Regulation of health specialties by professional councils: Perspectives and trends in work and training

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the regulation of health specialties by professional councils, examining their implications for work and professional training. An exploratory approach was adopted through documentary analysis of regulatory frameworks from professional councils representing 12 health professions. The study examined concepts of specialty, criteria for recognition
and requirements for obtaining specialist certification. The findings revealed the absence of a shared definition of what constitutes a specialty, with limited alignment with health policies. It was also observed that most councils adopt criteria based on lato sensu postgraduate training or title examinations for granting specialist status, while few recognize health residency programs. The study concludes that the regulation of specialties reflects trends of educational commodification and fragmentation of work, highlighting the need for greater alignment with the guidelines of the Unified Health System and more effective mechanisms of state regulation.