The inaugural Moroccan-American Medical Days took place on July 23 and 24 at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy in Laâyoune. This two-day event aimed to enhance the quality of healthcare and medical expertise in the Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra region. The initiative, organized by the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Laâyoune in collaboration with Saint Francis Hospital in New York, sought to strengthen partnerships between Moroccan and American medical institutions.
The conference, which brought together specialists from various medical fields, focused on exchanging knowledge, fostering innovation, and improving healthcare practices. Seven American doctors specializing in endocrinology, nephrology, cardiology, gastroenterology, gynecology-obstetrics, and pediatrics participated in the event, providing local healthcare professionals with insights into the latest medical advancements.
Fatima Zahra El Hafidi, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy in Laâyoune, underscored the significance of such initiatives in strengthening professional ties between Moroccan and American doctors. She highlighted the region’s commitment to becoming a center of medical excellence, citing the presence of highly qualified healthcare professionals and advanced medical research institutions.
A major highlight of the event was the signing of a partnership agreement between Saint Francis Hospital and the regional hospitals of Laâyoune. This agreement, signed by Meyer Abittan, representative of Saint Francis Hospital, and Ali Houari, Regional Director of Health and Social Protection, sets a framework for cooperation in medical education, training, research, and telemedicine. The collaboration aims to enhance the region’s medical capacity through the exchange of best practices and technological advancements.
During the conference, Dr. Jon Batash, Medical Director of Post-Acute Care, delivered a presentation on the multidisciplinary approach to patient care in the U.S. His insights provided Moroccan doctors with valuable perspectives on integrated healthcare systems and patient management strategies.
The closing day of the event was attended by several high-profile dignitaries, including Abdeslam Bekrate, Wali of the Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra region and Governor of Laâyoune province; Sidi Hamdi Ould Errachid, President of the Regional Council; and representatives from Laprophan pharmaceutical laboratory. Also present were consuls general accredited to Laâyoune, further emphasizing the event’s importance in fostering international cooperation in the healthcare sector.
The success of the first Moroccan-American Medical Days sets a precedent for future collaboration, paving the way for ongoing medical exchanges and innovation in Morocco’s healthcare sector.
