Toward a European harmonization of psychiatric training: the prospects of residency training in Greece

The establishment of the European Union increased the need for uniformity of provision of medical care and medical education in European countries. Consequently, common requirements for the specialization in psychiatry have been introduced under the responsibility of a centralized European authority. This article explores the practical impact for countries such as Greece, based on the results of a survey conducted in Greek training institutions. It also outlines the importance of quality assurance and evaluation of programs in the educational reform process in Europe, together with opportunities for the development of communication and collaboration with the U.S. psychiatric educational system.