Foreign dentists in the UK will have to prove that they can speak English at the necessary level to perform their job in a safe and competent manner before being permitted to treat patients. (Photo: kyokyo/Shutterstock)

2013-9-13 | News Europe

LONDON, UK: Last week, the UK Department of Health announced its plans to introduce language tests for European medical professionals wishing to work in the UK. The new regulation will give the General Medical Council (GMC) the power to impose checks where concerns arise about a doctor’s English language competence.

According to the department, the new proposals are designed to complement and strengthen the existing language controls imposed on medical staff through the Responsible Officers Regulations, Performers Lists Regulations and other checks undertaken at a local level, which were introduced in April this year.

Health Minister Dr Dan Poulter explained that the GMC will be entitled to carry out assessments before allowing European doctors from outside the UK to treat patients in a hospital or general practice. 

By carrying out tests at a national level, the minister hopes to prevent doctors who do not have the necessary knowledge of English from treating patients. To be accepted on a centrally held list, general practitioners will have to demonstrate their ability to communicate in English. 

The new rules are expected to come into effect in 2014.