Sulaimani Doctor Ranks First in Iraqi Medical Board for Radiology and Ultrasound

A doctor from Sulaimani City has achieved first place in the Iraqi Medical Board’s examinations for radiology and ultrasound specialization, topping candidates nationwide.

Dr. Lanja Dalshad explained that after Sulaimani became a center for the Iraqi Medical Board’s radiology and ultrasound program in 2019, she was one of four doctors from the city—out of 75-80 candidates across Iraq—to pass the rigorous exams and be accepted into the program that year.

Dr. Lanja pursued her medical education in two distinct phases: six years as a medical student and five years as a senior resident. Reflecting on these stages, she noted that the common thread is the necessity of continuous study and effort. The key difference, she emphasized, lies in specialization: “During medical school, you study broadly, but after graduation, you must choose a specialization based on scientific merit, personal aptitude, and expertise in the field.” She also expressed her commitment to advancing her skills in radiation therapy, a cutting-edge global method increasingly used as a non-surgical alternative for treating diseases.

Dr. Lanja attributed her success in ranking first on the Iraqi Medical Board to her foundational education at Sulaimani University’s College of Medicine. She stressed that this achievement is a crucial motivator for her ongoing pursuit of advanced specialization.

Regarding the reaction of her supervisors and professors when she, as a Kurdish woman, secured the top position, Dr. Lanja highlighted the immense support and encouragement she received. She described this backing as pivotal to her perseverance and future aspirations.

On the broader performance of Kurdish doctors, Dr. Lanja pointed out that Kurdish physicians—particularly those from Sulaimani—consistently excel in both Iraqi and Arab medical boards across specialties. She credited this success to the support of the Sulaimani Health Directorate and the unwavering commitment of their professors.