One of the new provisions concerns the recognition of qualifications held by citizens of EU countries, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland. For physicians, dentists, pharmacists, general nurses, and midwives, the bill proposes implementing an automatic recognition procedure. For other medical specialties, the general procedure will remain in place, which provides for a probationary period if necessary.
The bill also changes the certification system for physicians. Instead of the current model, the bill proposes introducing three types of certification: initial certification—for admission to the profession; periodic certification—for renewal of the right to practice; and special certification—for specialists returning to work after a long hiatus or other restrictions.
According to the document, a national professional card will be introduced into the system. It will replace existing permits, serve as a single confirmation of the right to practice medicine, and be issued for a period of five years. All information about its holders will be entered into a unified registry of certified specialists. There will be a fee for the card, and the government will approve the fee calculation methodology at a later date.
The new rules will apply to all medical and pharmaceutical professionals in both public and private institutions.
The National Council for Evaluation and Accreditation in Healthcare (CNEAS) will play a key role in the new system. It will be responsible for recognizing professional qualifications, conducting certification, issuing documents, and interacting with European bodies. To this end, a specialized unit will be established within the council.
According to the authorities’ estimates, operating this unit will cost approximately 2.2 million lei per year. Additionally, between 2026 and 2028, approximately 11.2 million lei will be needed for the digitization of processes, staff training, and the creation of a new certification system.
The bill has been submitted for public consultation, after which it will be considered by Parliament.
