President’s Letter-FEB 2025

NAAMA Signs Memorandum of Understanding with Gaza Health Initiative (GHI) to Support Gaza’s Healthcare Recovery

Dear NAAMA Members,

The National Arab American Medical Association (NAAMA) is proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Gaza Health Initiative (GHI), a multinational coalition dedicated to addressing Gaza’s healthcare challenges. Dr. Raed Al-Naser, NAAMA President, on behalf of NAAMA, Dr. Omar Lattouf Chair and Dr. Fawzi Al-Hammouri Executive Chair on behalf go GHI marking a significant step toward collaborative efforts in rebuilding Gaza’s healthcare sector.

This partnership will focus on:

Restoring Gaza’s medical infrastructure and workforce

Joint educational programs, advocacy efforts, and resource mobilization

Promoting transparency and accountability in healthcare recovery

Coordinating efforts to document and communicate Gaza’s medical needs. 

Through this collaboration, NAAMA reaffirms its commitment to humanitarian aid, medical education, and advancing global health initiatives. We look forward to working closely with GHI and other stakeholders to make a meaningful impact.

NAAMA to Co-Host “War and Recovery” Conference at The Carter Center

The National Arab American Medical Association (NAAMA) is pleased to announce a Collaborative Conference Hosting Agreement with Global Health and Relief, Inc. (GHRI) for the upcoming “War and Recovery: Bridging Mental Health, Education, and Reconciliation” Conference on April 13-14, 2025, at The Carter Center in Atlanta, GA.

This important conference will address conflict-driven health crises and recovery strategies, bringing together experts, policymakers, and medical professionals. NAAMA will contribute $10,000 as an educational grant and work alongside GHRI on speaker selection, agenda development, and outreach to medical communities. GHRI will oversee all logistical aspects, fundraising, and financial management. 

By co-hosting this event, NAAMA reaffirms its commitment to advancing global health initiatives, medical education, and humanitarian efforts. Stay tuned for more details on how to participate!

 NAAMA Expands Outreach for Collaboration with Arab American Medical Associations

The National Arab American Medical Association (NAAMA) is actively reaching out to medical associations serving diverse Arab American communities to foster collaboration and strengthen collective impact. Our goal is to enhance medical education, humanitarian efforts, and professional networking by building strategic partnerships with like-minded organizations.

So far, we have had very encouraging discussions with organizations such as the Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS) and the International Lebanese Medical Association-USA (ILMA-USA). These conversations have opened doors for potential joint initiatives, conferences, and advocacy efforts that will benefit Arab American healthcare professionals and the communities they serve. We look forward to expanding these collaborations and welcoming more organizations to work together in advancing our shared mission.

NAAMA Chapters News

Multiple chapters hosted/are planning upcoming events. Visit the Chapter Page on our website to connect with their social media outlets and make sure to follow our Instagram Account and our Facebook Page and Facebook Group Page for the latest news. Also, checkout our YouTube Channel for the latest Women In NAAMA (WIN) episodes.

NAAMA Member Spotlight – Recognizing Our Top Recruiters!

We are excited to introduce the NAAMA Member Spotlight, celebrating those who have helped grow our organization by recruiting new members! Your dedication strengthens our network and expands opportunities for Arab American healthcare professionals.

👏 A big thank you to this month’s top recruiter: Dr. Chadi Calarge. Houston Chapter President. 

Your efforts make a lasting impact, and we encourage all members to continue spreading the word about NAAMA. If you’d like to be featured in our next spotlight, invite colleagues and friends to join!

The NAAMA Website is Now Live with a Fresh New Look! 🌐

We are thrilled to announce that the NAAMA website update is now complete! 🎉 Our new and improved website offers a modern design, user-friendly navigation, and enhanced features to better serve our members and community.

🔹 Easier Membership Management

🔹 Seamless Event Registration

🔹 Updated Resources & News

🔹 More Ways to Connect & Engage Visit us now at https://link.edgepilot.com/s/4098697f/9lzwZM5dCEKjK66vp9ERlw?u=https://naama.com/ and explore all the new updates! Let us know what you think—we’re always working to improve your experience.

Thank you for being part of NAAMA!

Raed Al-Naser, MD, FCCP
NAAMA National President 2025