PROFESSIONCornell launches medical school in the Middle EastOfficials say progress with the school in Qatar is unmarred by terrorism or tensions with Iraq.By Myrle Croasdale, amednews staff. Nov. 25, 2002. Officials from the Weill Medical College of Cornell University in New York say the U.S. war on terrorism and the threat of war with Iraq is not interfering with their plans to offer medical education in the Middle Eastern nation of Qatar. The branch campus welcomed its first class last month. "The [U.S.] war on terrorism hasn't had any impact," said Antonio Gotto, MD, dean of Weill Cornell Medical College in New York. "Presently things are calm. We have 50 faculty and staff there, and their children play out in the compound. It seems to be a safe place." He acknowledged that could quickly change if the United States declares war on Iraq, though Qatar would likely be a U.S. ally if that were to occur. "We're aware of the situation, and I hope it won't interfere with our program," he said. "I know some [students] will want to do exchange programs, and when the time comes for residencies, I don't know how many will want to come to the United States." Getting into the United States for exchanges or residencies could be a challenge if the post-Sept. 11, 2001, increased scrutiny of visas continues. Anecdotal reports of delays and denials signal that getting a visa has indeed become more difficult, though by 2008, when the first class is ready for residencies, the climate may have changed. This year, 27 students started a two-year premedical program at the school. They are slated to enter the four-year medical program in 2004. The class has 14 students from Qatar and 13 from other countries in the region -- 70% of the students are women.
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Copyright 2002 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
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