Indian Medical Students Can Now Practice in Foreign Countries

The Central Health Ministry has announced that Indian students from medical backgrounds can pursue postgraduation or practice medicine in foreign countries as the National Medical Commission (NMC) received the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) recognition status for ten years.

Students can now pursue post-graduation or practice medicine in countries including the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, where WFME recognition is a prerequisite.

All 706 existing medical colleges in India have received WFME accreditation. The NMC's recognition by WFME will increase the international recognition and reputation of Indian medical institutions and professionals, promote academic collaborations, and develop ongoing improvements and innovation in medical education.

The World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) is a global organisation that aims to improve the quality of medical education worldwide. Its mission revolves around the pursuit of better healthcare for all and the advancement of the highest scientific and ethical standards in medical education.

The press release further notes the pivotal role of the Education Commission on Foreign Medical Education (ECFMG) in the US, responsible for overseeing policies and regulations governing the licensing of International Medical Graduates (IMGs).

ECFMG certification is a prerequisite for IMGs seeking to undertake the United States Medical Licensing Examinations (USMLEs) and apply for residency programmes.

The WFME recognition process costs Rs 4,98,5142 ($60,000) per medical college, which covers expenses related to site visits, travel, and accommodation for assessment teams.

This implies an approximate total cost of Rs 351.9 crore ($4,23,60,000) for all 706 medical colleges in India to seek WFME recognition, with the assurance that the NMC's recognition extends to all medical colleges under its purview.