In light of the challenges encountered by Indian medical students in the Philippines and Ukraine, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has released a comprehensive public notice. Due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, COVID-19 disruptions, and evolving regulations, this summary aims to simplify the key points of the notice, helping students to navigate the complexities with ease.
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### Section 1: Addressing Challenges for FMGs in Ukraine
*Issue: Students Who Have Completed Courses*
- *Explanation:* FMGs who have finished their medical courses in Ukraine need to acquire Provisional Registration from their State Medical Council. They must complete a one-year Clinical Rotation in India (CRMI) under the 2021 regulations and are entitled to stipends similar to Indian Medical Graduates.
*Issue: FMGs with Break in Final Year*
- *Explanation:* FMGs whose final year was disrupted by COVID-19 or war are required to undertake a one-year Clinical Clerkship (CC) in India to cover the gap in their training. Indian Medical Colleges may charge a clerkship fee, capped at Rs. 5000 per month. Upon completion, they can proceed to CRMI with stipend eligibility.
*Issue: FMGs with Break in Penultimate Year*
- *Explanation:* Students who had interruptions in their penultimate year must undergo a two-year Clinical Clerkship. This is documented in a logbook authenticated by their college. The extended clerkship ensures comprehensive training and clinical exposure.
*Issue: Continuation for Existing FMGs*
- *Explanation:* FMGs currently in internships can complete their two-year requirement before receiving Permanent Registration from their State Medical Council.
*Issue: Study Continuation in Another Country*
- *Explanation:* The notice permits FMGs from Ukraine to utilize the Academic Mobility Program to complete their studies in another country, with degrees awarded by the new university. This must be availed within three months of the notice.
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### Section 2: Navigating Changes for FMGs from the Philippines
*Issue: De-recognition of the BS Course*
- *Explanation:* Following the de-recognition of the BS Course in the Philippines as of November 18, 2021, students enrolled in the MD Course by this date can complete their studies. After passing the FMG Examination in India, they must complete a one-year internship to address any training deficiencies.
*Issue: Conditions for Study Breaks*
- *Explanation:* Students who experience breaks during their studies must follow the conditions in the notice, similar to the guidelines for Ukraine.
*Issue: Additional Years of Clerkship*
- *Explanation:* The notice emphasizes the requirement for additional years of clerkship to ensure proper training and practical clinical exposure, which is deemed necessary for the well-being of the country's citizens.
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### Section 3: Issuance of Eligibility Certificate (EC) to FMGs
*Issue: Background and EC Requirements*
- *Explanation:* The necessity of the Eligibility Certificate (EC) for Indian students pursuing pre-medical education abroad is highlighted. Criteria based on age and 10+2 marks are specified in the Public Notice dated September 14, 2018, and the High Court Order dated September 27, 2018. Students must provide admission records, travel details, and certified passport copies showing these details to obtain an EC.
*Issue: One-Time Exemption for NEET-2018 & 2019*
- *Explanation:* A one-time exemption from the NEET-2018 & 2019 requirement is granted to Indian citizens/OCIs who left for pre-medical/medical courses in the academic years 2018-19 & 2019-20, based on amendments to the Screening Test Regulations, 2002.
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### Section 4: Time Limit for FMG Examination
*Issue: Time Limit for Appearing in FMG Examination/ NExT*
- *Explanation:* A ten-year time limit from the completion of training/course at a Foreign Medical Institution is introduced for taking the FMG Examination/ NExT.
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The NMC's public notice offers essential guidance for Indian medical students studying abroad. By detailing each issue and solution, this summary helps students make informed decisions about their medical education and future careers.
Good News for FMGs from Ukraine and Philippines: An NMC Update!