The article deals with transitivity processes in the field of higher medical education. Several trends related to transitivity processes are highlighted: the high demand for medical education with a shortage of qualified specialists; the continuing medical education and the introduction of an accreditation exam; the introduction of distance technologies, simulation and e-learning; specialist mobility. Thus, the educational process in the context of transitivity processes in the field of medical education should be focused on the formation of self-improvement skills, self-education. The article describes the functions of the students’ independent work in a medical university and the conditions that increase the effectiveness of the educational process. The article defines the role of the organization of student’s independent work in the development of self-education and self-improvement skills. The student’s independent work is considered as one of the forms that allow students to develop self-education and self-improvement skills, taking into account their abilities. The independent work as a form of self-improvement is aimed at developing the skills of independent search and choice of problem solutions; developing the skills of information analysis when working with a large volume of educational material; provides the development of critical thinking skills; stimulating the skills of evaluative and reflexive activity in the context of dynamic changes in the professional sphere.