Assessment of medical education: Towards an ethical system aligned with the Ministries of Education and Health

Abstract

The rapid expansion of medical schools in Brazil, coupled with the absence of a national certification exam, has raised increasing concerns about the quality of medical education and patient safety. With approximately 448 medical schools currently operating, the debate over the need for a National Proficiency Exam has been reignited. Previous initiatives, such as National Student Exam (ENADE), the Regional Medical Council of State of São Paulo (CREMESP exam), and National Serial Assessment of Medical Students (ANASEM), have not been consolidated as effective tools for assessment or licensure. Recently, the National Examination for the Assessment of Medical Education (Enamed) was introduced and is still in its early stages of implementation. In the article, are analyzed the proposals under discussion, international models and the arguments both in favor of and against the adoption of a mandatory examination. It argues that the assessment of medical competence should be part of a robust, transparent, interinstitutional system that is socially accountable and aligned with the principles of Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS).