When I left Syria in 2014, I had a dream of becoming a U.S.-trained physician. I quickly realized that the American dream is real and that hard work truly pays off. I completed my master’s degree in international health policy and management, along with my clinical training in both internal and vascular medicine, at highly reputable institutions. The U.S. health care system offered me these opportunities, valuing my commitment over my background or religion. Today, as I reflect on this journey and on the monumental changes in Syria, I feel deeply grateful for my mentors and everyone I’ve had the privilege to work with.
I’m also not sure that it could happen today.
Immigrant doctors play a powerful role in sustaining and strengthening our health care system. If the new White House reenacts the travel ban on issuing visas for civilians from certain countries, it could threaten this vital resource, endangering not only immigrant physicians but also the patients who rely on us for care.
In 2017, President Trump signed an executive order banning entry from seven predominantly Muslim countries. It had a material effect on the U.S. medical system.
According to a 2020 study, international medical graduates (IMGs) make up nearly one-quarter of the U.S. physician workforce — a presence essential to filling gaps in care. Of these, 18.4% (around 48,354 doctors) come from Muslim-majority countries, with 38.1% serving in primary care specialties. These professionals provide essential care, often in underserved areas as well as rural areas where the need for doctors is huge. They also contribute significantly to the economy by filling roles that help prevent costly health crises. As a country that has long valued opportunity, America must ensure policies do not inadvertently shut out those who strengthen us.
A clear example of this ban’s impact is seen among Syrian medical graduates. In 2016, Damascus University held the No. 7 spot among institutions with the most medical graduates licensed in the U.S., with 2,745 physicians. By 2017, Syrian graduates achieved an impressive residency match rate of 76.6%. However, following the travel ban, that rate dropped to 64.4% by 2019.
Since the travel ban and subsequent visa restrictions, the flow of talented Syrian doctors to the U.S. has slowed significantly, forcing many to seek opportunities in countries like Germany instead. These young and hardworking physicians have historically played a vital role in advancing knowledge in critical areas of medicine, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and communicable diseases, through post-doctoral research programs in the U.S. Their work has not only saved American lives but also advanced global health, reinforcing America’s role as a leader in medical innovation. For example, the Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS) represents thousands of U.S.-based Syrian physicians who are also recognized globally for their expertise in managing health crises, including establishing field hospitals in conflict areas and delivering life-saving treatments to displaced populations. (I’m a member of SAMS.)
With the recent fall of the Assad regime, Syrian doctors are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between global health challenges and local rebuilding efforts.
Like many other Syrian doctors here in the U.S., I’m so looking forward to putting what I have learned here in the U.S. into action and helping the people of Syria. This includes rebuilding the health system, creating clinical training programs, and expanding on the preventive care. But if the old travel ban is instituted again, many of us Syrian doctors who are on visas or hold green cards may not be allowed to re-enter the U.S. if we leave for a short visit. This wouldn’t serve anyone. The expertise of Syrian physicians trained and practicing in the U.S. can play a dual role — strengthening America’s health care system while contributing to the rebuilding 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 maintaining their roles in American health care.
My story is just one among thousands. Collectively, immigrant doctors support a system increasingly struggling to meet patient needs across the nation. At Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), I conducted research under Jeremy Ruskin, head of the electrophysiology section. Our team consisted of three trainees: an Iranian, an Israeli, and me, a Syrian. Three who would never work together elsewhere. This environment created mutual respect and brought us together, transforming our diverse perspectives into shared value and growth.
As Syrians chart a new future free from dictatorship, the U.S. has an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to inclusive immigration policies that strengthen bonds 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., is an assistant professor and vascular medicine attending in the cardiology division at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.