I fully share the words of the Minister of the University and Research, Annamaria Bernini: “We enhance the vocations and merit of the students”, pronounced in the aftermath of the law that abolishes the entry tests for access to the medical faculties, dentistry and veterinary. But does this reform really represent a change? Will it really be the way to review the access policies to closed number courses with criteria that, as declared by the minister, “enhance” vocations and merit? The answers to these questions could arrive with the implementing decrees of the government, which will define precisely which and how many aspiring doctors, at the end of the first semester of studies, will be able to continue their path. Only then will we know with what media and with what exams will it be possible to definitively access the course of medicine and surgery.
For the moment, we only know that there will no longer be entry tests And that, consequently, it will no longer be necessary to resort to the preparation courses. Courses that, however, generated a significant turnover, with high costs that not everyone could afford. In fact, the barrier after the first half will enhance the commitment of many, but not everyone. If, in fact, as reported by the data of the Ministry of the University and Research, in the coming years the formation of 30,000 doctors is expected, compared to the current 20,000, the increase of 10,000 units represents a step forward, but not yet sufficient to satisfy the aspirations of students nor the needs of Italian health.
It will also be necessary to consider the number of access to the specialization schools. If places in specialization schools and job opportunities will not be expanded, there is a risk of creating a “training funnel”: more graduates in medicine, but without an adequate number of available specializations or professional outlets. Without an intervention on this aspect, the problem could simply move forward in the course, generating frustration among young doctors and a possible overcrowding in the post-graduate phases. In order for the reform to be truly effective, it must be accompanied by an increase in places in specialization schools and by an enhancement of the national health system, so as to guarantee real work possibilities for future doctors. Otherwise, rather than solving the problem, you only risk sending it back.
