KUWAIT CITY, April 28: The Kuwait Institute for Medical Specializations (KIMS) conducted its first comprehensive exam for the internship year for newly graduated doctors in medicine and dentistry on Sunday. This marks a significant step in enhancing the quality of medical training and output in Kuwait.

Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health and Secretary-General of KIMS, emphasized the importance of this exam in a press statement. He noted that the assessment is designed to ensure the scientific and practical proficiency of newly graduated doctors, which directly impacts the quality of healthcare services available to both citizens and residents. Dr. Al-Mutairi also highlighted that this initiative aligns with the ministry’s efforts to elevate Kuwait’s medical standards to match international best practices.

“The design of the exam follows scientific methodologies and approved academic standards, demonstrating the Ministry of Health's commitment to applying leading systems for medical evaluation and qualification,” Dr. Al-Mutairi said. He further explained that this initiative is in line with the ministry's goal of building a modern health system based on high-quality performance, fostering community trust in the national health services, and enhancing Kuwait’s standing in regional and global medical circles.

He added that strengthening the scientific evaluation standards for doctors would ensure high clinical performance and establish a solid professional foundation for the continuous development of health services in Kuwait.

Dr. Noura Al-Suwaih, Deputy Director of Kuwait University for Medical Sciences and Head of the Comprehensive Examination Committee for the Internship Year at KIMS, also commented on the exam. She explained that this is the first time such an exam is being held in Kuwait, and it targets resident doctors (trainees) who recently graduated from the Class of 2024 in human medicine and dentistry. The exam is a key requirement for promotion to the next level of their careers (assistant registrar).

The exam for medical doctors is called the Kuwait Medical Promotional Exam (KMPE), while dentists take the Kuwait Dental Promotional Exam (KDPE). Both exams are designed to assess the candidates’ basic knowledge and skills based on high academic and professional standards.

A total of 240 applicants participated in the comprehensive exam — 172 in human medicine and 68 in dentistry, reflecting strong interest in this critical qualification.

This exam is conducted under Ministerial Resolution No. (31) of 2024, issued by the Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi, and follows an administrative decision by Undersecretary Al-Mutairi to organize the tests in alignment with the Ministry's vision to enhance quality and ensure medical professionals’ preparedness for the evolving health system in Kuwait.