Viren Naik¹
Prideaux David², Brian Hodges³_, Wilkinson Tim⁴, O'Connor Nick⁵ and Heeneman Sylvia⁶
1 Medical Council of Canada
2 Flinders University
3 Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
4 University of Otago
5 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists
6 Maastricht University

Background:
 The global health human resource crisis, characterized by a shortage of healthcare professionals in many regions, has sparked debates regarding the future of high- stakes certification exams for medical licensure. This pro-con debate symposium aims to critically examine the topic and explore divergent perspectives on the role and relevance of these exams in addressing the crisis. 

Importance for Research and Practice:
The future of high-stakes certification exams for medical licensure is a topic of significant importance for both research and practice. This symposium provides a platform for stakeholders to engage in an evidence-based discussion, enabling a deeper understanding of the potential benefits, limitations, and alternatives to these exams in addressing the global health human resource crisis. 

Symposium Format and Participant Engagement Methods:
The symposium will feature a pro- con debate format, with experts representing different viewpoints presenting their arguments. The symposium will incorporate interactive elements such as audience polling, Q&A sessions, and small-group discussions to encourage active engagement and participation. The debate will be structured, allowing participants to critically analyze the arguments presented and foster meaningful dialogue. 

a) Enhanced understanding of the role and impact of high-stakes certification exams in addressing the global health human resource crisis. 

b) Identification of the potential benefits and drawbacks of maintaining or reforming the current exam system. 

c) Exploration of alternative approaches to medical licensure and workforce development that can address the crisis. 

d) Promotion of evidence-based decision-making and the integration of multiple perspectives in shaping future policies and practices. 

e) Identification of research gaps and the need for further studies to evaluate the effectiveness and equity of different certification exam models. 

The symposium outcomes will contribute to informed decision-making, policy development, and practice improvement in the context of medical licensure and the global health human resource crisis. 

References (maximum three) 

Jolly B. National licensing exam or no national licensing exam? That is the question. Med Educ 2016 50, 12-14. 

Pearce J, Reid K, Chiavaroli, Hyam D. Incorporating aspects of programmatic assessment into examinations. Aggregating rich information to inform decision-making. Med Teach 2021 43(5), 567-574. 

Lambert LWT, van der Vleuten C. A history of assessment in medical education. Adv in Health Sci Educ 2023 28, 659-664.