Iraq plans new medical specialization centers across Arab countries

AMMAN, Jordan (MNTV) — Iraq is working to establish new medical specialization and training centers across several Arab countries as part of broader efforts to strengthen healthcare education and professional standards in the region, according to Iraqi News.

The initiative was discussed during the second meeting of the Supreme Ministerial Committee of the Arab Board of Health Specializations, held in the Jordanian capital Amman and chaired by Iraq. 

The Arab Board is a regional body responsible for regulating postgraduate medical education and specialist training across the Arab world.

According to information shared following the meeting, Iraq — a founding member of the Arab Board — is playing a leading role in shaping future policies aimed at improving medical education, regulating professional practice, and expanding training opportunities for doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers.

The discussions focused on the Arab Board’s five-year and long-term strategic plans, which include expanding the range of medical specializations offered, opening new accredited training centers in multiple Arab states, and enhancing institutional cooperation among member countries. 

Officials also reviewed proposals for the potential inclusion of additional Arab countries, particularly from North Africa, into the board’s framework.

Iraqi officials emphasized that the expansion of medical specialization centers is intended to address growing healthcare needs across the region while improving access to advanced clinical training. 

The proposed centers would support standardized education and certification, helping to raise the overall quality of medical services in participating countries.

During the meeting, attention was also drawn to the performance of Iraqi medical professionals within the Arab Board system. 

Iraqi doctors were reported to account for around 30% of the top-performing graduates receiving Arab Board certification, a figure cited as evidence of Iraq’s strong medical training base despite years of conflict and resource constraints.

Reference was made to the Arab Migrant Competencies Forum, held several months earlier, where leading Arab Board graduates were recognized. 

Iraqi participants were prominently represented among the highest achievers, highlighting their contribution to regional healthcare systems both within and outside Iraq.

Officials said Iraq’s current leadership role within the Arab Board is expected to further support cooperation in medical education and training across the Arab world. 

The focus, they noted, remains on strengthening clinical skills, improving academic standards, and ensuring that healthcare professionals are equipped to meet regional public health challenges.

The initiative reflects a broader push by Iraq to reassert itself as a key contributor to Arab professional and institutional development, particularly in the health sector, following years of rebuilding efforts.