STATEMENT
2018
25th SYMPOSIUM OF THE CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPEAN CHAMBERS OF PHYSICIANS

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC, 21 -22 September 2018

PRAGUE STATEMENT ON THE ACCESS TO THE LABOUT MARKET BY PHYSICIANS FROM THIRD COUNTRIES

The number of migrating physicians in Europe has been increasing steadily for years. In fact, the medical profession ranks among the most mobile in Europe. The migration of physicians from third countries poses unique challenges to all involved countries, either by depleting the health workforce, or in terms of the recognition process, as well as how these physicians are assimilated into the healthcare system in the country of their arrival.

Recognition procedures can be labour-intensive and also entail the risk that forged or inaccurate documents might be submitted. The authenticity and validity of diplomas and certificates cannot be determined conclusively in some cases.

Migrating physicians can encounter cultural and language barriers relating to hierarchies, the physician-patient relationship, interactions with patients/co-workers of the opposite sex, to cite some examples. Language barriers have been blamed for malpractice situations and are increasingly the subject of complaints from patients.
As members of a free profession, physicians, and the organisations that represent them, should be guided by the basic conviction of free choice of employment. At the same time, high quality standards must be maintained and the medical knowledge and skills of each individual physician must reflect the current standards and the latest scientific developments in the field of medicine.

The Medical Chambers of Central and Eastern European Countries affirm that:

Patient safety must never be jeopardised by the migration of physicians.

The interest of the healthcare systems of all involved countries should be protected, in line with WHO code of good practice.

A transparent procedure is required for third country physicians to demonstrate their medical knowledge and skills.

Qualified medical professionals from third countries should not be hindered or discouraged by unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

Medical knowledge and skills of applicants from third countries must reflect the current standards and the latest scientific developments in the field of medicine.