Obstacles for international medical graduates in the Netherlands after the introduction of the assessment procedure in 2005

With this article, I want to provide insight into the structural barriers faced by foreign doctors (international medical graduates; IMGs) during their requalification process in the Netherlands after the introduction of the Dutch assessment procedure. I will describe the obstacles IMGs face when they want to work as medical doctors in the Netherlands after their migration. In 2005, a new assessment procedure was introduced for non-European Union citizens with a medical background. This assessment procedure is organized by an agency of the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Sport. Without positive results on the assessment procedure exams, an IMG is not allowed to work as a medical doctor in the Netherlands. This article provides an analysis of the policies of the Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Sport over the past twenty years. In addition, the provision of information about the procedure and language requirements is discussed, as well as publications about the procedure and the results. After two decades, the obstacles for IMGs have not been overcome. On the contrary, severe problems have arisen due to the lack of examination opportunities. Between part A of the examination (language exams) and part B (clinical knowledge and skills exams), there is a waiting period of 22 months. The conclusion is that over the last twenty years, the Dutch government has failed to create sufficient preconditions for a timely and fair requalification process for IMGs. There is a great need for more testing capacity, improved information provision, and structural support for IMGs in gaining recognition of their diplomas.