Credentialling immigrant physicians in Israel

Credentialling of immigrant physicians is discussed in the context of two sets of high-priority values which have remained constant in Israel since its founding: (a) an open, non-selective migration policy which has resulted in the entry of thousands of immigrant physicians, (b) the high priority accorded to quality health care. These values and their social implications are discussed in terms of the licensing procedures before 1988 and after that date when more stringent procedures were initiated. These processes are discussed with special reference to the large number of immigrant physicians that have come to Israel from the former Soviet Union since 1989.