Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) in Gujarat are seeking clarification from the Gujarat Medical Council (GMC) regarding the controversial three-year internship policy.
This move comes in response to the All India Medical Students' Association - Foreign Medical Students' Wing (AIMSA-FMSW) raising concerns over the detrimental impact of this extended internship duration on FMGs' mental and financial well-being.
The AIMSA-FMSW's letter to the GMC highlights the disparity in internship requirements, especially following a recent directive from the National Medical Council (NMC) regarding FMGs from Ukraine. While the NMC specifies a two-year clerkship and one-year internship for Ukrainian FMGs completing online final year studies, confusion persists regarding the duration for other FMGs.
Dr Kaushal Dudharejiya, representing AIMSA-FMSW in Gujarat, questions the rationale behind imposing an additional year of internship, extending FMGs' course duration significantly beyond that of Indian Medical Graduates (IMGs). He emphasizes the financial strain and mental toll this elongated period imposes on FMGs, noting the ongoing challenges in securing internships post-FMGE clearance.
This development sheds light on a broader issue of discrimination and neglect faced by FMGs in India, highlighting discrepancies in practical knowledge assessment and treatment compared to IMGs. Dr Kaushal stresses the need for authorities to address these disparities promptly, especially considering FMGs' contributions to the healthcare sector and their unique challenges during the pandemic.
The AIMSA-FMSW's proactive stance underscores the urgency of resolving these issues to ensure fair and equitable treatment for FMGs pursuing medical education in India. As discussions and appeals continue, clarity from the Gujarat Medical Council regarding internship policies remains eagerly awaited, with implications extending to the overall educational landscape for FMGs nationwide.