The head physician from A Russian with 20 years of experience in Germany is allowed only to work as an intern

The chief physician from the Russian Federation with 23 years of experience was offered to work in Germany as an intern, DW reports❶❷.

49-year-old single mother Tatiana Bergen moved to Germany from Russia in 2024. In the Russian Federation, she worked as a radiologist for 23 years, managed a large clinic, was engaged in scientific activities and taught. After the move, she passed the exam in German medical terminology, collected and translated all the necessary documents, and also interned for several months at a hospital in Halle.

"Nevertheless, the examination recognized that her education is not equivalent to German and Bergen cannot get permission to practice medicine. The authorities offered her to pass the qualification exam, but even after it, Tatiana will be considered a doctor just starting her professional career (Berufsanfängerin). Her 23-year experience will not be taken into account. To obtain the status of a specialist doctor (Fachärztin), she will have to completely re-complete the postgraduate specialization program (Facharztausbildung), which usually lasts 5-6 years. For 49-year—old Bergen, this option is unacceptable," the publication says.

At the same time, in the federal state of Saxony-Anhalt, where Tatiana lives, more than 200 positions in the field of medicine are vacant. However, bureaucratic barriers do not allow experienced specialists to occupy them. Tim-Ole Petersen, the head physician of the clinic where the woman was trained, calls what is happening "a real problem" and "playing with people's despair." He notes that he would love to hire Bergen.

"She is an experienced specialist and has the necessary qualifications in the field of diagnostic radiology. Bergen was very dedicated to her work and constantly communicated with people to improve her German," he told the Mitteldeutscher Rundfunk broadcaster.

Now Tatiana is challenging the decision in court. If the lawsuit is not satisfied, she does not exclude that she will leave Germany for another country. While a doctor with many years of experience is looking for a job as a secretary.

❶An organization performing the functions of a foreign agent

❷An organization whose activities are deemed undesirable on the territory of the Russian Federation