529 Foreign-Trained Medical and Dental Graduates Unsuccessful in MDCN's Assessment Examination

According to the examination report obtained from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) on Sunday, a total of 529 foreign-trained medical and dental graduates did not pass the two-day assessment examination held on Wednesday, July 12, and Thursday, July 13, 2023. The examination took place at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, Oyo State. In total, 704 medical and 30 dental foreign-trained graduates participated in the assessment examination.

Nevertheless, the council reported that only 189 medical graduates and 16 dental graduates successfully passed the examination. Conversely, a total of 515 medical graduates and 14 dental graduates did not meet the required standards and were deemed unsuccessful in the examination.

The primary responsibility of the MDCN is to oversee and regulate the practice of Medicine, Dentistry, and Alternative Medicine in the country, ensuring the protection and integrity of the nation's healthcare system.

The MDCN assessment examination is mandatory for all foreign-trained doctors intending to practice in Nigeria. This examination assesses the candidates' proficiency in applying their fundamental medical sciences and clinical skills within a healthcare environment.

Addressing the outcome, Dr. Tajudeen Sanusi, the Registrar of MDCN, expressed concern about the low pass rate, standing at 27.4 per cent. Nevertheless, he emphasized the importance of the assessment exam to safeguard the health of Nigerians. Dr. Sanusi highlighted that prioritizing the well-being of the populace is paramount, and it is preferable to have fewer qualified doctors than risk the health of citizens. He called for collective efforts to ensure the country's healthcare system is in the best possible state.

He mentioned that the assessment examination is a standard procedure followed worldwide.

"It's a global norm that if you undergo training in one jurisdiction and wish to practice in another, you must undergo an assessment exam. Even if you hold the esteemed title of a professor of medicine in your home country and have never practiced in the United Kingdom or the United States, if you plan to work there, you'll need to undergo their assessment exam. So, this practice is universally recognized," he explained.