Enforcement of the TUK Decision Regarding the Issuance of Specialty Certificates to Dentists with Doctoral Degrees Has Been Suspended

In the lawsuit filed by the Turkish Dental Association (TDB) against the decision of the Board of Medical Specialization (TUK), dated June 16, 2026, which allows for the acquisition of a specialty certificate through doctoral education, the Eighth Chamber of the Council of State unanimously ruled to suspend the implementation of the decision.

The Council of State emphasized that exceptional pathways to obtaining a specialty certificate can only be regulated by law, and that the Board of Medical Specialties does not have the authority to establish a new pathway for obtaining a specialty that is not provided for by law. 

We will continue to closely monitor all developments in the legal proceedings regarding this decision and keep our colleagues informed.