Implementation of the Bologna two-cycle system in medical education: where do we stand in 2007? - results of an AMEE-MEDINE survey.

BACKGROUND

The Bologna Declaration aims to harmonize European higher education. At workshops held at AMEE Conferences (2001/2007), it was observed that medical educators seem unaware of Bologna Declaration policies in their own countries. Specifically the objective to structure higher education in two cycles evokes strong opinions, but an overview on the implementation progress is lacking.

METHOD

To determine the present state of implementation of the Bologna two-cycle system in medical education, an AMEE-MEDINE survey was sent to all forty-six signatory countries, inquiring about legislative decisions.

RESULTS

Not all answers were unequivocal, but it appears that only seven countries decided for adoption and nineteen decided not to adopt it. The remainder fifteen have not decided or leaves the decision to their medical schools. Non-European countries seem to reject the system more often than European countries.

DISCUSSION

We found that very few persons are well informed about national policies and harmonization of medical education does not seem to be enhanced by the Bologna Declaration. Our findings point in the direction of a diversification regarding curricula structure. There is a need for clarity and dialogue on many aspects of Medical Education. The Bologna process could serve as a vehicle to reach this goal.