Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a new law requiring young doctors completing state-funded residency programs to undergo work placements at public hospitals and clinics for up to three years. The legislation aims to strengthen the public healthcare sector by ensuring new medical graduates gain practical experience through direct patient care. This move is part of a broader government initiative to improve healthcare infrastructure and address staffing shortages across the country.
The requirement applies to students enrolled in state-funded residency programs at medical universities. These placements will be mandatory and could span up to three years, depending on the specialization. The government argues that this measure will help bridge the gap between academic training and real-world medical practice, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
Healthcare officials have welcomed the policy as a step toward modernizing the medical profession in Russia. However, some medical professionals have expressed concerns about the potential impact on academic training and the workload for public hospitals. Despite these concerns, the government remains committed to implementing the policy as part of its long-term strategy to enhance the country’s healthcare system.