Formulating a structured description of the levels of qualifications recognized in the health system

Abstract

Issue Constantly emerging new challenges for national health systems (HS) and new technologies require the creation of conditions for the continuous provision of the HS with the necessary number of health workers (HW) with the appropriate level of qualifications. In this regard, the high relevance acquires the formulation of a structured description of levels of qualifications in the HS, the requirements for the future and existing qualifications, taking into account the priorities of the HS development, as well as mapping of occupations by the qualification level. Description of the Problem The main problems in regulating the sectoral qualifications system (SQS) in Kazakhstan is the lack of a sectoral framework of qualifications (SQF) and professional standards governing the requirements for specialists in the HS, and the lack of a clear distinction of competencies by the qualification level. Accordingly, there is a discrepancy between educational programs and practical health care needs, and an imperfection of the HWs certification system. Changes: We have incorporated into the National Code 'On the health of the people and the HS' points that define the SQS basic principles and regulation. As SQS has been defined set of legal and institutional mechanisms to control demand of HWs from the labor market and the qualifications offer from the health education system. SQS includes SQF; professional standards; state compulsory health education standards; system for assessing the professional preparedness and certification of specialists; system of continuing professional development of HWs. For a structured description of the levels of qualifications recognized in the HS we developed SQF. In SQF all HWs were divided into sub-sectors: medicine, pharmacy, public health and intersubsectoral processes. Lessons The presence of an effective SQS will create the conditions for providing the HS with human resources that meet the needs of the state, business and society. Key messages We have analyzed the existing system for regulating the qualifications of health professionals and have proposed legislative mechanisms for regulating the SQS in the field of healthcare. This made it possible to ensure conditions for effective legal regulation of the HWs qualification demands from the labor market and the supply of qualifications from the health education system.