Medical students in Albania must now work in the national health system before obtaining their diplomas. The Constitutional Court ruled in July against certain provisions of the law on special treatment of students pursuing an integrated second-cycle study program in general medicine, considering the mandatory service period disproportionate. As a result, Parliament approved amendments today, adjusting the terms to three years for first-year students, two years for second to fourth-year students, and one year for fifth and sixth-year students.

Why is this important

• Like many European countries, Albania faces a shortage of doctors and nurses. This has caused serious problems for the country’s health service. The main reason for this is that a significant number of newly graduated doctors are enticed by job offers from EU countries, especially Germany.
• In Albania, higher education is free except for some annual fees paid by students. To prevent the country from running out of doctors, the government introduced the mandatory service requirement before students receive their diplomas.
• Students who refuse to sign a contract with the university and the Ministry of Health and Social Protection at the start of the academic year, outlining this obligation, must pay tuition fees equivalent to those charged by private universities.

Context

• Students protested for months against this mandate, arguing that it violates human rights. The Constitutional Court, in its ruling, found no violation of human rights as this decision serves a public interest—ensuring the right to healthcare services.
• The Court emphasized that the restriction must be proportional to the situation that necessitated it. Parliament, complying with the constitutional requirement, has now approved the new mandatory terms for students.
• Another amendment relates to the employment of doctors, who must be guaranteed financial treatment to cover basic living expenses and compensation during their waiting period for employment.
• Graduates who complete the integrated second-cycle study program in “General Medicine” at public higher education institutions and have signed agreements under the law’s provisions are prioritized for employment in healthcare institutions based on needs announced by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection. Job selection is determined by the licensed doctor’s ranking based on their average graduation grades.
• If employment is not realized within three months for reasons beyond the doctor’s control, they have the right to work in non-public healthcare institutions.

Bottom Line:

These changes reflect Albania’s strategy to retain medical professionals and ensure the country’s healthcare needs are met. The legislation balances the benefits of free education with an obligation to serve, ensuring that newly trained doctors contribute to the domestic health system before exploring opportunities abroad.