‘Did I pass the licensing exam?’ aspects influencing migrant physicians’ results: a mixed methods study

Abstract

ObjectivesMigrant physicians (MPs) who wish to practise their profession in a new country often must undergo a recertification process, including a licensing exam. In many cases, this is the same licensing exam used for peers educated within the country; however, the pass rate of MPs is usually lower. This study aimed to explore MPs exam results, focusing on MPs that had participated in a complementary programme (CPP) for physicians with a medical degree from outside the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA), and aspects that may influence these.MethodsMixed methods were applied. The data consisted of 2013 to 2019 licensing exam results of 564 physicians in Sweden that were educated outside of the EU. The data was analysed using linear and logistic regression analysis. Further, 14 interviews with MPs were conducted and thematically analysed.ResultsAn interaction between age and CPP participation was found for both the total score in per cent (p=0.01) and for the proportion failing their first attempt (p=0.04). Age was found to be a very strong predictor for failing on the first attempt, with those 45 and older failing on the first attempt in 72 and 82 per cent for CPP and non-CPP participants, respectively. Interview data was categorised into two themes: preparations and biographical aspects, and the exam and exam situation.ConclusionsAge seems to be an important predictor for failing the first attempt. MPs have had less time to familiarise themselves with the exam type and the language used on the exam. To improve exam results, MPs used different strategies and tools, that is, studying with nationally trained physicians, and using old exams and a web-based study tool consisting of common exam subjects. At the same time, these strategies and tools have also become mediators in the socialisation of MPs into the exam context.

Are we passing the acceptable? Standard setting of theoretical proficiency tests for foreign‐trained dentists

“…However, working within the dental care area could contribute to the added experience of the dental profession in a Swedish context, and the development of overall language skills and dental terminology. Lower scores associated with higher age and language proficiency in this study are also comparable to physicians taking the Swedish proficiency test for physicians 45 . Other studies confirm the importance of verbal skills and language skills needed to understand questions 46,47 …”

“…Lower scores associated with higher age and language proficiency in this study are also comparable to physicians taking the Swedish proficiency test for physicians. 45 Other studies confirm the importance of verbal skills and language skills needed to understand questions. 46,47 The significant difference between genders was somewhat surprising, as both men and women are similarly educated with a dental degree from a higher education.…”