In Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) categorizes healthcare licenses based on the professional’s role and specialization. These categories are designed to ensure that healthcare providers are properly qualified and that they practice within the scope of their expertise. Here are the main categories of healthcare licenses issued by SCFHS: Physicians: Consultant: Highest level, requiring significant experience and often a subspecialty qualification. Specialist: Requires completion of specialized training and residency programs. General Practitioner: Requires a medical degree and completion of an internship. Dentists: Consultant Dentist: Highest level for dentists, similar to medical consultants, requiring advanced training. Specialist Dentist: Requires postgraduate training in a specific area of dentistry. General Dentist: Requires a degree in dentistry and completion of an internship. Nurses: Registered Nurse: Requires a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Specialist Nurse: Additional qualifications in a specific area of nursing. Technician: Lower qualification level, such as a diploma in nursing. Pharmacists: Clinical Pharmacist: Requires advanced training and education in clinical pharmacy. Pharmacist: Requires a degree in pharmacy. Allied Health Professionals: This group includes a range of healthcare professionals such as physical therapists, respiratory therapists, radiologists, and laboratory technicians. Each profession within this category has specific licensing requirements based on education and training. Technicians: Healthcare technicians in various fields like dental, laboratory, radiology, etc., requiring specific diplomas or associate degrees. Licensing Process: The licensing process generally involves: Education Verification: Confirming the candidate’s educational credentials. Professional Classification: Assessing qualifications and assigning a classification category. Examination: Passing relevant exams (e.g., SMLE for physicians). Registration: Obtaining a license to practice after meeting all requirements. Each category is clearly defined to ensure that professionals work within their competence levels, enhancing the safety and quality of healthcare services provided. SCFHS also mandates ongoing professional development to maintain these licenses, ensuring that healthcare providers remain up-to-date with the latest medical knowledge and practices.