Local doctors complete training on wartime surgery

AMMAN –– Forty Jordanian doctors took part in a three-day seminar this week aimed at training participants on aspects related to surgery in time of war.

Organised by the International Committee of the Red Cross, the seminar was held for the third time in the Kingdom, according to ICRC Jordan Spokesperson Hala Shamlawi. 

“Syrian surgeons took part in the past two seminars. This time, the seminar was held only for Jordanian surgeons from the Royal Medical Services (RMS) and the Ministry of Health,” she told The Jordan Times at the conclusion of the training on Tuesday. 

Shamlawi said ICRC experts trained attendees on surgical techniques and medical treatment methods required to deal with Syrians who have been affected by the civil war in their country. 

“The ICRC has vast experience in dealing with war victims since its inception 150 years ago,” the ICRC official added, noting that the agency wanted to share its experience with RMS physicians and surgeons and enhance their skills. 

“We know that the RMS has vast experience in this field.”  

Shamlawi said ICRC experts also acquainted participants with international humanitarian laws, which deal with the effects of armed conflict, to train them on how to reach sick and injured people during wars.

“There are laws that govern the access of the medical staff to victims,” she explained. 

Lt. Col. Hisham Rifai, a member of the RMS, said 30 RMS doctors took part in the event.

He added that the RMS staff provides injured Syrians with medical treatment at the Zaatari Refugee Camp, over 80km northeast of Amman.