Syrian American Medical Society Foundation

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Education Institute

Building a Resilient Future Through Medical Education

Established in 2023, the SAMS Institute is the dedicated arm of the Syrian American Medical Society focused on enhancing medical education & training for healthcare professionals in conflict-affected regions, laying the groundwork for stronger health systems & brighter futures.

Our mission is clear: to support the excellence of education for conflict-affected health professionals in Syria and beyond, ultimately improving the health and wellness of all. We believe that empowering local talent through high-quality training is the most profound way to rebuild and strengthen healthcare in the world’s most challenging environments.

At SAMS, we implement undergraduate and postgraduate initiatives, including comprehensive training programs for physicians and other health professionals. Our focus is on increasing the quality of training and the robust monitoring and evaluation of such programs. SAMS offers in-person and remote training programs to maximize cost-effectiveness and accessibility for students, actively engaging international instructors and educators to bring global expertise to local needs.

Explore Our 2024 Impact

A Decade of Dedication

For over a decade, SAMS has invested in building a resilient healthcare workforce. Here's a snapshot of our commitment to education and training:

100+

Syrian refugee students
awarded scholarships
since 2016.

40+

Scholarship students
currently supported.

30+

Residents and fellows
trained into practicing
physicians in Northern Syria.

250+

Nurses graduated from
SAMS programs.

100+

Midwives graduated,
significantly boosting
maternal care capacity.

10+

Postgraduate residency and
fellowship programs
managed by SAMS.

Explore Our Comprehensive Medical Education Programs

At the SAMS Institute, we are dedicated to building a skilled and resilient healthcare workforce in conflict-affected regions. Discover our diverse range of programs designed to empower medical professionals at every stage of their career.

Undergraduate Medical Education

We support aspiring medical students with financial resources and mentorship. Our programs include specialized courses during missions and vital internships, building foundational skills for future healthcare leaders.

Postgraduate Training

SAMS manages over ten vital residency and fellowship programs in Northern Syria. We train medical graduates in critical specialties like ICU, oncology, and surgery, filling crucial gaps in local health systems.

Simulation-Based Learning

Our state-of-the-art simulation labs provide immersive, practical training for healthcare professionals. This innovative approach enhances clinical competencies and patient safety in high-stakes environments.

Allied Health Education (Nursing & Midwifery)

SAMS develops and delivers accredited nursing and midwifery programs to address workforce shortages. We train skilled professionals crucial for maternal care and overall community health.

Mental Health & MHPSS

We provide advanced education in clinical psychology, psychiatric nursing, and psychosocial work. Our programs train qualified mental health providers to address the profound psychological impact of conflict.

Continuing Medical Education (CME)

SAMS offers ongoing training to ensure medical personnel stay updated with the latest advancements. Our CME initiatives standardize practices and introduce vital new procedures for improved patient care.

SAMS Medical Technical Institute

Established in 2017, this institute provides high-quality academic and vocational training. We equip students with practical skills, fostering a robust and skilled healthcare workforce in the region.

Scholarship Program

Since 2016, our scholarships empower Syrian refugee students to pursue health professions globally. We provide financial and mentorship support, nurturing future doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals.

Join the SAMS Institute Community

Join the SAMS Institute Community

Be part of our private Facebook group—a dynamic hub for healthcare students, professionals, and allied health workers across Syria and the region.

Get the latest updates on SAMS educational programs

Access exclusive lectures, webinars, and training opportunities

Network with over 2,500 peers and mentors in the field

Join us today and grow with a community committed to building the future of healthcare.

Join the Facebook Group

2024 Highlights:
Medical Education in Syria

State-of-the-Art Simulation Lab Launched

  • Advancing Clinical Excellence in Northwest Syria
  • In early 2024, SAMS opened its first state-of-the-art Simulation Lab at Qah Hospital, profoundly impacting over 220 healthcare professionals. This facility significantly improved clinical competencies, emergency preparedness, and patient safety.
  • Key Details:Indirectly benefited 75,240 patients in 6 months; supported by Direct Relief. It was integrated into nursing, midwifery, and postgraduate programs.

New Specialties in Postgraduate Medical Education

  • Expanding Access to Advanced Medical Training
  • SAMS significantly expanded its residency and fellowship programs in 2024, adding Internal Medicine, Pulmonology, Gastroenterology, Nephrology, Neuro ICU, and Pediatric/Adult Cardiology. These new tracks empowered general practitioners to pursue vital specialization.
  • Key Details: 37 residents and fellows were enrolled; programs ran at Al Ziraa Academic, Bab Al Hawa, and Idlib Central Hospitals.

Postgraduate Graduation Success

  • Strengthening Critical Care in Northern Syria
  • A major milestone in 2024 was the graduation of six fellows from our Adult ICU program. These highly trained professionals are now bolstering critical care services across northern Syria. SAMS also planned new OBGYN, Radiology, Endocrinology, Pediatric Neurology, Pediatric ICU, and Adult EP Cardiology programs for 2025.
  • Key Details:Six fellows graduated from Adult ICU program. New programs were planned for 2025.

Enhanced Medical Education During Missions

  • Intensive Training for Local Healthcare Providers
  • Our 2024 medical missions in northern Syria included intensified educational components, with over 850 professionals joining for hands-on and advanced theoretical training. Topics covered critical care, neonatal neurology, and oncology, among others.
  • Key Details:269 doctors were trained in 16 hands-on sessions; 925 medical students and residents participated in 18 lecture sessions.