International Briefs

CanadaChanges to the TDM Examination in 2026The Medical Council of Canada (MCC) is pleased to announce the implementation of a new assessment model for the Therapeutics Decision-Making (TDM) Examination, planned for January 2026. Administered by the MCC on behalf of the Practice-Ready Assessment (PRA) programs, the TDM Examination is part of the selection process for qualified internationally trained physicians to enter most PRA programs.To enhance the candidate experience and increase the efficiency of the exam process, a new format will be implemented featuring multiple-choice questions and short-menu questions divided into two sections, and an optional 20-minute break between the sections will be offered. The MCC anticipates these changes will also allow for a faster release of results.The revised TDM Examination will maintain its integrity, validity and reliability, with the questions assessing the competence of candidates at the level required of a family physician practicing independently and safely in Canada.The exam will continue to be delivered globally through Prometric both at test centers and via remote proctoring.The MCC website will be updated with additional information as it becomes available.Further information is available at https://mcc.ca/news/changes-to-the-tdm-examination-in-2026/IndiaAdditional Medical Seats to Solve Doctor Shortage?In the Union Budget 2025, India's Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the addition of 10,000 new medical seats across medical colleges and hospitals in the coming year to help address the nation's doctor shortage. This is part of a broader plan to increase India's medical education capacity by 75,000 seats over the next five years. However, regional disparities in doctor distribution, infrastructure challenges, and the retention of medical professionals in rural areas remain key hurdles to achieving healthcare equity across India.Further information is available at https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/education/news/will-indias-10000-new-medical-seats-solve-the-doctor-shortage-crisis/articleshow/117824316.cms