Doctors call for elimination of simplified vesting procedures

Dangerous consequences of simplified recruitment

Simplified modes of access to the medical profession have been introduced despite the objections of the medical association. The main objections concern:

• Lack of verification of medical qualifications - the diplomas and curricula of those obtaining the right to practice in a simplified manner are not subject to strict control according to EU standards. In some cases, the diploma is not even required to be legalized.
• Lack of substantive supervision - doctors working in Poland after completing national medical studies undergo mandatory postgraduate training under close supervision. Meanwhile, those obtaining their licenses through a simplified procedure can work without real control.
• Lowering ethical standards - doctors in Poland are subject to the Code of Medical Ethics and a medical court. Those admitted to the profession under simplified rules may remain outside the self-governing system, which means no accountability to medical authorities.

Will the regulatory change improve the situation for patients?

The NRL stresses that the introduction of simplified procedures was intended to fill the staffing shortage in the health care system. However, after four years, the expected improvement in the situation of patients has not been noted. According to the doctors, lowering training and supervision standards is not the right way to solve the shortage of specialists.

As a result, the medical self-government is appealing to the Minister of Health to repeal regulations allowing the acquisition of professional licenses through simplified procedures. The appeal is accompanied by a proposal for legislative changes that would restore full control over the process of obtaining the right to practice as a doctor and dentist in Poland.

Source: NIL