The National Medical Commission (NMC) has embarked on a transformative journey with the introduction of the National Exit Test (NEXT) – a comprehensive examination aimed at assessing the proficiency of medical graduates in India. Recognizing the significance of collaboration with key stakeholders, the NMC is actively seeking feedback and suggestions from the Indian Medical Association (IMA), a prominent and influential body representing medical professionals across the country. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the implementation of the NEXT exam aligns with the needs and expectations of the medical community.
The IMA, with its vast network of experienced healthcare professionals and students across the country, plays a crucial role in shaping the landscape of medical education and practice in India. As the NMC endeavors to refine and implement the NEXT exam effectively, the insights and perspectives of the IMA members can provide invaluable guidance. By engaging in a dialogue with the IMA, the NMC aims to address concerns, enhance the relevance of the exam, and foster a collaborative environment that promotes the best interests of both medical professionals and the public.
What IMA says…
1. We can’t afford to train Doctors and deny degree to practice.
2. Currently uniform standards of medical education across all academic institutions does not exist and testing entire country with one test would not be feasible.
3. Using the same exam to test the basic minimum required for licensing and highest standards required for post-graduate entrance assessment is completely illogical. NEXT cannot be conducted both as a licentiate exam and a PG entrance exam, as the focus of the licensing exam should be on assessing the minimum standard while that of the PG exam should be to select the most meritorious students.
4. The suggested format of MCQ based test will only decrease the attention and interest of students in classes and clinics and help in mushrooming of coaching centers. This will seriously hamper the academic and clinical skills of the students and thereby deprive our citizens of good health. Entire Syllabus of 19 subjects has to be covered in 6 months which is an extremely difficult task for any student. MBBS Students without License would be equivalent to 12th pass and that too after investing so much of time, money and studies.
In this regard, a google feedback form has also been shared to address the issues and concern of students/ Faculty/ College/ University and it is requested to fill the form and share your valuable feedback for the better implementation of NeXT.
Feedback Form Link : https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd1EEfqcnkZVnjt3p_QFcqJTqzltscsloHqKFfw7yw-vy-CXg/viewform
As and when NeXT gets planned, we ask for extensive discussions with IMA and other stakeholders. Any change in Medical Exam system, must be implemented from Fresh Batch after proper notification to students. In light of these stipulations, we assert that NExT should not proceed until these prerequisites are duly satisfied.
