Visiting International Fellows
Dr. Siham Azahaf
Amsterdam University Medical Center, Netherlands
In November 2023, I had the privilege of participating as the Inaugural Visiting International Fellow at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, focusing on Academic Emergency Medicine (EM) under the mentorship of IEMF Director Dr. Sagar Galwankar.
This experience provided an invaluable opportunity to engage with the U.S. healthcare system and to broaden my perspective in EM.
The fellowship exposed me to a diverse range of initiatives and academic activities.
I had the opportunity to work alongside the dedicated team at the Sarasota County Fire Department, learning the intricacies of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) under the expert guidance of Dr. Frank Marshall. The shifts in the Emergency Room at Sarasota Memorial Hospital were equally enlightening, where I collaborated with a team of skilled EM physicians, residents, and nurses. Their support and insights were crucial in navigating the complex and dynamic environment of emergency care in the United States.
Observing the operational dynamics of the Trauma and Critical Care Helicopter and the Dispatch Center provided a unique perspective on emergency response mechanisms. Participating in the didactic sessions of the residency program, under the direction of Residency Program Director Professor O’Keefe, enriched my understanding of EM training in the U.S.
The U.S. healthcare system, with its unique challenges and approaches, offered a contrast to my experiences in the Netherlands. This exposure has been enlightening and has significantly broadened my understanding of International healthcare practices.
I am grateful to the entire team at IEMF for their warm welcome and invaluable support during my fellowship. The knowledge and experiences gained have been profound and will undoubtedly influence my ongoing medical journey.