Moldovan-German experience exchange in reform of medical professions

Representatives of the German Federal Ministry of Health and the German Medical Association (GMA) paid a working visit to “Nicolae Testemițanu” State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, in the context of strengthening the Moldovan-German dialogue on the reform of medical professions and the development of professional self-governance.

The German delegation consisted of Andreas Botzlar, Co-Chair of the GMA Committee for International Affairs and Vice-Chair of the Bavarian Medical College, Ramin Parsa-Parsi, Head of the Department for International Affairs of the GMA, Domen Podnar, political adviser, and Galina Manthei, Head of the Directorate for Bilateral Health Policies within the German Federal Ministry of Health.

During the meeting with the university administration, First Vice-Rector Olga Cernețchi presented “Nicolae Testemițanu” USMF activity, highlighting the institution’s role in training and continuing medical education of specialists. She noted that the university is the only specialized institution in the Republic of Moldova and trains medical staff for the national healthcare system, as well as 35 other countries.

Vice-Rector for Clinical Activity Management Marcel Abraș spoke about postgraduate studies through residency, noting that over 1,300 resident doctors are enrolled in training programs in more than 60 specialties. The curriculum has been harmonized with European Union standards, and residents have the opportunity to carry out mobility internships in university hospitals abroad. At the same time, the need to develop the university clinical infrastructure was addressed, including the prospect of building regional hospitals in Cahul and Bălți.

The German model of medical self-governance was presented by Andreas Botzlar, who explained the role of the State Chambers of the College of Physicians in managing professional careers, accrediting hospitals, developing specialty curricula and organizing state examinations. In Germany, membership of physicians in these structures is mandatory, and continuing medical education is an essential requirement for practicing the profession.

On the same day, a conference dedicated to the reform of the healthcare system was held at the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Moldova, attended by the German delegation, the medical academic community, professional associations and managers of medical and sanitary institutions.

Health Minister Emil Ceban said that the exchange of experience with German partners is an important step in creating a clear framework for self-governance of medical professions and increasing professional responsibility. The discussions focused on the establishment of the College of Physicians of the Republic of Moldova, the development of continuing professional training, malpractice legislation and the alignment of the national medical system with European Union standards.