Neurosurgery certification in member societies of the WFNS: Africa and the Middle East.

Background: This study sought to compare objectively the complexity and diversity of the certification process in neurological surgery in member societies of the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) in the African and Middle Eastern regions.
Methods: This report centers on two geographic regions: Africa and the Middle East. We provide a subgroup analysis based on the responses provided to the 13-item survey sent in Part I of this study. The data received were analyzed, and three Regional Complexity Scores (RCS) were designed. To compare national board experience, eligibility requirements to access the certification process, and the obligatory nature of the examinations, a RCS-Organizational score was created (RCS-O, 20 points maximum). To analyze the complexity of the examination, a RCS-Components was designed (RCS-C, 20 points maximum). The sum of both is presented in a global RCS (RCS-G). In addition, a descriptive summary of the certification process per responding society is also provided.
Results: Based on the data provided by our RCS system, the highest RCS-G was obtained by South Africa (19 of 40 points), followed by Egypt (18 of 40 points), countries of the Gulf Neurosurgical Society (16 of 40 points), and the Neurosurgical Society of East and Central Africa (16 of 40 points).
Conclusions: This grading system allows societies to compare their process of certification within their continental region and worldwide, potentially identifying aspects for further improvement or development.
(Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)