The recent approval by the Council of Ministers to transfer the competence to approve foreign degrees and studies in university education to the Basque Country has raised concerns within the medical profession. This transfer, set to take effect on July 1, 2024, could potentially create disparities in the evaluation of doctors’ skills and knowledge, leading to inequalities in the quality of medical care across the country.
The lack of homogeneity in the recognition of qualifications and in their management can have a negative impact on the quality of medical care and clinical safety. The medical profession emphasizes the importance of harmonizing criteria with the rest of the European Union to ensure excellence and equity in the training of doctors. The measure approved by the Council of Ministers goes against the harmonization efforts of the medical profession in the EU.
The rejection of this measure is based on the need for a comprehensive and coordinated vision of the National Health System to guarantee quality and equitable medical care for all Spanish citizens. The manifesto published by the WTO General Assembly calls for a co-governance model led by the Ministry of Health to ensure the right to equality in healthcare.
The Collegiate Medical Organization reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the security and equality of health care for all citizens. They stress the importance of maintaining excellence in the care of the sick and vulnerable. It is recommended that any health-related questions be consulted with a healthcare professional.