lung Cancer Tumours More Complex in Asians - Study Finds

A Singapore lead study has revealed that lung cancer tumours in Asians are genetically more complex than previously thought, making them more difficult to treat. The recently published report, which was a joint venture between the Genome Institute of Singapore and the National Cancer Centre of Singapore, analysed 79 tumour sections from patients throughout the region. It showed that Cancer cells in the lungs of Asian patients took more varied genetic mutations than those in Caucasian patients. Dr Tam Wai Leong, one of the study’s principal investigators explained the findings. He said: “We like to think that tumours contain cancer cells that are all the same, but surprisingly enough, cancer cells within a tumour may bear different genetic mutations to varying extents. “Our study revealed that cancer cells in lung tumours of Asian patients appeared to have more varied genetic mutations than lung tumours of Caucasian patients. "Additional genetic mutations can make Asian lung tumours harder to treat, as they tend to adapt and resist the drugs that are administered.” Dr Tam and his colleagues spotted the mutations in more than 50% of Singaporean lung cancer patients - and it was especially prevalent in non-smoking women. Dr Daniel Tan, senior consultant medical oncologist at the National Cancer Centre Singapore, hopes that the study’s findings can be used to reduce the death rate, with the condition considered the country’s biggest killer. He added: “Further work needs to focus on identifying drug combinations or treatment strategies that take into account the tumours' ability to develop resistance to different treatments.” Job opportunities in Singapore are always highly sought after. To get in ahead of the rest, register on our website for job alerts today. A dream move could be closer than you might think. Register with us to start your journey

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Arriving in...Auckland

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 sixth installment in this series we’re going to take a look at Auckland in New Zealand, a location that is increasingly popular, especially with British expats seeking a more relaxed life overseas.. Getting there: Unless you currently reside in Australia, getting to Auckland on New Zealand’s North Island is likely to involve a lengthy amount of time in the air. There are no direct flights from the UK to New Zealand - as the distance is simply too far for planes to travel. Instead all flights involve layovers in hub airports. Qantas offer the majority of flights, with the Australian airlines’ route involving stops in Dubai and Melbourne. If the thought of two stops is too much then Cathay Pacific offer a route from Heathrow that only stops in Hong Kong. Auckland Airport itself is New Zealand’s busiest and largest, offering flights throughout the country, Asia-Pacific region and beyond. The airport is just 25 minutes by car from the centre of the town, and getting around is easy on the country’s well maintained and well policed road network. Accommodation: As a well-developed, Western city, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to accommodation. Whether you are after a traditional ranch style family home or a modern skyscraping apartment you’ll find it in Auckland. Rent prices are attractive too - on average 40% lower than they are in London, with a 3 bedroom city centre apartment costing around £1700 a month in rent - a figure that drops drastically as you leave the city. Keeping in contact: Whilst the time difference can be a major barrier to getting in touch with friends and family in the UK, keeping in contact shouldn’t be a major issue.There are three main mobile networks in the country; Vodafone New Zealand, Spark and 2Degrees - with Vodafone offering the best signal quality countrywide. Internet speeds are strong, and the web is uncontrolled, allowing you to use apps like Skype, Facetime, WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger to VOIP call those back home. Basic rules: New Zealand is a Westernised location where the way of life is similar in many ways to that followed in Europe. There are a few things you should make sure you know prior to making the move though: Be prepared for gravel roads - even some of New Zealand’s main roads are still gravel, so prepare to adapt your driving style. Never confuse a Kiwi with an Australian! Be prepared to work with the Māori people and their traditions. There is no tax-free income in New Zealand Be prepared for all weather conditions - even in summer! Getting around: Auckland itself is relatively small by the standard of many modern cities. Home to just over 1.5 million people, road is the most popular method of travelling, with 93% of journeys taken by car. The city is also home to a developed bus system, and modern metro, both of which make commuting simple. For journeys further afield, Auckland International Airport offers flights throughout the world - making it especially ideal for exploring the Pacific Islands. Things to see: Auckland is considered one of the most important cities to the Arts in the world, meaning that there are plenty of fascinating places to visit: The Auckland Arts Festival - held in March each year showcases some of the finest new films and artwork in the world. A true cultural experience. Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki - has one of the most extensive collections of artwork in the country. Eden Park - sport dominates life in Auckland, and the city’s Eden Park plays host to world class cricket, rugby and football events. Tiritiri Matangi Island - a staggeringly beautiful wildlife sanctuary located 30km northeast of the city. Sky Tower - offers outstanding views over the city, especially at sunset. The working environment: Expat medics normally find the business of healthcare in New Zealand to be a pleasant change from that in the UK: Overseas experiences will be listened to - especially if you’ve worked outwith the UK before. There is very little in the way of red-tape. Administrative tasks are usually efficiently dealt with. New Zealand was ranked as the second easiest country to do business in, in 2016. Greetings (and meetings) are usually relatively informal, with a handshake and eye contact are key. 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?

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Mental Health Issues in Canada Rise

The scale of Canada’s battle with mental health conditions has been revealed, with only one in five young Canadians receiving the support they need. Recent statistics have suggested that 3 million young people are at risk of developing chronic depression in Canada, whilst it is estimated that 20% of all Canadians will battle a mental health condition during their lives. Identified by the World Health Organisation as one of the major challenges of our time, experts believe that creating healthy environments could be the key to treating the issues preventatively. Currently mental health support makes up 7% of Canada’s health funding - with 12% of young females and 5% of young males (believed to be a misleading figure due to the masculine stigma) having experienced serious depression before the age of 20. Mental illness can take many forms however, with depression and anxiety considered the most common. It is estimated that half of all people with these issues will never seek help. As the stigma around mental illness begins to lift however, it is now hoped that more people will be prepared to speak openly about their challenges - allowing work to start on combating the problems. If you believe your skills could help Canada in its battle with mental illness, 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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Abu Dhabi Medics Save 48hr Old Child

Medics at Danat Al Emarat Hospital in Abu Dhabi successfully performed life saving surgery on a 48 hour old child earlier this month. The Emirati infant was born just two days earlier, with twisted ovaries and internal bleeding as a result of large ovarian cyst. According to the team who carried out the surgery, it was just the third case of this type in the world. During the three hour long procedure the patient’s ovaries were restored to normal, two cysts were removed, her bleeding was managed and the severe adhesions noted in her intestines were treated. Speaking about the life saving event Raja Cingapagu, paediatric surgeon at Danat Al Emarat said: “The girl was born in the 35th week of pregnancy, and the tests revealed that the baby suffered from ovarian torsion and bleeding due to large ovarian cysts in both ovaries, sized over five centimetres, although the ovary is usually not more than one centimetre at this age. “48 hours after her birth, an urgent surgical operation was decided based on the results of the tests. We had to perform laparoscopic surgery, during which the cyst was removed from each ovary, and both ovaries were untwisted to their normal position. The bleeding was stopped, and the accumulated blood was removed. “Performing the surgery at the right time was essential in saving the life of the little girl while keeping the ovaries intact without any complications and without affecting the organs.” Register with us to start your journey

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Australia's Processed Food Causing High Salt Intake

A new study published this week has shown that Australian men are eating twice the amount of salt considered safe by the World Health Organisation. According to the research lead by Professor Bruce Neal of the George Institute for Global Health, Aussie men are taking in 10.1 grams of salt a day on average - well beyond the WHO’s recommended 5 gram maximum. Writing in the Medical Journal of Australia, the research team said: “Despite a steady improvement in mortality rates over the past three decades, cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in Australia, reducing the population’s salt intake is projected to be one of the most cost-effective strategies for reducing rates of premature death, and disability attributable to high blood pressure and vascular disease.” Women don’t fare an awful lot better in the report, which involved more than 16,000 respondents, with their salt intake said to be around 7.34 grams a day on average. Professor Neal and his team were quick to highlight one of the key reasons for the major issues. Hidden salts. He continued: “The majority of this excess salt we're eating is hidden in processed foods, you shouldn't be putting salt on food because it's not good for you, but that's not the main issue here. “The issue is that 85% of the average Australian's daily salt intake comes from meats, cheeses, cereals and soups.” According to Australian Bureau of Statistics figures, one person dies every 12 minutes as a result of cardiovascular disease in the country. Over time this figure has dropped slightly - however it remains the biggest single killer ‘down under’. To start your Odyssey to Australia, register on our website for job alerts today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine. Register with us to start your journey

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Arriving In...Shanghai

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. Part five of our exclusive series will look at Shanghai in China, a location where we’ve recently started seeing a notable increase in interest from Western medics. Getting there: Despite being in the Far East, getting to Shanghai for 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. British Airways and China Eastern Airlines both operate direct flights from London Heathrow, whilst other carriers such as Lufthansa, China Southern Airlines and Swiss Global Airlines all offer flights with layovers. Shanghai Pudong International Airport itself is located to the very east of the city, and offers a direct rail service into the heart of Shanghai. The journey time for this is around 45 minutes, rising to an hour if you choose to travel by road. Accommodation: The price of accommodation in Shanghai reflects the city’s new found wealth and prosperity. Most expats will live in modern high-rise blocks, which have plenty of facilities on offer - but can feel small at first. A modern, furnished two-bedroom apartment in a good area will cost between £1500 and £1800 per month, however this figure can fluctuate dramatically depending on how close to the city you want to be. Some employers will include a contribution towards the cost of rent, and we’d always advise speaking to someone with local knowledge before signing a deal on a property - to make sure the area is right for you. Keeping in contact: It can be difficult to reach home from Shanghai, 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 offer 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 still 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 in any 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 or colleague. Getting around: Shanghai itself is a relatively easy city to explore, despite being absolutely colossal in size. The city has a highly efficient public transport system, making it quick and easy to get about by train, metro, ferry or bus. If you’re looking to explore the rest of China then air is the best option. Shanghai Pudong International Airport offers a range of daily flights throughout the country - often at appealing prices. The flight time to Beijing is around two-and-a-half hours. Things to see: Despite having a cutting-edge facade, Shanghai is home to some stunning historical monuments, and plenty of fascinating sights that give you a unique insight into Chinese culture. The China Art Palace, is one of the biggest art galleries in Asia, and attracts more than two million visitors annually. Yuyuan Garden, located in the old part of Shanghai is a beautiful oasis in an otherwise bustling, modern metropolis. Jade Buddha Temple, you can’t visit China without knowing more about Buddhism, and the Jade temple is one of the most beautiful in the country. Shanghai Museum, a striking looking building that is home to a large collection of ancient Chinese art. The Shanghai International Circuit, hosts the Chinese round of the Formula 1 World Championship, with a party-like atmosphere evident city-wide all week. 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...Riyadh

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 fourth in our exclusive series we’re going to look at Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia and a city where adaption can take time.. Getting there: There are two daily non-stop flights from London Heathrow to Riyadh, and a collection of in-direct flights from other, smaller airports. Saudia Airlines and British Airways operate the direct routes, which take around six and-a-half hours and are priced upwards of £550. Turkish Airlines, AirFrance, Gulf Air and Lufthansa (amongst others) all offer flights with stopovers, which can be cheaper. King Khalid International Airport itself is located just a short half hour drive from the centre of the city, making it easy to get to most of the popular expat compounds and residential areas. Accommodation: Most expat medics moving to Riyadh will live in the compounds to the north and east of the city. As Riyadh is one of the country’s most conservative locations, these areas can provide a more relaxed way of life, with plenty of amenities and facilities on offer within a well-kept entertainment. If you decide not to take up compound living, then there is plenty of accommodation in the city itself. Standards can vary greatly however, so we’d urge you to never rent an apartment or house without viewing it first. Property prices can be a major attraction. On average they are 55% lower than they are in Dubai, and over 70% less than the equivalent in London! Keeping in contact: Despite being one of the world’s most secretive countries, communicating from Saudi Arabia can be quite easy. Internet speeds are reasonable, and are improving, whilst a ban on VOIP calling was abolished in September - allowing Whatsapp to be used for calls. STC is the most popular mobile network in the Kingdom, and it offers a strong signal throughout Riyadh at a competitive rate. Mobily and Zain are the other firms popular with expats. Basic rules: Saudi Arabia remains a strictly Islamic country, and Riyadh is absolutely no exception to this rule. Gradually Saudi is starting to become more liberal, however these are five things you can’t move to the Kingdom without knowing about: Life in Riyadh stops five times a day for prayer. We’d recommend downloading an app with prayer times to help you plan shopping trips. Until a new law is passed in June, women cannot drive vehicles. Possessing alcohol can result in a heavy fine, or even custodial sentence. Always use your right-hand in a handshake, as your left is considered unclean. It’s illegal to hold two passports in Saudi Arabia, and you risk having one confiscated if caught with a second. Getting around: Saudi Arabia is a huge country, with flights the best way to explore longer distances. Its location in the heart of the Gulf makes it perfect for visiting neighbouring locations like Bahrain, the UAE and Oman, whilst Mecca is a must-visit for Muslims making the move. Exploring Riyadh itself is best done by taxi. Plenty are cheaply available, and the roads can be intimidating for even the most experienced Western drivers! Things to see: Despite being viewed by many as purely somewhere to enhance your earnings, Riyadh is home to some fascinating museums which detail the Kingdom’s rich history. The National Museum of Saudi Arabia, offers a unique insight into the region’s past, and hints at what the future may hold. Masmak Fort, a stunning clay and mud-brick fort located in the oldest part of the city. Salaam Park, an oasis in the city, providing a rare green space in the otherwise dusty desert. Royal Saudi Air Force Museum, featuring civil and military aircraft from the Kingdom’s past. Burj Rafal Hotel, the tallest residential building in Riyadh offers sensational views and high quality accommodation for a special night away. The working environment: Working in Saudi Arabia can be daunting, so we’ve compiled a quick list of what to expect: Be prepared to work independently. As an experienced, Western trained medic you’ll be expected to work with less assistance than elsewhere. A hierarchical structure remains, where the final decisions are made by those in positions of power. Sunday to Thursday is the working week, with a Friday/Saturday weekend. Be prepared for lengthy waits for administrative tasks. Employers can, and occasionally do, end contracts with little notice. This means that a move isn’t ideal for someone looking for long-term security. 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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Australia facing rural mental health crisis

Australia’s Royal Flying Doctor Service has warned that rural areas of the country are now facing a mental health crisis. Speaking on ABC Radio this week, Chief Executive of the service, Martin Laverty, said: “Five times as many people in cities are accessing mental health services compared to those in remote Australia. “If that's not a crisis, I don't know what a crisis is. "Last year the Flying Doctors saw 24,500 people to provide mental health counselling, but we could double or triple that service tomorrow and still not touch the surface”, he continued. Laverty’s comments come on the back of statistics being released that showed 15 rural areas in Australia had no registered psychiatrists. “These are areas where perhaps you're not surprised to see that there aren't health professionals in abundance.” Laverty added. “However that should be no excuse in a country with universal access to healthcare.” Mental illness is a massive area of concern in Australia, and that is something that Health Minister, Greg Hunt, is all too aware of. Responding to Laverty’s comments he said: “I do believe there is a very significant challenge and this is because there are four million Australians every year who have some form of mental health issue. “In rural areas this is a significant challenge which is precisely why we are looking at additional services. “No matter where you are, in the middle of the night, if it's 3am and there is a dark, dark moment you need to be able to speak to somebody or you need to get help.” Australia is continuing to attract a steady stream of medics looking to leave Europe, especially those looking to escape the struggling NHS. Offering a laid-back lifestyle, generous salaries and a great work/life balance it’s not hard to see why either. For more information on how to secure a move, and the latest job alerts, 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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Arriving in...Perth

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 third in this exclusive series we’re going to look at Western Australia. A vast region that is home to Perth, one of the country’s major cities. Getting there: Despite the lengthy flight time, getting to Australia isn’t a major issue - with almost all major carriers and airports operating flights to the country. Flying to Perth is an option, with Emirates, Etihad, Qantas, KLM and Virgin Australia all offering services via Dubai. From March 2018 Qantas will also offer a direct flight from London Heathrow to Perth for the very first time, making travelling even easier. Perth Airport itself is located near the heart of the city, however it’s worth researching the distance between the airport and your new place of work. Western Australia is an enormous region, and travelling even halfway across it to a town like Kalgoorlie can take more than six hours by car. Accommodation: Accomodation in Western Australia can vary depending on where you are based. If you choose to live near the city centre then modern apartment blocks, and smaller townhouses are common, whilst the further into the suburbs or countryside you go the more you’ll get for your money. Rent prices are around 23% lower than they are in London, however the cost of living can come as a shock, with groceries and utilities both costing more than they would in the UK. Keeping in contact: Staying in touch with family back home from Western Australia is only likely to hit one major hurdle - the time difference. Perth is eight hours ahead of GMT, making it potentially awkward to find a suitable time to call. Internet speeds are good - especially in the city itself - whilst mobile networks Telstra, Virgin and Vodafone all offer strong signals, and expanding 4G coverage. Basic rules: Australia is as liberal and as free a country as you’re likely to find, however there are a few rules to follow whilst living there: Be open and friendly with the locals, just as they are with you. Acting secretively isn’t going to help you fit in with the relaxed Aussie population. Don’t approach the wildlife without an expert. Koala bears may look cuddly, but they can be dangerous! Don’t schedule any meetings for Friday afternoons. Australians are very fair people, and so it’s normal to equally split any bills if you’re out for dinner or drinks. Contracts are often based on weekly or fortnightly rates - so if you see a deal that looks too good to be true, make sure to read the small print! Getting around: Australia is a huge country, and Perth is frequently referred to as the most remote city on earth. The nearest city of more than one million people is Adelaide - over 2,000km away! As a result it’s best to travel by plane. Most remote villages in Western Australia will have a small airport nearby, with plenty of cheap flights available to help you get around. For medics there are a small number of ‘flying doctors’, who work for the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia, one of the world’s most comprehensive aeromedical services. Things to see: Despite being surrounded by dusty outback, there is plenty to see and do in Western Australia - especially if natural beauty is your thing. We’ve compiled a quick list of five things not to miss out on: Kings Park & Botanic Garden - Located near the centre of Perth, this stunning green space feels like an oasis in the busy city. Cable Beach - Where you can watch the sunset over the ocean, whilst enjoying a quiet drink in a beachside bar. Fremantle Prison - Designated as a World Heritage Site in 2010, this former prison offers a range of fascinating guided tours. The Art Gallery of Western Australia - The main art gallery in the region offers a range of permanent and travelling exhibitions, covering everything from modern to indigenous art. Western Australian Museum - Learn more about the history of where you’re now living in the country’s oldest museum. The working environment: Working in Australia can be a unique experience, so we’ve created a little list of things to expect: Smart business attire should be worn to all meetings. Usually a suit, with black shoes and a black belt. Don’t be afraid to speak up, even if your opinion differs from those you are with. That shows engagement in the conversation topic, and is preferable to not contributing at all. Avoid common business clichés, Australians are straight talking and want to get to the point. Stay humble. Don’t be afraid to talk up your achievements where relevant, however avoid boasting. It won’t go down well. Arrive early, as it’s common for meetings to start and finish ahead of schedule. 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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Further Calls for 'Sugar Tax' in Australia

A sugar tax could be back on the agenda in Australia, with the country’s medical association calling on the Government to follow the likes of the UK and Portugal in introducing a levy, to deter people from unhealthy products. Director of Public Health at the AMA, Simon Tatz, was scathing in his assessment of high sugar drinks. He said: “Sugar-sweetened beverages have absolutely no food value. “The AMA has a policy of price differentiation making a difference to people's behaviour. That's what we saw with tobacco and that's why we support a sugar tax. “For the AMA, taxing sugary drinks is far from the single solution to the obesity or diabetes epidemics, but it's a good place to start.” His comments arrived after the AMA’s position statement on nutrition for 2018 highlighted the potential health benefits of ditching sugary beverages. It said: ‘There is ongoing concern about the health implications of a diet high in refined and added sugar. While some sugar is naturally occurring in foods such as fruit, vegetables and dairy, it is the addition of sugar to processed foods that is concerning. ‘Sugary beverages provide individuals with large quantities of sugar and provide little or no satiety. Australians consume large quantities of soft drinks. Large container sizes of soft drinks are significantly cheaper than single servings, which also contributes to overconsumption. Flavoured waters, sports drinks and fruit juices also contain significant quantities of added sugars. Energy drinks are popular among young people. These beverages also contain large quantities of caffeine and should not be readily available to those under the age of 18. The AMA supports proposals to apply a tax or levy to sugar-sweetened beverages in Australia in order to reduce consumption. ‘People must be encouraged to drink water and it should be the default beverage option, including all instances where a beverage is provided with a meal. Consuming fluoridated tap water provides additional benefits, including the strengthening of tooth enamel, making teeth more resistant and reducing early decay.’ Despite the clear benefits of reducing people’s sugar consumption however, the calls have so far been dismissed by both the ruling Liberal and challenging Labour parties. Current Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, told reporters last year that he believed current labelling laws and codes of conduct to prevent children being targeted were tough enough. Meanwhile bosses at the country’s large and influential soft drinks manufacturers have warned that a tax would cost jobs, hit the poorest in society, and have little impact. We’re interested to know how you feel about a sugar tax. Is it something that you would support, or would it represent too much state interference in everyday life? For more information on working in Australia meanwhile, 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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Arriving in...Newfoundland & Labrador

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 second in the series we’re going to look at Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada. A rural location with stunning scenery, friendly locals and a steady demand for Western trained medics. Getting there: Getting to Newfoundland isn’t anywhere near as easy as flying into Sharjah! There are few direct flights from the UK to the capital, St John’s, international airport. Only Air Canada and Lufthansa offer a direct flight from Heathrow, that will have you in the City in under six hours. If getting to Heathrow is an issue, then most people will simply fly out to one of Canada’s bigger airports, and catch a connection to Newfoundland. Accommodation: Accomodation in Newfoundland is one of the biggest attraction for medics seeking more space at a lower cost. Property prices are more than 60% lower than they are in London, with plenty of spacious family homes available at affordable rates. The country is so large and sparsely populated that you’ll often get plenty of land too - making it perfect for those with young families, animals or who are just looking to escape from the city. Keeping in contact: Staying in touch with family back home whilst you’re in Newfoundland is easy - with only a three and a half hour time difference making finding the right time to call home simple. Telus and Bell are the two most popular mobile networks in the region, and both provide the best coverage at an affordable rate. Internet speeds are reasonable, and improving, too and so video calling using Skype or Facetime isn’t an issue. Basic rules: Canada is a free and liberal country, however that doesn’t mean that you should act just as you do at home, we’ve outlined five little rules to follow during your time in the country: It is illegal to smoke in public places. Just as in the UK you won’t be able to light up in restaurants, bars or shops. In Canada this stretches further though, to shared areas of property and cars with children on board. Manners are a huge part of Canadian society, and small acts like holding doors for people and apologising for minor indiscretions will help you to fit in. A smart, conservative business dress is expected in most meetings. The country remains very formal, especially in a business environment. It is considered rude to speak in a language other than French or English in a working environment, as it could exclude others from the conversation. Tipping in the hospitality industry is expected countrywide, with 15% of your final bill being the standard amount. As most workers are on minimum wage tips are often vital in making employment worthwhile. Getting around: Canada is a vast country, and Newfoundland especially is a vast area with large distances between locations. There are really only two ways to get around therefore; driving, or flying. Canada has a well developed road network, and the driving standards in the country are high - making it the easiest and safest way to travel. For longer distances St John’s airport can take you elsewhere in the country, with a small number of flights also going directly to the USA. Things to see: Despite its rural location, there is plenty to see and do in Newfoundland and Labrador, so we’ve compiled a quick list of five things not to miss out on: The Johnson Geo Centre - To understand more about the landscape in which you’re living this stunning Geological centre is a must-see. Go whale watching - There are plenty of organised boat tours that will let you get close to some of nature’s most impressive animals. Gros Morne National Park - A TripAdvisor excellence award is testament to the stunning views and natural beauty on offer. Avalon Mall, St John’s - The largest mall in the province, it is home to over 140 shops, a cinema and plenty of restaurants. Rising Tide Theatre - Newfoundland has a number of theatres, however few are as unique as the Rising Tide. It offers an intimate viewing experience of some fascinating, smaller productions. The working environment: Working in Canada can be a unique experience, so we’ve created a little list of things to expect: Equality. Everyone in Canada is given the right to have their say, from nurse to senior consultant - so be prepared to listen and work as part of a team. Doctors are treated with a great deal of respect, something that is especially attractive to GPs who often feel undervalued in the UK. This also means that Canadians don’t try and take advantage of the system, or lie about symptoms to speed up appointment times. Canadian’s appreciate good communication, timekeeping and admin skills. So you’ll be expected to keep everyone updated on how things are going. Initially you may have to work in a more rural area, however don’t despair, with some experience in the country job opportunities in the bigger towns and cities will quickly become available. 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...Sharjah

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 first installment will look at Sharjah, an Emirate that is fast becoming the home of healthcare in the UAE. Getting there: Sharjah does have its own airport, however there are no direct flights to it from London. You can catch an EgyptAir with a lengthy layover in Cairo, however most people will fly into Dubai International. 23 flights leave the UK for Dubai every day: 15 from London (Emirates, Qantas, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Royal Brunei Airlines) three from Manchester, two from Glasgow and one from Newcastle (all Emirates). Sharjah is approximately half an hour’s drive from Dubai International Airport, with plenty of cheap taxis available. Most employers will sort out flights and transfers for their employees - however it’s always best to ensure this before boarding. Accommodation: Throughout the Emirates accomodation is often provided by employers, usually within secure compounds. Sharjah is no exception, however for those looking for something different, housing allowances can go further than they would in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Rent in Sharjah is typically 55% lower than it is in Dubai, however many buildings are older - making it important that you view before committing to anything. Keeping in contact: Staying in touch with those back home when you’re in Sharjah shouldn’t be an issue. Throughout the Emirates mobile phone signal is strong, with Etisalat being the country’s most popular network. Voice over internet protocol (VOIP) calling is 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. This is especially the case in Sharjah which is more of a traditional Emirati area than Dubai. Eating, drinking or smoking in public during Ramadan is forbidden Sharing living accomodation with an unmarried non-relative is illegal, and something we’d strongly advise that is avoided. Laws are less strict in compounds, however issues can (and do) still arise. Getting around: There are plenty of ways to explore the UAE, and the rest of the Gulf from Sharjah. Taxis are cheap and plentiful, whilst public buses and the Dubai Metro also offer good value travel. Driving in a private car is obviously an option too, however the roads can be dangerous with many drivers showing scant regard for the rules. We’d recommend spending time in Taxis before venturing out yourself, as it can be quite a shock. For those looking for longer distance travel there are plenty of boat trips available in Dubai, whilst the airport is one of the world’s busiest - offering flights to everywhere from Baku to Zanzibar! Things to see: The UAE has plenty to see and do, and so we’ve compiled a list of five things not to miss out on: Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation - One of the Gulf’s greatest museums, this charts the history of Islam giving you a greater understanding of how it shaped the region. Sharjah Classic Car Museum - A must for any car enthusiast, this small museum has a great collection of cars right from the early 20th century through to the early 1980s. Souq Al Jubail, Sharjah, an unusually modern marketplace, where you can pick up plenty of fresh, local produce. Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi. Located XY away from Sharjah covers more than 12 hectares. Its beauty and size make it a must-visit. Burj Khalifa, Dubai. 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! The working environment: Working in Sharjah can be a unique experience, so we’ve came up with a quick list of things to expect: A multinational environment. Despite being smaller than Dubai, Sharjah is home to a diverse population. Expect to work with people from all over the world - even in 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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50% of UAE Stroke Victims under 45

Someone has a stroke in the United Arab Emirates every hour, with half of these individuals being under the age of 45 it’s been revealed. Between 8,000 and 10,000 people have a stroke each year in the Emirates, and this statistic only looks like rising. Experts examining the issue have highlighted a range of lifestyle related factors; with the country’s sedentary lifestyle, high rates of obesity, diabetes and smoking all playing a major role. This is most evident in the average age of stroke patients in Emirates. Worldwide figures show that 80% of stroke victims are over the age of 65 - however in the UAE half of patients are 20 years younger than that benchmark. Dr Suhail Al Rukn, head of Rashid Hospital’s Stroke Unit, highlighted just how concerning the figures are to the Khaleej Times. He said: “For the UAE, this is an alarming statistic and calls for urgent lifestyle changes and the need for an increase in awareness. “18 to 20% of the population are obese, 20% of population are diabetics. Moreover, high salt consumption is a major issue. The average amount of salt needed on a daily basis is two grams, however, the average amount of salt people in the UAE consume per day is 15 grams, which is way above the required limit. “It is essential for people to be aware of risk factors, to conduct yearly health screenings, and those with one or more risk factors can opt for the stroke risk calculator test, which tabulates the likelihood of a person having a stroke in the next ten years.” Despite a drop in the oil price the UAE remains an extremely popular location for expats seeking a better life overseas. Generous tax-free salaries, modern facilities and a luxurious standard of living make the country ideal for those seeking a change from the NHS. For more information, and the latest job alerts, 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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Making the Move | Canada

It’s at this time of year that many people start considering (or in many cases start re-considering) the idea of a move abroad. A new year brings with it new hopes, a fresh start and the opportunity to do something you’ve been hoping to do for a while. So why not make 2018 the year you finally go for that new life overseas? Over the final six weeks of 2017 we’ve looked at a select group of the countries we work with, and examined why you should make the move in 2018. During this we’ve recapped some of the major news stories from 2017, looked at the health issues facing the country, what sort of person would be suited to a move, and what the future could have in store. So read on, and join in the conversation on social media using the #OdyMTM2018. In the final installment in the series we’re going to taking a look at Canada, a country that is considered by many to be the most friendly, and welcoming in the world. What Made the News in 2017? Canadian’s are notoriously humble, and that is reflected in the country’s healthcare news. Unlike locations in the Gulf little is published about surgical success stories or innovative ideas, with a focus instead placed on quietly and effectively getting on with the job in hand. We did bring you some news however, starting in March. After Canada topped our online poll asking where our followers would most like to call home, we looked at the return of Mumps to the country - with 19 cases reported in just three months. Also in March Bridges Health in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, became the first company in Winnipeg to offer mental health first-aid training. Later in Spring Smoking rates in Canada continued to drop, as better education about the health risks related to tobacco, and new laws and taxes, convinced more and more people to shun the habit. The drop between 2015 and 2016 was a modest one, just 0.4% however, meaning that approximately 5.3 million (17.7%) of the country’s 35 million strong population still use tobacco on a semi-regular basis In June plans were unveiled aimed at banning junk food advertising that targeted children in Canada, an idea supported by many within the sector. A month later doctors at Toronto’s Mount Sinai Hospital saved a newborn from a range of potential cardiac issues, by operating on him whilst he was still inside his mother’s womb. The year ended with Canada coming sixth overall in HSBC’s ExpatExplorer report - with expats loving the high quality of life and tolerant, inclusive society. What are the Biggest Health Issues in Canada? Diabetes - An estimated nine million people in Canada suffer from the condition, and rates have almost doubled since 1998. Some cases are genetic, but the vast majority of new diagnosis are type-2, meaning that they can be linked to lifestyle issues. Rates in the country are lower than in the Middle East, however the growth rate doesn’t appear to show any signs of slowing in the future, meaning the country could face an increasing battle with the condition. Heart Disease - There are many contributing factors to cardiovascular illnesses; diet, weight, age, race and family history can all play a part, but the risk for Canadians is rising. Lifestyle choices like smoking have played a major role in this and, although the smoking rate has now dropped, it still plays as big a role as any other factor. The positive news is that the youth smoking rate in the country is dropping, however as this figure gets lower childhood obesity rates have started to soar - with recent statistics showing that they have tripled in the past 30 years. Obesity increases an individual's risk of heart defects by almost 70% and, as a result, the country looks set to battle cardiovascular problems for many years to come. Multiple Sclerosis - Canada has the highest rate of the autoimmune condition in the world, and it is still not known what causes it. It is estimated that over 100,000 Canadians are living with the condition, which is most commonly detected in those between the ages of 18 and 40. Incredibly Canada’s rates of the illness are 28% greater than in the second highest placed location - Denmark. Who is Suited to a Move? We think that Canada has plenty to offer lots of groups in society, however as you’ll likely start off working in a more rural setting we think it’s ideal for someone looking for a long-term, permanent relocation. This can especially suit those looking for a safe, secure place to call home, and who have a young family, or are thinking of starting one soon. What Does the Future Have In Store? Whilst the United States struggles with division and political instability, Canada is quietly continuing to remain a safe, secure and stable location to call home. The country’s economy is in a good condition, and as a result a long-term move is unlikely to face any major hurdles. Register with us to start your journey

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Australia wages war on smokers

A campaign to raise the legal age of purchasing tobacco in Queensland, Australia, to 21 has gained the support of one of the region’s main health chiefs. Chief Executive of Central Queensland Health, Steve Williamson, has backed the plans whilst attending an event to publicise the board’s ‘10,000 Lives’ initiative - aimed at getting as many smokers as possible to quite in the New Year, by offering them a 12 week programme of help, advice and support. Williamson said: “Smoking is one of the main factors in many chronic health conditions, and as the major hospital and healthcare provider in Central Queensland we've decided we can no longer sit back and do nothing; we're trying to get the community behind a push to butt out. “Last month we launched our 10,000 Lives project, and that’s already having a major impact with almost 300 smokers registered and receiving free support to quit. Lifting the legal smoking age from 18 to 21 would make it more difficult for young people to pick up the habit, and would help reduce the consistently rising rate of tobacco-related illnesses and deaths. "We're really trying to get the community behind those who want to quit smoking, to stop lifetime habits forming.” CQ Health Projects Officer, Caron Williams, echoed Williamson’s comments, and hopes that new initiatives will help to convince people to kick the habit. She said: “With the New Year fast approaching it's a really great time to start afresh, and for all those smokers who have been thinking about quitting, we can provide free tools to get you over the line. "It's very rewarding to support these people as they tackle their addiction to make a big difference to their lives for a healthier future." Australia is a location which has been hugely popular with Western trained medics for many years now. Offering a laid back lifestyle, good work/life balance and high quality facilities it is perfect for all sorts of people. For more information, and the latest job alerts, 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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Abu Dhabi Health Survey 2017

Rates of lifestyle related health conditions in the Gulf are showing little sign of dropping, after a recently published report in Abu Dhabi showed that they were responsible for 37% of deaths in the Emirate last year. The Department of Health’s ‘Health Statistics 2016’ report demonstrated a rise of 2% in deaths from cardiovascular disease since 2015, whilst other lifestyle related issues like diabetes and some Cancers put ‘an aggressive demand on outpatient services.’ One of the report’s key findings that plays a role in explaining just why cardiovascular disease is such a big issue, was explained in the results from the ‘Weqaya’ screening program. It showed that some 71% of citizens had at least one cardiovascular disease risk factor. A factor that they were unaware of and thus did little to change. This lack of knowledge is one area that Dr Omniyat Al Hajeri, Director of Public Health in the Emirate, is keen to change. She told Gulf News: “As announced at the first Abu Dhabi Childhood Obesity Forum earlier this month, we will soon launch, or intensify, up to 50 initiatives that aim to reduce the average body mass index of children by 15% by 2022. “In addition to encouraging active lifestyles and better food choices, we also hope to make healthier food options more accessible and affordable.” Despite the increasing figures, and the UAE being hit by a drop in the global oil price, the number of medical facilities on offer in Abu Dhabi has actually risen. Between 2015 and 2016 nine new hospitals opened - whilst over 300 more doctors found employment in the Emirate. Abu Dhabi, along with the rest of the Gulf region, faces a huge, lengthy battle with lifestyle related disease. Despite this, and various other challenges however, it remains a leader in global healthcare. For more information - and the latest job alerts - 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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Make the Move | China

It’s at this time of year that many people start considering (or in many cases start re-considering) the idea of a move abroad. A new year brings with it new hopes, a fresh start and the opportunity to do something you’ve been hoping to do for a while. So why not make 2018 the year you finally go for that new life overseas? Over the final six weeks of 2017 we’re looking at a select group of the countries we work with, and examining why you should make the move in 2018. During this we’ll recap some of the major news stories from 2017, look at the health issues facing the country, what sort of person would be suited to a move, and what the future could have in store. So read on, and join in the conversation on social media using the #OdyMTM2018. In the penultimate installment we’re going to take a look at China, a country that has only recently started to open its doors to expat medics - offering them a truly unique and exciting opportunity. What Made the News in 2017? Unlike the other locations we’ve looked at in this series, China is a country that we’ve only recently started working with. As a result our news roundup is less comprehensive, however that shouldn’t detract from an important year of development. We started our partnership with China by looking at five reasons to move to the country. High quality infrastructure and a unique cultural experience both played a role, however we reckoned most people would be taken in by the prospect of influencing the future of healthcare. A young and keen workforce need leaders - and we know that many of our candidates would be perfect for that role. A month later we looked at a major issue facing China - high smoking rates and a lack of education about the damage the habit can do. According to a survey published in Spring an estimated 59% of the country’s 316 million smokers had no intention of quitting. In late summer we looked at the advantages and disadvantages of moving to various locations, in our ‘which location is for me’ special. We concluded that China is perfect for experienced medics looking to pass on their skills, or for those looking to seriously enhance their CV. A fortnight later came some positive news, as a survey of wealthy Chinese families revealed that they valued their health over wealth. In October we reported on the Far East’s high breast cancer rates, with figures in China rising by 3.5% annually between 2000 and 2013. Rapid development and traditional attitudes were cited as major reasons for this. Later in the month we brought you our ‘Far East for 18’ feature, looking at reasons to take your skills to some of the world’s fastest growing economies. A move to China may seem unusual now, however we don’t think that will be the case in another five years time. Finally we reported on HSBC’s ExpatExplorer survey, where expats praised China’s influence on their career, wages and commented on how safe they felt - however they also reported that they found it difficult to fit into Chinese society. What are the Biggest Health Issues in China? Pollution Related Respiratory Conditions - China is known around the world for the vast levels of pollution it emits each year and so, unsurprisingly, that has started to have a serious impact on the nation’s health. Estimates suggest that between 350,000 and 500,000 people die each year as a direct result of the so called ‘Airpocalypse’, with rates of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), acute lower respiratory infections and lung cancer being amongst the world’s highest. An Ageing Population - Following a ‘baby boom’ by advocating having a smaller family (with the one child policy for example) now means that China is facing a range of issues related to an ageing population. By the year 2035 more than 25% of the country’s population will be over the age of 60, with that putting them at an increased risk of conditions such as dementia, vertigo, strokes and chronic pain. Tobacco - Incredibly recent statistics have shown that 60% of Chinese doctors are smokers, whilst this rate can rise even further in more rural areas, and amongst people in less well paid professions. Smoking is deeply ingrained into Chinese culture despite smoking bans and increased taxes. It is still considered polite to offer colleagues and friends cigarettes at social functions, whilst the majority of smokers do not consider their habit to be a problem. This is reflected in Cancer rates, with 28% of deaths in the country coming as a result of the condition. Smoking combined with poor air quality can be a deadly mix, and it’s unsurprising to see the prevelance of Lung Cancer continuing to rise. Who is Suited to a Move? This is something that we’re asked frequently, we believe that it is most suited to an experienced medic looking to focus more on educating the next generation within a modern, competitive environment, or to a slightly younger, but still experienced, career-driven individual looking to give their CV a serious boost. That’s not to say that China isn’t suitable for others, however it is best suited to these two groups at this moment in time in our view. What Does the Future Have In Store? Plenty. Economic growth across the Far East is projected to rise at a remarkable rate in the near future, whilst new facilities are regularly being completed throughout the country’s major cities. Unlike the Gulf, the region is not impacted by the oil price drop, whilst manufacturing, tourism and financial services are all industries which are continuing to grow and thrive. This means that both homegrown and foreign investment in the healthcare sector has rarely been higher. Get ahead of the rest and secure your move to the country today! Register with us to start your journey

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Saudi Arabia VAT to be Introduced

Selected medication, medical equipment and technology will be exempt from Value Added Tax in Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom’s government has confirmed. Set to be introduced on January 1st 2018, Saudi’s new VAT laws are expected to raise between $7bn and $21bn to boost the Kingdom’s economy annually, as it attempts to cope with the drop in the price and demand for oil. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are to become the first Gulf states to introduce the new taxation which, at just 5%, is the lowest rate in the world. Fellow GCC members; Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman have also agreed to the introduction of the tax, however won’t bring it in until a later date. Healthcare tech’ and medication aren’t the only exempt items - with air travel, oil, residential property and educational materials all also free from the additional costs. What should VAT mean for healthcare in the Gulf overall? Well it should lead to a healthier population (thanks to heavier taxes on unhealthy foods), and greater funding for public hospitals region-wide. That’s certainly a major aim of the plans anyway. The cost of living is likely to increase slightly, however the changes are unlikely to be deal-breaking for anyone looking for a move. For more information on how to secure a move to either Saudi Arabia or the UAE - and for the latest job alerts - register on our website today. Start your journey today by registering on our website.

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Making the Move: Australia

It’s at this time of year that many people start considering (or in many cases start re-considering) the idea of a move abroad. A new year brings with it new hopes, a fresh start and the opportunity to do something you’ve been hoping to do for a while. So why not make 2018 the year you finally go for that new life overseas? Over the final six weeks of 2017 we’re looking at a select group of the countries we work with, and examining why you should make the move in 2018. During this we’ll recap some of the major news stories from 2017, look at the health issues facing the country, what sort of person would be suited to a move, and what the future could have in store. So read on, and join in the conversation on social media using the #OdyMTM2018. As we edge another week closer to the New Year we’re going to take a look at Australia, a country that has been a real favourite amongst those looking to leave the United Kingdom for many years now. What Made the News in 2017? It’s been a busy year for the healthcare sector in Australia, with plenty of news stories focused on better understanding the health needs of the nation emerging. Back in January the latest in telemedical technology was demonstrated, with the ‘Coviu’ program expected to bring healthcare to some 20,000 people in the country. This made it easy to connect with medical professionals using Google Chrome or Firefox browsers - without the need for additional software. After a quiet few months things picked up as we reached April, with mental health action groups calling on the government to set suicide reduction targets. The calls came shortly after proposals had been outlined for the creation of the country’s first national suicide prevention plan. Mental health continued to lead the headlines, after a new report showed that almost 30% of girls in the country suffer from a serious mental illness. Psychiatric services and Cancer research support were the biggest beneficiaries of Australia’s 2017 budget, released in early May, with both areas benefitting from millions of dollars in additional funding. The headline investment was the $68 million invested into a new proton beam therapy centre, scheduled to be open by 2020. Later in the month a study revealed that Australians are consuming almost 60% more salt than previously thought, putting the country on the verge of a cardiovascular crisis. Despite cardiovascular conditions being on the rise, an Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report released in June highlighted Cancer as the biggest threat to the health of the nation. This was further shown when an interactive map was published, looking at the most common types of Cancer in each area of the country. Torrens University’s Public Health Information Development Unit curated the statistics, which illustrated the impact a number of socio-economic factors can have on Cancer prevalence throughout the country. In July American research group the Commonwealth Fund ranked healthcare systems in the Western world, with Australia coming second only to the NHS. A month later a number of groups including the Royal Australian College of GPs, the Royal Australian College of Physicians and the Cancer Council of Australia endorsed a statement calling for a national action plan to be introduced in the country, to prevent overdiagnosis and overtreatment. As we reached September a new report using data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare identified the burden placed on healthcare in the country by preventable health issues - with a staggering 2,398,037 days taken up by people suffering from preventable conditions in hospital beds between 2015 and 2016. At the beginning of October a fascinating new report was published, showing that dementia was now the leading cause of death amongst women in the country - rising above heart disease for the very first time. Later the same month we brought you an exclusive article looking at the most sought after medical specialties in the country - with psychiatrists and GPs being the most in-demand. The year ended with new findings showing that one in five Australian children are overweight by the time they start school, leading to calls for a sugar tax to prevent an imminent obesity epidemic. This was followed by the findings of ‘Mission Australia’s’ annual youth survey, which showed young people are now more concerned about mental health than ever before. What are the Biggest Health Issues in Australia? Mental Illness - Around 1 in 5 ‘Aussies’ experience the symptoms of a mental health disorder every year. Anxiety is the most common mental illness in the country, affecting 14.4% of those battling issues, whilst depression was one of the country’s leading causes of suicide. In order to try and help those battling these issues in the country, and in order to reduce the steadily increasing suicide rate, Australia has invested generously in its mental health services. More information than ever is available for citizens, whilst a range of centres have been opened to allow individuals to speak with specialists about the issues that they are facing. Inequalities Between Aboriginal and Non-Indigenous Health - Australia is home to a unique group of indigenous people - the Aboriginal and Strait Islanders. These people lead a unique way of life that mixes modern technology with ancient traditions. Their lifestyle however is increasingly being seen as unhealthy, with dangerous jobs and smoking highly common, whilst more mainstream, modern, healthcare is shunned by many of the population’s older individuals who refuse to trust it. Perhaps unsurprisingly therefore this has lead to the life expectancy for the Aboriginal people dropping to over 10 years lower than the country’s average. Lung Cancer - As with everywhere else in the world at this moment in time, Cancer is one of the biggest issues facing the health of the nation. In Australia lung Cancer is the form of the issue which causes the most deaths. 85% of lung Cancer cases are caused by the use of (or excessive exposure to) tobacco. Its symptoms can leave people short of breath, coughing aggressively and even leads to the coughing up of blood if it is not caught at an early stage. Whilst consuming tobacco is the most common contributing factor to lung Cancer, those exposed to chemicals such as radon, asbestos and nickel will also find themselves at an increased risk of the condition. Around 5% of all deaths in Australia each year are as a result of lung Cancer Who is Suited to a Move? Australia is a laid back, liberal location with year round sun and a friendly, welcoming population. A move therefore should have something that suits everyone. The financial rewards aren’t as rich as they are in the Gulf however, so if finances are your main reason for looking abroad we’d recommend looking elsewhere. What the country can offer however is an outstanding environment for a long-term move. Job security is high, whilst the country can be perfect for raising a family. As a result we think it’s best suited to people looking for a more permanent relocation, where they will have plenty of stability and security as well as a better standard of living. What Does the Future Have In Store? Australia looks like having a stable, secure and potentially exciting future. Investment in healthcare is high - especially in psychiatry, and a strong economy means that it’s unlikely these plans will change. Australia is also an extremely safe location, further enhancing its image as an ideal location for those looking for a long-term move with a young family. Start your journey today by registering on our website.

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Making the Move: Saudi Arabia

It’s at this time of year that many people start considering (or in many cases start re-considering) the idea of a move abroad. A new year brings with it new hopes, a fresh start and the opportunity to do something you’ve been hoping to do for a while. So why not make 2018 the year you finally go for that new life overseas? Over the final six weeks of 2017 we’re looking at a select group of the countries we work with, and examining why you should make the move in 2018. During this we’ll recap some of the major news stories from 2017, look at the health issues facing the country, what sort of person would be suited to a move, and what the future could have in store. So read on, and join in the conversation on social media using the #OdyMTM2018. As we reach the halfway point in our exclusive series we’re going to take a look at the unique Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A fascinating location that continues to attract plenty of expat medics, despite a very different way of life. What Made the News in 2017? Saudi Arabia is a notoriously secretive country, however it is more than happy to publicise the successes enjoyed by its well-funded and highly rated healthcare sector. As a result we’ve been able to bring you plenty of news from the ‘Desert Kingdom’. This started back in January with proposals introduced for a 100% Value Added Tax on tobacco products. Saudi has some of the world’s highest smoking rates, with statistics showing that a staggering 14% of those aged 18 and under have taken up the habit. This increased trend in smoking rates amongst young people was especially unusual, with most countries seeing a significant drop in the number U18s using tobacco. A day later the country’s 2017 budget was introduced. An 8% rise was granted, with healthcare being a particular beneficiary thanks to a further £26bn investment. We then took an in-depth look at Jubail City in the Kingdom’s Eastern Province, after noticing an increasing number of medics wanting to move to the area. Meanwhile Dubai based investment group Amanat Holdings announced that they had purchased a 13.18% stake in Saudi Arabia’s IMC Hospital. A busy January concluded with Bait Al-Batterjee Medical unveiling plans for a new medical city in Jeddah. In February NMC Health revealed that they would be expanding further into the Kingdom, whilst a steep rise in the number of Dengue Fever cases were reported in Jeddah. After a quiet March, Riyadh played host to the ‘EHealth and Beyond’ conference in early April, before the Saudi Government gave the green light to a plan for a new medical city in the same location. Later in the month high rates of Renal Failure in the Kingdom were highlighted, with more than 16,000 Saudis said to be suffering from the condition. Meanwhile data published at the ‘EHealth’ conference showed that healthcare in Saudi Arabia was on a ‘fast growth trajectory’ towards a worth of SR926bn (£197bn) by 2020. May opened with major news, as the Kingdom revealed that it was no longer accepting dentists from overseas. The decision came as a result of Government lead plans for ‘Saudisation’ of the sector. Later in the month NMC Health became the leading interested party in Saudia Health, the medical services arm of the Kingdom’s Saudia Airlines. As we reached summer 14 new cases of Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) were reported in the Kingdom, with 12 of the new cases being in Riyadh. Two people would die as a result. In August Saudi Arabia’s health ministry promised citizens in the Kingdom that they would continue to have free access to healthcare services in the country, despite press reports to the contrary. Later in the month the Ministry of Health signed a deal with Riyadh based medical technology installation group Al-Kaws, aimed at increasing public awareness around the issues caused by smoking. The year ended with further cases of MERS being reported to the World Health Organisation, and a massive step-forward for women’s rights - as they were granted the right to drive for the very first time. What are the Biggest Health Issues in the UAE? Chronic Lifestyle Related Conditions - As with much of the Gulf, Heart Disease is the biggest killer in the country, but rates are high even by regional standards. It is estimated that around 30% of the Saudi population are obese, and this figure has risen noticeably since 1990. Meanwhile 23% of men are classified as physically inactive, whilst this figure is nearer 50% for women within the country. These factors mean that conditions like type-2 diabetes are growing in prevalence in the Kingdom, with an estimated 3.4 million people suffering from it in 2015. A massive percentage of the country’s 28 million strong population. Breast Cancer - Despite Breast Cancer screening being free in Saudi Arabia very few women actually take up the offer. Saudi society still sees women dress very conservatively, with the Abaya (veil) being mandatory almost Kingdom-wide. As a result few are willing to allow medical scans to take place on an intimate area of the body. A 2013 report showed that just 8% of women in Saudi had taken a mammogram at some point in their lifetime, with the majority of these cases coming after they were recommended by a doctor. Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) - Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (or MERS as it is usually known) leads to the death of around 36% of all those who contract it. A viral respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus, it was first identified as a major issue in Saudi Arabia almost six years ago. It is believed to be transported by camels, however the exact science behind it remains unknown, meaning that it is still untreatable. Typically the symptoms can range from a simple fever like cough, to shortness of breath and diarrhoea, however in patients with long term health conditions such as Cancer and Diabetes the impact can be far more serious. Who is Suited to a Move? Saudi Arabia is a unique location, and that means that it certainly isn’t suitable for everyone. Those who enjoy the freedoms of living in the West should avoid a move, whilst it isn’t ideal for those with teenage children due to the lack of things to see and do. We find that it attracts a couple of groups. Firstly those looking to enhance their earnings, with the Kingdom’s high, tax-free, salaries being amongst the best on offer in the world. Secondly we find plenty of interested individuals who originate from nearby. The NHS attracts medics from all over the world, and plenty from locations like Pakistan and India. When these people elect to take their skills elsewhere the are often attracted to Saudi Arabia by the salaries, and find the adjustment to a different way of life easier to make. If you don’t fit into either group that doesn’t mean that the country isn’t for you. It just means that we would recommend that you research it extensively before signing a job offer. What Does the Future Have In Store? It’s impossible to say at the moment. Saudi Arabia has enjoyed years of stable growth, however with the oil-price slumping this may not last for much longer. The country is perfectly safe, however a move is unlikely to be a permanent relocation. If you’re looking for a short-term switch to experience another culture and make some extra money then it’s ideal, if you’re looking to set up roots in a country however we’d recommend looking elsewhere, as things can change very quickly. Start your journey today by registering on our website.

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Dubai facing diabetes epidemic

A recently published Dubai Health Authority survey has revealed that almost one in every two adults with diabetes in the Emirate are unaware that they have the condition. Dubai’s Diabetes Survey 2017 involved 5000 residents over the age of 18 from across the Emirate, with the final results illustrating a lack of change in the condition’s prevalence since 2012. That means that 15.2% of the population are still known to have the condition, with a further 11.3% still yet to be diagnosed. Both of these figures are considerably higher than in the United Kingdom, where estimates suggest that just 6% of the population are diabetic. Perhaps the most concerning of the survey’s findings however were the number of people deemed to be at a high risk of developing diabetes - which sat at 16% of participants, leaving the total incidence rate at a projected 19.3%. This figure highlights the real need for drastic change in the Emirate, if it is to reach its 2021 goal of reducing the overall rate to 16.4%. Speaking at the publication of the figures, Dr Fatheya Al Awadi, head of endocrinology at Dubai Hospital, and chair of the DHA’s Diabetes Committee said: “Whilst it is imperative to provide a proper medical programme and lifestyle change to those already diagnosed with diabetes, it is even more important to stem the onset of diabetes in those who are borderline and high risk. “Those with a glycated haemoglobin levels of between 5.7 to 6.4 are pre-diabetic, and it is these people we must work on with a very structured programme that will involve educating and empowering them about diet, nutrition, physical exercise, and the importance of cutting out direct sugars, whilst we should also appoint a wellness coach for them to regularly monitor their progress.” Dr Al Awadi was also positive about the potential impact that the DHA’s new Salama electronic record system could have in the battle against the condition. She continued: “Very soon we will be able to create a disease registry based on these authentic figures which can be validated in real time. The registry will give us exact statistics of how many diabetics we have, and how many people are high risk and pre-diabetic. This will help us combat this challenge better.” Dubai remains one of the most popular locations that we work with, with high salaries, a luxurious lifestyle and year round sunshine appealing to plenty of potential expats. For more information, and the latest job alerts, register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine. Start your journey today by registering on our website.

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Obesity Australia's No.1 Childhood problem

One in five Australian children are overweight by the time they start school according to a report released recently by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. The headline figure has lead to calls from politicians and action groups for a ‘sugar tax’ on unhealthy food and drink, whilst others have blamed the lack of a national strategy to combat obesity for the statistics. High obesity rates amongst children were far from the only concerning findings in the report however, with young adults in the country now twice as likely as their parents to be obese, and 71% of men now classed as being overweight. Speaking to Australia’s AP news agency, Jane Martin, of the Obesity Policy Coalition, was scaything in her assesment of the report, which was released just months after Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, rejected plans for a ‘sugar tax’. Martin said: “When you have 71% of men overweight or obese, when you have severe obesity doubling in the last 20 years, that’s a serious problem, and it’s going to take some time to slow down, let alone turn around. “This issue really needs to be addressed through the food environment because it’s driven mostly by a poor diet. What’s driving poor diets is the promotion of highly processed food, the price of these foods are very cheap and they are always available “We don’t have a national obesity strategy, and we should be looking at a health levy on sugary drinks in particular.” Obesity is the second biggest cause of disease in the country (behind smoking) and it seems like only a matter of time before it becomes the number one issue. Despite facing a troublesome battle with obesity, Australia remains well placed to deal with the issues that arise as a result. The healthcare system in the country is well organised and structured, and plenty of vacancies arise every month for medics looking to move ‘down under’. For more information, and job alerts, register on our website today. A dream move could be far closer than you might imagine. Start your journey today by registering on our website.

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Making the Move: United Arab Emirates

It’s at this time of year that many people start considering (or in many cases start re-considering) the idea of a move abroad. A new year brings with it new hopes, a fresh start and the opportunity to do something you’ve been hoping to do for a while. So why not make 2018 the year you finally go for that new life overseas? Over the final six weeks of 2017 we’re looking at a select group of the countries we work with, and examine why you should make the move in 2018. During this we’ll recap some of the major news stories from 2017, look at the health issues facing the country, what sort of person would be suited to a move, and what the future could have in store. So read on, and join in the conversation on social media using the #OdyMTM2018. In the third article in our exclusive series we’re going to take a look at the United Arab Emirates. A country that has been a favourite amongst expats for almost two decades now. What Made the News in 2017? It’s been another busy year across the Emirates, with pioneering technology, remarkable procedures and big changes to taxation dominating the headlines. 2017 began with medics at Sharjah’s Al Qasimi Hospital carrying out skull reconstruction surgery using 3D technology for the fourth time. The procedure, which cost in excess of £6500, saw 3D printed bones, proven to be stronger than natural ones, inserted into the patient’s skull as a replacement for those that had been shattered. Less than a week later 2000 of the world’s leading healthcare experts came together in Dubai, for the Emirates’ annual healthcare forum. This was followed by the opening of the UAE’s first robotic pharmacy, where the ‘bots are able to serve 12 patients a minute - and have a knowledge of more than 35,000 medicines, making them truly adaptable. In February, plans for Sharjah’s first free economic zone were given the green light, as the Emirates’ quest to become a healthcare hub stepped up a gear. At the same time it was revealed that work on Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City were 90% complete - offering 732 beds, including 36 VIP suites. Also in February, medics at Rashid Hospital in Dubai saved a 62 year old man’s life after removing a tumour weighing an incredible 4kg from his kidney. Meanwhile the deadline for being covered by mandatory health insurance was extended until the end of March. As Spring arrived, things began to gradually slow down after a busy opening to the year. Dubai based business conglomerate The Thumbay Group added to its growing healthcare portfolio, by opening new, state of the art, family clinics with connected pharmacies in Dubai and Fujairah. In April Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority called for more psychiatrists in the country, to deal with the increased number of young people suffering from mental health problems. As May began we reported on the beginning of work in Dubai’s new Radiosurgery Hospital, the first of its kind to be located in the new Science Park Free Zone. The month ended with experts speaking about the troubles that can arise in managing diabetes during Ramadan. The midpoint of the year saw the country pledge more than $30m in order to totally eliminate polio worldwide, whilst medics removed an enormous 17.5kg tumour from a female patient’s abdomen at Latifa Hospital in Dubai - thought to be the biggest ever removed in the hospital’s 31 year history. In mid-July Telemedical advancements in the UAE took another step forward, with the introduction of ‘smart’ health booths in Dubai’s Road Transport Authority’s headquarters. These are capable of carrying out blood pressure, blood sugar level, temperature, lipid profile, BMI, heart rate, blood oxygen and ECG tests, without the need for an appointment. As the month ended, we reported on the story of Eman Abdul Atti - believed to be the world’s fattest woman - who had her weight cut to below 100kg thanks to the hard work of medics at Burjeel Hospital. In September we brought you news concerning the introduction of new VAT laws throughout the Gulf, that look certain to have a major impact on personal finances across the region. Later in the month Eman Abdul Atti passed away, just days after her 37th birthday - with the damage already done to her heart and kidneys given as the biggest reason for this. The year would end with the UAE topping a report that ranked countries by the number of Joint Commission International accredited hospitals they had. A glowing testimony to the high standard of care on offer in the country. What are the Biggest Health Issues in the UAE? Obesity - The UAE’s battle with the bulge is showing no signs of being won, as the country continues to expand both in numbers and size. Recent estimates have shown that almost 70% of the Emirates’ population are at an unhealthy weight, with this being blamed on rapid development and a lack of education about how to lead a healthy lifestyle. Slowly attitudes are changing as people begin to learn about the major issues that result from being obese - however this will take time. For now obesity can be linked to most of the major health problems in the United Arab Emirates - as well as more generally throughout the Gulf. Heart Disease - The world’s biggest killer, heart disease, is as big an issue in the UAE as you would expect - with almost 30% of deaths in the country coming as a result of it. Coronary heart disease rates are the 24th highest on the planet, and with youth obesity rates in the country rising this ranking looks destined to rise further in the near future. With the average heart disease patient being diagnosed a full 20 years earlier than the US average (at 45, rather than 65 years of age) a long battle with cardiac problems looks to lie ahead. Lymphomas - Cancer of the Lymphatic system appears to be on the rise in the UAE, with the country now being home to the world’s ninth highest rates of the condition. Unfortunately the reasons for this remain unknown, with various experts pointing to a range of factors from exposure to radiation, to family genetics. Who is Suited to a Move? Whilst the UAE does have plenty to offer families, couples and lone travellers, they are all mainly attracted by one thing - the financial rewards a move can bring. If you are looking for a relatively short term career move to boost your finances, and experience another way of life, then the Emirates can be perfect. Very few people stay in the country for the long-term however. It is unusual for people to stay for more than a decade, and many leave after only a few years. The oppressive heat during summer, an artificial feeling environment, and potential lack of stability in the future make it less than ideal for those looking to put down roots abroad. What Does the Future Have In Store? “You are the real wealth, not the three million barrels of oil. You are the future of this nation’s security and safety net. We are in a good condition now, but we want to establish the vision for 50 years ahead.” Those were the words of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, when he spoke to young people at a conference earlier this year. His words are pertinent. As the oil price continues to plummet, and as the world turns its back on fossil fuels, the UAE must drive its economy beyond the commodity that shaped the country it is today. Fortunately it appears to be doing this, with healthcare being a sector that looks as if it will benefit from increased backing. Time will be the best judge of how successful the transition from an oil-based economy to a more standardised one has been in the long run however. Start your journey today by registering on our website.

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Make the Move 2018 - Singapore

It’s at this time of year that many people start considering (or in many cases start re-considering) the idea of a move abroad. A new year brings with it new hopes, a fresh start and the opportunity to do something you’ve been hoping to do for a while. So why not make 2018 the year you finally go for that new life overseas? Over the next six weeks we’ll look at a select group of the countries we work with, and examine why you should make the move in 2018. During this we’ll recap some of the major news stories from 2017, look at the health issues facing the country, what sort of person would be suited to a move, and what the future could have in store. So read on, and join in the conversation on social media using the #OdyMTM2018. In the second article in this series we’re going to take a look at Singapore. A unique country, with one of the world’s best regarded healthcare systems. What Made the News in 2017? It’s been a very busy year for healthcare in Singapore, as the country continues to strive for perfection across all areas. The year began with a SingHealth survey revealing that almost half the population of the country could be at risk of developing Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease - a figure far higher than the regional average of 30%. That wasn’t the month’s major news however, with plans introduced aimed at giving public healthcare its most radical shakeup in years. Under the proposals, healthcare groups will be merged into regional clusters - a process that should be complete in just a few months from now. A statement released at the time said: “With the reorganisation each cluster will bring together the capabilities of their polyclinics and partnering GPs, as well as community service providers to drive primary care transformation, and anchor care in the community as a collective force. “This reorganisation of the public healthcare clusters will enable us to meet our future healthcare challenges. We are confident that we will be able to better optimise resources and capabilities, to provide more comprehensive and patient-centred care to meet Singaporeans’ evolving needs”. January ended with surprising research showing that overweight diabetics were at a lower risk than those of a healthy weight of fatty liver disease. The country’s budget was released in mid-February, with mental health support the biggest beneficiary, whilst in March work started on the all new HealthCity Novena rehabilitation centre - which will bring 500 more beds to the island. As we reached Spring, SingHealth revealed that a quarter of people who had a medical issue flagged up at a screening session, didn’t return for professional help. A week later the latest telemedical advancements were hailed as a ‘gamechanger’ by the country’s Chief medical informatics officer. April ended with some further exciting news for the future, as the country’s Health Minister, Gan Kim Yong, promised that the flagship new Woodlands Health Campus will be ‘future-ready’ when it opens in 2022. May began with the country once again showing itself to be at the pinnacle of modern technology, as plans were outlined to introduce health-pods and robotic nurses into public housing. Later in the month a drive was introduced to get the relatives of Colorectal Cancer patients scanned for the condition, in an attempt to detect it at any early stage. The month concluded with a WHO report showing that Singapore was home to some of the healthiest people on the planet, with the life expectancy sitting at 83.1 years. There was a gradual slowdown in major news over summer, with just four big stories making it onto our website between June and September. The country was named as the Far East’s most popular for health tourism, albeit with neighbouring locations such as Malaysia and Vietnam closing in thanks to increasing standards and far lower costs. In July the National University of Singapore launched a new $18m 3D printing centre, aimed at developing tissue regeneration, implants and drug formulations in the near future. A month later academics at the University’s Medical School highlighted the need for more generalist physicians. September was headlined by the publishing of a lifestyle survey, that highlighted the fact that some 81% of Singaporeans weren’t getting as much exercise as recommended. The year ended with a group unveiling a new community-based personalised fitness programme, aimed at helping Stroke survivors rebuild their mobility whilst they recover, before, once again, HSBC named the country as the best for expats in their annual ‘ExpatExplorer’ report. What are the Biggest Health Issues in the Country? Respiratory Conditions - Singapore itself is not actually an overly polluted country, despite its intensely developed nature. The main issues arise from neighbouring Malaysia and Indonesia, both of whom still perform ‘slash and burn’ agricultural techniques. This outdated method releases plenty of toxins into the local atmosphere, causing smog, removing the purity of the air and forcing residents to breathe in chemicals which can put them at a much higher risk of conditions such as asthma. Whilst many of the respiratory conditions experienced by those in Singapore are fairly minor, the country does have a relatively high rate of lung cancer. This can be linked to the slash and burn season, but is more often as a result of smoking tobacco. Unlike in most other countries smoking rates in Singapore have actually risen over the last decade - especially amongst young adults Thalassaemia - Thalassaemia is the most common genetically transferred health issue in Singapore, affecting around one in every 20 people. Having minor thalassaemia will not cause any symptoms and does not require any treatment, however if a male and female are both carriers of the same type of the condition, they have a risk of having a baby with a severe form of it. More severe forms of the illness can lead to heart and liver problems, as well as hormone issues as a result of excess amounts of iron in the body caused by transfusions. Despite this current treatments of the illness can see those carrying even the most severe form of the condition living into their 60s and beyond Colorectal Cancer - Whilst lung Cancer looks as if it will be a big killer in the future in Singapore, the current most common type of Cancer is colorectal. Around 1500 people are diagnosed with Cancer of the Colon each year, and only around 10% of these cases are due to genetic defects. Colorectal Cancer survival rates are around 84% worldwide, and this figure can increase beyond 90% if it is detected at an early stage. Rates in Singapore have remained fairly consistent for a reasonable period of time now, and the country is playing a leading role in Cancer prevention - whilst continuing the quest to find a cure for the illness. Who is Suited to a Move? Singapore is a unique country, and as a result it really suits a certain group of individuals. The lifestyle can be hectic and busy, whilst the working environment for medics can be fast-paced and highly competitive. As a result we think it’s ideal for experienced, driven and highly-motivated younger medics, who are looking to really push themselves to the forefront of medical technology. Of course the country does have plenty of other benefits, the safety, size and range of things to do can appeal to those with a family, whilst the prospect of a unique cultural experience often appeals to those reaching the twilight of their career. Despite all that however the stimulating workplace is best suited to someone who is career-focused, and who wants to really push themselves - whilst living a comfortable life in one of the world’s truly great, modern cities. What Does the Future Have In Store? The Far East looks set to become a major player in the future of healthcare, especially as development in the Gulf begins to slow. Health tourism across the region is already booming, and Singapore is right at the heart of that. Whilst Malaysia and Vietnam are expected to overtake Singapore in terms of the numbers of health tourists they receive shortly, the island-city state will continue to offer the highest quality of care in the region - if not the world. Plans are futureproof, investment remains high, and the country’s stable political climate means that it looks set to lead the way in medical advancements for many more years to come. Start your journey today by registering on our website.

Experts in Professional Recruitment

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