J Korean Acad Nurs Adm.  2020 Jan;26(1):1-10. 10.11111/jkana.2020.26.1.1.

Mutual Recognition Agreement for Nursing Professionals: Policy Issues and Alternatives

• Park E
• Kim J

• KMID: 2469363
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.11111/jkana.2020.26.1.1

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to identify the current issues concerning a mutual recognition agreement (MRA) for nursing professionals, and to suggest policy alternatives in South Korea.
METHODS
The study was conducted through a literature review.
RESULTS
The nursing MRA was signed by the European Union, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Australia-New Zealand, India-Singapore, and the Caribbean Community. The United States and Japan have not concluded a nursing MRA with other countries, but they have lowered the entry barriers for foreign nurses from certain countries. In order to prepare for a nursing MRA with developed countries such as the United States, Canada and Australia, it is necessary to establish international standards for nursing and to build a verification system for the qualifications of foreign nurses. In addition, there is a need to establish an independent professional licensing authority that assumes responsibility for all the tasks regarding a nursing license.
CONCLUSION
The findings of this study can be used as basic data for the preparation of a nursing MRA, and can contribute to the establishment of policies for foreign nurses.

Keyword

International migration; International nurses; Mutual recognition; Nurses

MeSH Terms

Asian Continental Ancestry Group
Australia
Canada
Caribbean Region
Developed Countries
Emigration and Immigration
European Union
Humans
Japan
Korea
Licensure
Nurses, International
Nursing*
United States

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