Zubair Qureshi
Zain Abdin, a Chicago-based Pakistani physician and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the American Academy of Research & Academics and Founder & CEO of IMG Helping Hands is trying to make a difference in the lives of international medical graduates (IMGs) through his organization, IMG Helping Hands. Dr Zain’s IMG Helping Hands provides invaluable support and resources to empower IMGs and foster their professional growth and success.
In an exclusive chat with Pakistan Observer, Dr Zain who hails from Toba Tek Singh, said pursuing a medical career in a foreign country posed unique challenges to the international medical graduates.
From licensing examinations to overcoming the cultural and language barriers and limited access to networking and career opportunities, IMGs face numerous obstacles. Recognizing these difficulties, Dr. Zain Abdin founded IMG Helping Hands to address the specific needs of IMGs and offer them essential assistance.
IMG Helping Hands, he said, offered comprehensive support and tailored guidance to the IMGs. The organization trains IMGs and equips them with valuable resources, workshops, and guidance on licensing examinations such as the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). By providing IMGs with the necessary tools and knowledge, IMG Helping Hands increases their chances of success in these critical assessments, he said. Mentorship and networking play vital roles in the professional growth of IMGs, said Dr. Zain Abdin adding that his team facilitated mentorship programmes, connecting IMGs with experienced physicians and professionals who provided guidance, career advice, and valuable networking opportunities. Through these mentorship relationships, IMGs gain invaluable insights and establish connections that support their career advancement.
To a question, he said securing residency positions and respectable job was another milestone to be achieved by the IMGs. Here again, the IMG Helping Hands supports the IMG by providing resources and assistance throughout the residency application process. This includes guidance on preparing application materials and interview preparation. Furthermore, the organization collaborates with hospitals and medical institutions to create job placement opportunities for IMGs, ensuring they have access to meaningful employment in their chosen fields. Thirdly, pursuing medical education was crucial for IMGs to stay updated with advancements in the medical field. The IMG Helping Hands offered a range of programmes and resources to IMGs in their ongoing professional development. These initiatives include seminars, workshops, and online courses that allow IMGs to enhance their medical knowledge and skills. Additionally, Dr. Zain Abdin and IMG Helping Hands advocate for the rights and recognition of IMGs within the medical community, raising awareness about their invaluable contributions to healthcare systems.
The impact of IMG Helping Hands is evident through the numerous success stories of IMGs who have benefited from its programmes and services. The organization has helped many IMGs overcome challenges and achieve their residency and career goals, ultimately improving the quality of healthcare for patients in the United States. Driven by a passion for creating a supportive and inclusive environment, Dr. Zain Abdin has established IMG Helping Hands as a beacon of hope and guidance for IMGs, making a lasting impact on their lives and careers in the medical field.
