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Analytical note 308 - The international mobility of health professionals: what i

Policy Brief 308 - The international mobility of health professionals: what is at stake for the French health care system?

04/12/12

The Centre for Strategic Analysis has published a note formulating proposals on

The international mobility of health professionals: what is at stake for the French health care system?

France, unlike other countries, has not opted for an active recruitment of health professionals abroad. Thus, only 7.4% of doctors have a foreign degree , whereas they are 30% in the UK. Yet this number tends to increase , especially in the unattractive localtions or  in certain disciplines. In addition, 27% ​​of new entrants to the French medical board in 2011 had not graduated in France.

The international mobility of health professionals increases , particularly in the context of the European Union . The majority of applications for recognition of qualifications to practice in another member state are made by health professionals . To ensure the quality of care , it is imperative to ensure proper integration of internationally educated professionals in our healthcare system.

It is also necessary that France works with its partners and particularly its European partners, so that the mobility of students and health professionals benefits to everyone in terms of access to healthcare, research and dissemination of good practice without destabilizing their health systems.

In this context, the CAS makes six proposals :

1. Set a delay to the medical board to publish a reference document of required skills for every medical specialty to clarify the criteria of selection in the procedure for authorization to practice

2. Require taking a complementory training in French language as mandatory for all health professionals, who graduated in the European Union and recognized as able to work in France, during their first year, except for those who already speak French fluently.

3. Concerning the European healthcare professionals ,clarify the setting of short period mobility in another Member State on the occasion of the revision of the Directive on recognition of professional qualifications .

4. Develop a list of approved agencies to recruit health professionals abroad through local authorities and healthcare centers' call for bids.

5 . Create a national guide for integration in the health care system, available at the regional level, containing information on the health system, the local health territory and  ethical issues.

6. Encourage teaching hospitals to conclude bilateral agreements providing for junior doctors exchanges with other health institutions of the European Union.

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