The recognition of foreign medical degrees in Germany is a long and often challenging process. In this blog post, we share the experiences of Dr. Riddhi Bhimajiani, an Indian doctor who successfully obtained her German medical license (Approbation). Her journey is an inspiring example for other foreign doctors who wish to follow the same path. This article provides detailed insights into her experiences, challenges, and tips, and serves as a valuable guide for others in a similar situation.
Riddhi Bhimajiani is an Indian doctor who came to Germany as part of a family reunification. With the goal of having her qualifications recognized in Germany, she attended the qualification course "Preparation for Approbation for Human Medicine Professionals with Foreign Degrees" at the BRMI Academy for Healthcare Professions in Frankfurt from January 2023 to October 2023. She was supported by the Employment Agency, which provided her with an education voucher. The course covered the following content:
Intensive German for Medical Professionals (Fachsprache Deutsch intensiv)
Deepening and Adapting Existing Medical Knowledge – Medical Review Course (Vertiefung und Anpassung des vorhandenen Fachwissens – medizinisches Repetitorium)
Observation Phase in Medical Settings (Hospitationsphase)
Tutorials & Professional Meetings (Tutorials & Fachtreffen)
Intensive Exam Simulations (Intensive Prüfungssimulationen)
Equipped with high motivation and through her great dedication, she was able to complete the course, which consists of more than 1,550 teaching units, with excellent success.
Successfully Achieving the German Medical License: After passing the knowledge examination, she was granted the German medical license (Approbation) to practice as a doctor in Germany by the Hessian State Office for Health and Care in January 2024.
Personal Experience: The Path to Obtaining the German Medical License (Approbation)
Ms. Bhimajiani, what experience did you have with the application process, and what waiting times did you encounter?
After submitting all the documents, I received a confirmation within 10 days. Despite this quick response, it took almost a year before I could take the knowledge examination. This waiting period was particularly frustrating and lengthy. It is important to use this time wisely, to keep learning, and not to lose sight of the goal.
How is the knowledge examination conducted?
The knowledge examination consists of two parts: patient history and examination, as well as writing a medical report.
In Part 1 of the exam, the focus was on patient history and examination. It lasted about 20 minutes. My case involved deep vein thrombosis.
My tip for everyone who still has the KP ahead of them: I recommend keeping the patient history as brief as possible to allow more time for the examination.
In Part 2, I had to write a medical report. I did not find this part of the exam particularly difficult because I was well-prepared. The numerous exercises provided in the BRMI Academy course gave me the necessary confidence.
My tip: You should practice writing medical reports frequently to be secure in both content and, most importantly, to be precise in your language.
Which aspects of the exam are important, and what tips can you give your colleagues?
Focus on practical aspects.
Based on my experience, the exam mainly consists of practical questions and clinical cases, such as vaccinations and specific symptoms.
Make sure your CV accurately reflects your professional background, as the examiners will ask targeted questions about the activities you listed. Inconsistencies in your CV can lead to complicated questions.
Practice time management: During the exam, it’s important to stay calm and answer in a well-structured manner. You should speak clearly and focus on the essentials.
Keyword differential diagnoses: It's crucial to be familiar with different diagnostic possibilities and their corresponding tests (e.g., lab values, ECG) and know how to apply them.
What were your experiences during the exam?
There were various exam scenarios. The examiners presented different clinical cases, such as pneumonia or respiratory issues. You need to be able to establish differential diagnoses and interpret appropriate tests, such as lab results and ECGs.
In the exam, questions about ECGs and specific clinical values are common. For example, I was shown an ECG and had to explain potential complications.
It is important to be prepared for follow-up questions and additional information. For example, I was given a patient's CO2 and pH values, and I had to derive the correct diagnosis from them.
Correctly interpreting the examiners' behavior is important. The examiners can be strict, but projecting confidence through thorough preparation and clear answers can help soften their demeanor. It also helps to explain all steps and examinations out loud.
What preparation strategy do you recommend?
Everyone needs an individual preparation strategy, of course. From my perspective, the right learning methodology is crucial. I recommend studying regularly, creating a structured plan, and learning in groups if possible. Libraries are excellent places to study as they offer a focused environment.
Continuous repetition of what you've learned is essential. It's particularly important to thoroughly work through the 40 most critical topics.
Even after completing the preparation course, you should continue studying independently for another two to three months to solidify your knowledge.
Are there any organizational tips and advice?
Prepare your travel and time management meticulously. I recommend arriving early and planning enough buffer time to reach the exam without stress. Ideally, travel the day before and stay in a hotel to ensure you are well-rested on the day of the exam.
In Hesse, the exams are held in different locations, such as Marburg or Bad Nauheim. I learned that these locations have different organizational procedures, and the number of candidates can vary.
What happens after the exams?
After passing the FSP (Fachsprachenprüfung), I received a registration confirmation for the knowledge examination from the relevant state examination office.
With the specialist language certificate, it is possible to work under a temporary medical license (Berufserlaubnis). During this phase, you should focus on your work while continuing to study alongside. This will contribute to your confidence in the later knowledge examination.
Take advantage of the option to prepare for the exam during a period of unemployment. There is the possibility to register as unemployed after a sufficient working period, allowing you to study intensively for the knowledge examination while being financially supported.
Conclusion
I am glad that I successfully achieved recognition in Germany. My conclusion is: thorough preparation, such as the course at the BRMI Academy for Healthcare Professions, combined with personal effort and understanding of the practical requirements, is the key to success. It's important to provide an accurate CV, be well-prepared for the exam scenarios, and remain calm and structured. Organizational aspects, such as arriving on time and thorough exam preparation, also play a crucial role.
About the BRMI Academy for Healthcare Professions gGmbH
The BRMI Academy for Healthcare Professions operates as a non-profit organization and possesses extensive expertise in the counseling and professional integration of medical professionals from abroad. Many of our participants are now working successfully in the German healthcare system.
With years of experience and proven success in the professional integration of medical doctors, dentists, veterinarians, pharmacists, and nurses with foreign qualifications, we are the right partner if your goal is to work in your trained profession in Germany.
Our courses are specifically designed to prepare you for the C1 specialist language exam and the knowledge exam required to obtain the medical license (Approbation). The management system of the BRMI Academy is certified by the German Society for the Certification of Management Systems (DQS) according to the requirements of the AZAV.
Our experienced language and subject matter instructors, together with the course mentors, will guide you on your path. Additionally, our advisors are available to assist you with questions about the recognition process, social and family issues, or your learning process. If needed, we can also actively support you in applying for the Approbation.
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