The World Medical Association is calling for the abolition of all policies requiring age-based retirement for doctors but recommends that their health and work ability are regularly assessed by another doctor.

Adopted last month by the association’s General Assembly, the declaration paid tribute to doctors nearing retirement, saying they were playing a valuable role in bringing their experience and knowledge to the doctor–patient relationship.

“[There should be] an appropriate and balanced evaluation of the working ability of ageing physicians who wish to continue their medical practice,” it says.

When concerns about competence arise, the World Medical Association says the doctor’s colleagues and internal management should assess whether the action is justified.