Month: May 2023

If you’ve received an offer to work as a pharmacist in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), you’re probably familiar with the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) exam. Passing this exam allows you to pursue exciting career opportunities in Dubai and the northern Emirate. Additionally, this certification grants pharmacists the freedom to work at healthcare centers in Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah.

This blog provides valuable information to help you ace the exam. Additionally, we’ll cover vital topics such as eligibility, registration, exam syllabus, and preparation tips. Now, let’s start your journey to become a officially licensed pharmacist in the UAE.

Why do pharmacists need to take an exam?

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) exam is mandatory for those wanting to get a license to practice pharmacy in the UAE. The MOHAP conducts the exam to ensure that all pharmacists have the knowledge and skills to deliver quality healthcare services to residents and visitors.

Understanding the Eligibility Criteria for the MOHAP License

The eligibility requirements for MOHAP are strict. hese provisions guarantee that only capable and qualified pharmacists are granted a license to practice in the UAE.

Applicants must have a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from a recognized institution to be eligible for a MOHAP license. They must also have at least two years of work experience in the field. Furthermore, there should be no more than a two-year gap in the applicant’s work record.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a MOHAP Pharmacist License

Follow these tips to help make the application process as smooth as possible:

Step 1: Prepare your documents

Applicants must submit evidence of their work experience and credentials during the application process. Learn what documents you will need to prepare for a background check. Scan clear digital uncropped copies of the important documents, and have them ready to upload when requested.

Step 2: Create a MOHAP account

Head to the MOHAP website and register for the licensing of pharmacists. Applicants will need to upload the required documents, including:

• Scientific and academic certificates
• Certificates of recent experience from employers
• Valid assessment certificate
• Certificate of criminal clearance
• Letter of license request from the facility
• Job offer
• List of employees licensed to work in the facility
• Copy of valid passport
• Copy of valid residence license
• Copy of valid Emirates ID card
• Pharmacist’s character reference
• List of controlled medicines (for official pharmacists only)
• Employment contract
• Labor card

Have a credit card ready to pay the AED 100 application fee and the AED 1,000 license to practice cost. Your application can take up to five working days for MOHAP to process. Use this time to prepare for the next step.

Step 3: Apply for a Primary Source Verification (PSV)

Once your application is processed, you will receive an email from the DataFlow Group – MOHAP’s official verification service provider, to complete your PSV and pay the required fees. After applying, it can take an average of 14 working days to receive your DataFlow report.

Step 4: Schedule your exam

After paying the PSV fee, applicants will receive an eligibility number from MOHAP. Subsequently, this number is needed to schedule the MOHAP exam via the Prometric website. Prometric will then collect the payment of USD 130 at the time of scheduling.

There are over 8,000 Prometric test centers in 160 countries, allowing candidates to take the exams in their home country or nearby.

Step 5: Take the MOHAP exam

Take your exam at your designated test center. You’ll need to arrive at the testing site on test day with proper identification and other required documents. You’ll also need to follow all exam instructions and procedures, such as adhering to time limits and using approved materials and equipment.

After completing these five steps, MOHAP will approve your application for a pharmacist license.

What to Expect on the MOHAP Exam for Pharmacists

The MOHAP exam requires a minimum passing mark of 60%. Results are typically provided within 2-5 days. Candidates have a maximum of three attempts to schedule the exam, which includes canceled or no-show appointments.

Top 5 Strategies to Ace the MOHAP Exam

Preparing for the MOHAP for pharmacists requires dedication, hard work, and a solid study plan. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the exam:

1. Study the syllabus: The MOHAP for pharmacists covers several topics. Therefore, study the exam syllabus and focus on the areas where you need improvement.
2. Use study materials: Additionally, there are many study materials available online and in print format, including textbooks, practice exams, and review courses. Make sure to use these resources to supplement your study plan and gain a better understanding of the exam topics.
3. Join study groups: Studying with peers can be a great way to exchange ideas, share notes, and discuss complex topics. Joining a study group can also help you stay motivated and on track with your study plan.
4. Take practice exams: Undoubtedly, taking practice exams is an excellent way to test your knowledge and identify improvement areas. Make sure to take as many practice exams as possible to increase your chances of success on the actual exam.
5. Manage your time effectively: Managing your time is crucial when preparing for the MOHAP exam. Make a schedule, schedule regular study time, and take breaks to avoid burnout.
6. Stay healthy: Staying healthy while preparing for the exam is essential. Ensure you sleep well, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly to help maintain focus and stay motivated.

 

Final Thoughts

Registering for the MOHAP for pharmacists is vital in achieving your professional goals. Proper preparation and study can increase your chances of success. Review all topics covered in the syllabus, take practice tests, get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly during your preparations. By following these tips and developing a solid plan to prepare for the MOHAP exam for pharmacists, you’ll be well-positioned to pass the exam. Good luck with your application!

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) ensures that residents and visitors in the Emirate of Dubai receive the highest standards of healthcare services. All international healthcare professionals must have a DHA license to practice healthcare anywhere in Dubai, including physicians, dentists, allied healthcare, nurses/midwives, and those working in traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine.

Although the license exam may be daunting, passing it brings you one step closer to becoming a healthcare professional in the Emirate. With preparation and guidance, you can confidently approach the exam with an understanding of the requirements and improve your chances of success.

This blog shares all the necessary DHA exam requirements and tips to prepare applicants for the assessment day.

What is the DHA license exam?

The exam is an approximate 2-hour computer-based test (CBT) managed and run by DHA’s partner, Prometric, an independent examination board. The assessment tests applicants’ medical knowledge of their field across 100-150 questions to prove they can safely practice healthcare.

Exam results are scored on a pass or failed grade based on the Unified Healthcare Professional Requirements (PQR) criteria and the DHA Licensing Healthcare Professionals policy. In addition, applicants will need a minimum score of 60%-70% (depending on the test) to pass. So if you didn’t quite make it, don’t worry. Fortunately, applicants are allowed 3 attempts for the exam.

How To Apply for the Exam

Step 1  

Before registering for the DHA license exam, new applicants must use the free Self Assessment Tool on the Sheryan portal. This quick service instantly checks if applicants meet the PQR to work in a DHA-licensed healthcare facility. Just make sure you provide the correct information about your qualifications and experience.

Applicants should log in or create a DHA account to get  their results. If the outcome is ‘not eligible’, you may apply for a ‘Review Registration Eligibility’ for your qualifications.

Step 2  

At this stage, applicants must submit essential documents such as their qualifications and experience, and apply for a Primary Source Verification (PSV) with DataFlow. Fixed packages are available:: Doctors (1,235 AED) and Nurses/Allied Healthcare (935 AED). Additional certificates may have extra charges

To avoid delays, start the PSV process early, as it takes 15-24 working days to receive your DataFlow report. Without this report, you won’t be able to proceed with your DHA license application. DHA delete draft applications that are inactive for over 6 months.

Step 3  

While submitting documents for a PSV, applicants can schedule their exam via the Prometric website. When booking, you may need to provide information, including your contacts and test details. Depending on which test you take, you will also need to pay a fee of 220 USD – 280 USD.

The good news is that Prometric’s test centers are conveniently located worldwide, with 8,000 test centers in 160 countries. This allows applicants to register, schedule, and take exams in their home country. So even if there’s no testing site in your immediate vicinity, there’s still a good chance there’s one nearby. Just keep in mind that DHA exams are only available in English.

What’s in the exam?

The exam syllabus depends on your job role and the type of license you are applying for. The exams cover roles including:

• Nurses
• General Practitioners
• Physicians
• Dentist
• Doctors
• Lab technician
• Physiotherapists

Each syllabus covers different topics with a score percentage weightage for each. Therefore, it’s essential to take the time to fully understand the exam pattern – how many questions are in the exam and how long you have to take it, as well as the topics the exam covers.

How To Ace the DHA License Exam

Here are some practical steps and guidance on preparing for the DHA exam.

You must study

Prepare for the exam with online research or explore study materials. As a qualified healthcare professional, you can also recall your practical experience. Furthermore, explore coaching centers specializing in courses for international healthcare workers like you.

Look at previous exams

Study DHA licensing exams from previous years allows you to test your knowledge and see which areas you may need to focus on. Next, set a timer, see how long it takes to complete the exam and create time management strategies to solve every question. To get the most benefit from this, try to answer the questions without researching the answers.

Take a mock practice exam

You’ve put in the time and effort to research and study for your upcoming exam, but how do you know if you’re ready? An official practice mock exam can help with this. A high pass rate can help boost your confidence. On the other hand, if you don’t pass, don’t worry – it simply highlights areas you need to focus on in your final days of preparation.

Prepare for the assessment day

• Prometric asks applicants to arrive 30 minutes before the exam. Ahead of the exam day, locate the test center and give yourself plenty of time to get there on exam day, accounting for any unexpected delays.
• Don’t forget to double-check what you’ll need to take with you, whether that’s ID or forms.
• Review the guidelines for any supporting materials you can take into the test.
• Finally, be sure you get a good night’s sleep so you have energy for the big day.

Conclusion

The exam is essential for international healthcare professionals to get a DHA license to practice in Dubai. Once you pass the exam and get your DataFlow PSV report, you can complete your registration for a license. By understanding the DHA requirements and preparing for the exam, healthcare professionals can get a license and enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding career in one of the most dynamic cities in the world.

Ready to take your healthcare career to Dubai?

DataFlow can help you get there! Verify your important documents quickly and easily with us today to sail through your Dubai Health Authority application.

 

Want to pursue a career as a medical practitioner in the United Kingdom? If yes, you should understand the General Medical Council (GMC) registration requirements. The UK is diverse and multicultural, welcoming overseas doctors of all grades and experience. But to practice medicine in the UK, you must hold a registration with a license to practice.

In this blog, we provide an overview of the registration process for overseas doctors and the documents you will need to support your application. Plus, we share tips to ensure successful gmc registration.

Things You Should Know Before You Apply

What’s the General Medical Council (GMC)?

The GMC has set the standard for medical education and training in the UK since 1858. They decide who is qualified to work as a doctor, ensuring they meet the standards necessary to keep patients safe.

The online register holds information for all Doctors in the UK and includes information such as their registration type and training. Doctors can only carry out duties such as prescribing medicine or treating patients in the UK if they are registered and licensed.

Do I need to find a job in the UK before applying to the register?

Overseas doctors can hold a GMC registration without a license to show they follow the GMC’s principles and standards of good medical practice. It’s worth checking job opportunities before applying to join the UK medical register. You can search for job opportunities on the, or the sites listed below;

• TrueProfile.io – jobs portal
• NHS – the national health service covering England and Wales
• NHS Scotland – the national health service covering Scotland
• Health and social care in Northern Ireland

 

The Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA)

From 2024, overseas doctors who wish to practice in the UK must pass the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) to join the medical register. The MLA will test their core knowledge, skills, and behaviors, ensuring they are fully prepared to provide the best healthcare to patients.

This move will improve the overall quality of healthcare in the UK and provide patients with peace of mind knowing that their doctors have the knowledge and skills to do their job. This requirement will also apply to medical students graduating from UK universities from the academic year 2024-25.

Applying to the GMC Medical Register

Practitioners must follow specific steps when applying for GMC registration. Before starting your application, read the GMC guidance to learn more about the application process and ensure you meet all the requirements.

How you apply will depend on your experience and qualifications. The most common registration types include provisional, full, specialist, and GP. GMC has created a handy tool to determine which application is right for you.

Evidence Needed When Applying for GMC Registration

All applicants must provide evidence to support their application when applying for GMC registration. Evidence includes;

1. Proof of your English language skills

Doctors wishing to practice in the UK may be asked to provide evidence of their proficiency. There are many benefits of English fluency within the healthcare industry. For patients to receive the highest quality care possible, a good command of English is crucial to ensure their safety.

2. Evidence of your fitness to practice

Additionally, to assess your fitness to practice, GMC looks at your postgraduate medical experience, non-medical experience, and other relevant activities from the past 5 years. In some cases, they may even ask for employer references or certificates of good standing from previous medical regulatory authorities you’ve been registered or licensed with.

3. Primary Source Verification (PSV)

All overseas doctors with non-UK medical qualifications must have their primary medical qualification and other documents independently verified before GMC can grant registration with a license to practice.

Tips To Successfully Complete Your Application Process

Ready to register to become a doctor in the UK? When completing the application for GMC registration, follow these tips to ensure a smooth process.

1. Read the guidance

Before diving in, check out GMC’s guides to understand what it’s like to work as a doctor in the UK, the high standards you will need to meet, and what information they may request during the process.

2. Gather all your documents

After reviewing the guides, gather all the original documents you will need, including your qualifications, experiences, and certification. Being prepared will help make the application process easy and stress-free.

3. Be honest

When you submit your online application to the GMC, you must declare that all information provided is true. You are responsible for checking that the information and evidence provided are genuine, accurate, and verifiable by background check companies. Failure to do so can lead to the refusal of your application.

4. Complete all the sections

Fill out all sections of the application form correctly and accurately to avoid delays. This includes providing all necessary documents and information requested in the application.

5. Complete your verification early

Primary Source Verification (PSV) is a mandatory step in the registration process, and it can take up to 35 days to get your report. GMC only keeps applications open for 90 days, so give yourself lots of time to complete your PSV.

Final Words

Congratulations on taking the first step towards your dream career as a medical practitioner in the UK! Applying and registering with the General Medical Council (GMC) may seem daunting, but we’ve got you covered. Follow our guide and tips to complete your GMC registration, and you’ll be a registered medical practitioner in the UK in no time. Good luck!

Verify your credentials for your GMC registration with the DataFlow Group today!