Sidra Medicine debuts Medical Observership Program for healthcare workforce development

QATAR — Sidra Medicine, a member of the Qatar Foundation, is strengthening its commitment to healthcare workforce development through the launch of a new Medical Observership Program and the continued expansion of its Future Doctor Program.

 The two initiatives are designed to create educational pathways for aspiring healthcare professionals, medical students, and experienced practitioners seeking to broaden their knowledge and skills.

Prof. Ibrahim Janahi, Chief Medical Officer and Chair of Medical Education at Sidra Medicine, said education remains a core pillar of the institution’s mission and an essential investment in the future of healthcare.

He noted that providing meaningful learning opportunities allows students, trainees, and healthcare professionals to gain practical insights from experienced clinicians and multidisciplinary teams.

According to him, these experiences help participants develop the skills, confidence, and knowledge required to address the evolving healthcare needs of communities across the region.

New Medical Observership Program opens doors for healthcare professionals

The newly launched Medical Observership Program offers structured observational learning opportunities within one of the region’s leading tertiary academic medical centers.

The initiative is open to physicians, specialists, residents, fellows, medical students, nurses, allied health professionals, academic visitors, and selected high school students.

International applicants may also be considered, subject to institutional requirements and approvals.

Dr. Murtada Hammad, Director of Medical Education Operations at Sidra Medicine, said the program gives participants valuable exposure to specialized healthcare delivery in a world-class academic environment.

Through supervised observation, participants can learn how multidisciplinary teams collaborate, gain insight into patient safety practices, and understand modern clinical and operational workflows.

The observerships are strictly educational and do not involve direct patient care or participation in clinical procedures.

Available placements may include Pediatrics, Pediatric Subspecialties, Women’s Services, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Neonatology, Surgery, and various diagnostic and support departments, depending on availability and institutional approval.

Future doctor program inspires the next generation

Alongside the observership initiative, Sidra Medicine continues to grow its Future Doctor Program, which aims to inspire secondary school students interested in careers in medicine and healthcare.

Held at the hospital’s advanced Simulation Center, the five-day program provides students aged 15 to 18 with hands-on exposure to healthcare careers through simulation-based learning, mentorship sessions, clinical department visits, and interactive educational activities.

Participants receive training in first aid, emergency response, and Basic Life Support while also gaining insight into patient care and healthcare delivery.

Students can earn American Heart Association-accredited certifications, adding practical value to their learning experience.

Since its introduction, the program has helped dozens of students explore healthcare careers and make informed decisions about their academic futures.

The first session of 2026 has already concluded, with three additional sessions scheduled for later this year.

Dr. Hammad said early exposure to healthcare settings can significantly influence career choices by helping students understand the realities of medical practice and the dedication required to work in the sector.

Broader investments in healthcare education and innovation

The launch of the Medical Observership Program comes as Sidra Medicine continues to expand its role in medical education, research, and innovation.

Earlier this year, the hospital announced new family-centered healthcare initiatives, including home-based maternal and newborn care services and expanded neonatal care capabilities.

It also introduced Qatar’s first advanced gene-editing therapy for sickle cell disease and thalassemia and unveiled plans to enhance pediatric rehabilitation services through a new sensory integration gym.

In addition, Sidra Medicine recently achieved HIMSS DIAM Stage 6 validation, becoming the only healthcare organization in the Middle East and Europe to reach that level of digital imaging maturity, further reinforcing its position as a leader in healthcare innovation and medical excellence.

Through these educational initiatives, Sidra Medicine is creating opportunities for learners at every stage of their professional journey while supporting the development of a highly skilled healthcare workforce in Qatar and the wider region.