Implementation of National Licensing Examination (NLE) and its Impact on Global Healthcare: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: A license required for full practice - National licensing examinations (NLEs) are required in most of the countries with well-established medical regulatory authorities. Objective: This systematic review aims to investigate the impact of NLEs after their implementation worldwide. Methods: Systematic review designed as per Kane's validity framework developed by Olivary et al. by exploring online databases such as: Wiley Online, Embase Medline (EBSCO); PubMed; JSTOR; Google Scholar and Science Direct; from January 2005 to December 2020. Results: NLE exams and better patient outcomes (communication, satisfaction) are positively related and such exams help in development of a common medical curriculum and a better post-graduation entry point. Conclusions: In the present era, where more medical graduates are flying all across the globe for employment than ever before, NLE is becoming inevitable and helps to ensure that medical training satisfies a minimum standard of quality, which varies among Medical schools and colleges within a country and globally. Continual improvement is crucial for the identification of gaps in the medical licensing exams. The license holders must comply with National authorities and stay active in academic and clinical activities to stay licensed.