Advancing cardiovascular imaging in Iraq: infrastructure, gender diversity, and future perspectives

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular imaging
• Cardiology
• Medical education

Background:

• Cardiovascular imaging (CVI) is crucial for diagnosing and managing cardiac conditions.
• Iraq faces challenges in CVI, including workforce shortages and limited infrastructure.
• Advanced CVI technologies improve diagnostic accuracy and patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the establishment and impact of Iraq's national CVI fellowship program.
• To highlight the program's focus on diversity (gender and geographic) to address workforce gaps.
• To assess the program's role in advancing equitable cardiovascular care in resource-limited settings.

Main Methods:

• Establishment of a nationally accredited CVI fellowship program in Iraq in 2019.
• Integration of gender and geographic diversity in the fellowship's training framework.
• Analysis of participation trends and healthcare access across governorates.

Main Results:

• The program achieved high female participation in CVI, exceeding other cardiology subspecialties.
• Geographic diversity expanded CVI expertise across Iraqi governorates, improving healthcare equity.
• The initiative demonstrated a successful framework for policy, training, and workforce planning.

Conclusions:

• Iraq's CVI fellowship program effectively addresses workforce limitations and promotes gender equity.
• Continued investment in infrastructure and international collaboration is vital for sustained progress.
• The program serves as a model for advancing cardiovascular care in resource-limited regions.