When I departed Syria in 2014, my aspiration was to become a U.S.-trained physician. The American dream soon became a reality for me, showcasing that diligence and perseverance do pay off. I successfully obtained my master’s degree in international health policy and management, coupled with clinical training in internal and vascular medicine, from esteemed institutions. The U.S. health care system provided me with invaluable opportunities, recognizing my dedication over my background or faith. As I look back on my journey and the monumental transformations in Syria, I am profoundly thankful for my mentors and everyone who has supported me along the way.
However, I harbor doubts whether such a journey could unfold in the present circumstances. Immigrant physicians play a crucial role in upholding and enhancing our health care system. If the new administration were to reimpose a travel ban on issuing visas to individuals from specific countries, it could jeopardize this essential resource, endangering not only immigrant doctors but also the patients who depend on us for medical care.
In 2017, President Trump enacted an executive order prohibiting entry from seven predominantly Muslim countries, significantly impacting the U.S. medical system. According to a 2020 study, international medical graduates (IMGs) constitute nearly a quarter of the U.S. physician workforce, filling crucial gaps in care. Among these, 18.4% (approximately 48,354 doctors) originate from Muslim-majority nations, with 38.1% specializing in primary care fields. These professionals deliver essential services, often in underserved and rural areas where the demand for medical professionals is substantial. Additionally, they contribute significantly to the economy by assuming roles that help prevent costly health crises. As a nation that has historically valued opportunity, America must ensure that its policies do not unintentionally exclude those who bolster our health care system.
A poignant illustration of the ban’s repercussions can be observed with Syrian medical graduates. In 2016, Damascus University ranked seventh among institutions with the highest number of medical graduates licensed in the U.S., totaling 2,745 physicians. By 2017, Syrian graduates achieved an impressive residency match rate of 76.6%. However, following the travel ban, this rate declined to 64.4% by 2019.
Since the implementation of the travel ban and subsequent visa restrictions, the influx of talented Syrian doctors to the U.S. has significantly slowed, prompting many to seek opportunities in countries like Germany instead. These diligent and young physicians have traditionally played a pivotal role in advancing knowledge in critical medical areas, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and communicable diseases, through post-doctoral research programs in the U.S. Their contributions have not only saved American lives but also propelled global health forward, underscoring America’s position as a frontrunner in medical innovation. For instance, the Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS) represents thousands of Syrian physicians based in the U.S. who are globally recognized for their expertise in managing health crises, including establishing field hospitals in conflict zones and administering life-saving treatments to displaced populations.
With the recent downfall of the Assad regime, Syrian doctors are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between global health challenges and local reconstruction efforts. Like many other Syrian doctors in the U.S., I eagerly anticipate applying the knowledge I have acquired here to assist the people of Syria. This includes revitalizing the health care system, establishing clinical training programs, and expanding preventive care. However, if the former travel ban is reinstated, numerous Syrian doctors on visas or holding green cards may be barred from re-entering the U.S. after a brief departure. This scenario would not benefit anyone. The expertise of Syrian physicians trained and practicing in the U.S. can serve a dual purpose—enhancing America’s health care system while contributing to the reconstruction of a free and thriving Syria.
U.S. immigration policies should not only continue to welcome Syrian physicians but also facilitate pathways for them to contribute to Syria’s recovery while upholding their roles in American health care.
My personal experience is just one of many. Collectively, immigrant doctors bolster a system that is increasingly struggling to meet patient needs nationwide. At Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), I engaged in research under Jeremy Ruskin, head of the electrophysiology section. Our team comprised three trainees: an Iranian, an Israeli, and myself, a Syrian—individuals who may never have collaborated elsewhere. This environment fostered mutual respect, uniting us and transforming our diverse perspectives into shared value and growth.
As Syrians envision a new future liberated from dictatorship, the U.S. has an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to inclusive immigration policies that reinforce connections between nations. By empowering immigrant doctors, America can continue to lead in health care innovation while supporting global stability and peace.
M. Ihsan Kaadan, M.D., M.S., currently serves as an assistant professor and vascular medicine attending in the cardiology division at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.
