Belgium consults Romania over quality of dental diplomas
Social Affairs and Public Health minister Frank Vandenbroucke has contacted the Romanian authorities to see how they monitor the quality of dental diplomas, following reports of fraudulent dentists practising in Belgium.
De Standaard reported on Wednesday that the Flemish Dental Association has questions about the quality of dental diplomas issued in Romania. These are on sale at private schools in the country. "We have been in contact with our Romanian colleagues, discussions have been constructive and solutions are being worked on to ensure the quality and authenticity of dental diplomas," Vandenbroucke said in a press release.
"We consider medical cooperation between our country and Romania very important"
"We consider medical cooperation between our country and Romania very important. Many Romanian doctors and health professionals work in Belgium, as in many other EU member states," he said. "In this way, we in Europe are showing solidarity with each other and helping healthcare professionals from all over Europe to alleviate the shortage of healthcare workers we face. What is important is that the quality of care for the patient always comes first."
Dentists with accreditation from outside Belgium who wish to practise here must have their diploma officially recognised. Within the EU, there is an automatic recognition mechanism based on mutual trust regarding diploma requirements.
Problems with the quality of diplomas are the responsibility of the federal states. As soon as healthcare providers are active and issues arise with billing or quality of care, the national authorities can intervene, as for other healthcare providers. This is done by the Medical Evaluation and Control Service or the Supervisory Commission.
© BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK
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