State Medical Association conducts specialist language examinations for foreign doctors in Saxony

The State Medical Association has so far conducted a total of 3,650 specialist language examinations that foreign doctors need for a professional license in Saxony. This year alone, there have already been 504, including 332 first-time examinations and 172 retakes. At almost 300, most of the candidates came from Syria, where graduates often learn German directly after their studies and apply to leave the country.

According to the chamber, examinations are now held up to two days a week in order to keep registration deadlines as short as possible. Short-notice rejections due to a lack of language skills or multiple failures are reportedly making organization more difficult, resulting in waiting times. Simulated interviews with the patient and doctor as well as the written reproduction of the medical history and findings must be passed.

Clear language essential for communication

The exams have been in place since May 2016 and were introduced after the general language certificates and diplomas previously offered to test the language skills required to practice the profession were not suitable for practical use.

Doctors need to be able to understand the content of their patients without asking essential questions and be able to "communicate spontaneously and fluently" in order to inform patients and relatives about their findings, illness and treatment. A clear understanding is also necessary when working with colleagues and a command of the German language for documentation purposes.