Bill to Establish National Graduate School of Medicine Passes National Assembly, Sparking Medical Sector Opposition

A bill to establish a National Graduate School of Medicine for training public healthcare professionals has passed the National Assembly's plenary session. This new system, following closely behind discussions on increasing medical school quotas and the regional doctor system, is escalating opposition from the medical community.

The government plans to open the National Graduate School of Medicine by 2030, admitting around 100 students annually. These graduates will be obligated to work in public health medical institutions for 15 years after obtaining their medical licenses. The National Graduate School of Medicine Act mandates the state's direct establishment of the school to train doctors for public healthcare roles. Graduates will be required to serve for 15 years in public health institutions designated by the Minister of Health and Welfare. The government has commenced preparations for subordinate legislation, formation of an establishment committee, and curriculum development research. Specific details regarding tuition support, student selection methods, and the designation of service institutions will be determined through enforcement decrees and subsequent procedures. If the regional doctor system and the National Graduate School of Medicine are implemented concurrently as planned, the annual doctor training capacity is projected to increase to 3,871 by 2030.

The medical sector is opposing the bill, arguing that its objectives are not significantly different from those of the already proposed regional doctor system. Concerns are being raised about potential confusion and duplication in the public healthcare workforce training system if two programs with similar goals—securing regional and essential medical personnel—operate simultaneously. The regional doctor system requires a 10-year mandatory service period, supported by scholarships, while the National Graduate School of Medicine imposes a longer 15-year commitment. The medical community opposes the plan, citing its redundancy with existing policies.

The medical profession has argued that simply increasing enrollment numbers will not resolve shortages in essential and regional medical services, and could lead to intensified competition for professionals among hospitals and a decline in educational quality. Questions are being raised about whether national and local medical centers, which already serve regional essential healthcare needs and function as training hospitals, can effectively take on the educational role for the new graduate medical school. It has been pointed out that establishing a public hospital-centered educational system quickly will be difficult, especially as existing university hospitals are already burdened with resident training while simultaneously managing clinical duties.

The passage of the National Graduate School of Medicine bill has further complicated discussions surrounding doctor selection, placement, and service management. Deliberations are needed on student selection criteria, institutional assignments, sanctions for those who leave service, and methods for connecting with regional healthcare sites. The Ministry of Health and Welfare has stated that establishing and operating the National Graduate School of Medicine requires essential preparatory steps, including constructing educational facilities, developing curricula, and building operational systems. The medical community has indicated it will maintain its opposition even after the bill's passage and intends to continue voicing its disapproval.