KUWAIT CITY, Oct 9: The Kuwait Institute for Medical Specializations (KIMS) has adopted a new mechanism for applying to its fellowship programs, marking a significant step in advancing specialized medical education and training in the country, Secretary General Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi announced Thursday.

The move, approved by KIMS’ Board of Trustees, aligns with the Ministry of Health’s broader efforts to modernize and enhance postgraduate medical education in line with international standards.

According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Health, the new application mechanism permits doctors enrolled in Kuwaiti Board programs to apply for fellowship training after completing the fourth level of their board curriculum. Candidates who pass this stage will be allowed to participate in personal interviews, with final acceptance contingent upon successfully passing the board’s final examination. Upon graduation, doctors will be able to transition directly into the fellowship program.

Dr. Al-Mutairi emphasized that the decision is designed to support national medical talent and streamline their professional development by reducing the time gap between completion of board training and entry into fellowship programs.

“This reflects our commitment to building a strategic and competitive healthcare workforce capable of meeting both regional and international challenges,” he said. “The Board of Trustees reached this decision following a comprehensive review of training needs, aiming to strike a balance between maintaining high-quality standards and enabling professional growth opportunities for doctors.”

He further noted that KIMS remains focused on enhancing its academic and clinical offerings to contribute to the Ministry of Health’s vision of a sustainable, specialized healthcare system led by well-qualified national professionals.

The initiative underscores the government's long-term commitment to investing in medical human capital and elevating Kuwait’s standing in the field of medical education and healthcare excellence.