Federal Council must tackle improvements to the numerus clausus
Published: Monday, Sep 23rd 2024, 20:00
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The Federal Council must tackle improvements to the numerus clausus for medical studies. On Monday, the Council of States approved a motion to this effect as the second chamber. The aim is to train more doctors in Switzerland. Currently, 40 percent of doctors have completed their studies abroad.
The decision in favor of the motion by Benjamin Roduit (center/VS) was made by 32 votes to 9 against the will of the majority of the committee and the Federal Council. Several members of the Council of States expressed their concern about the shortage of doctors. They feared even greater shortages in view of the ageing population.
Hans Wicki (FDP/NW) described the admission procedure using cognitive tests as worth examining. Two thirds of candidates for medical studies were left empty-handed, even though they might have demonstrated other skills necessary for the medical profession. Like other Council members, he mentioned social skills, empathy, resilience and organizational skills. New approaches were needed in medical studies, and these would cost something.
Marianne Maret (center/VS) explained that the continued import of doctors would not be enough to provide basic care for the population. General practitioners are in demand. Andrea Gmür-Schönenberger (center/LU) said that the admission test for medical studies was far too one-sided.
Economics Minister Guy Parmelin unsuccessfully requested that the motion be rejected. He acknowledged that it was an important problem. However, the cantons were responsible.
©Keystone/SDA
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