Islamic Medical Association

Islamic Medical Association

Introduction

The Islamic Medical Association (IMA) was established in 1967 through the efforts of the Muslim Student Association (MSA) in the United States. The primary purpose of forming the IMA was to create a space for Muslim health professionals where they could meet, collaborate, share information, and offer philanthropic services to their community.

Etymology and Translations

• Arabic: الجمعية الطبية الإسلامية (Al-Jam’iyya al-Tībiyya al-Islamiyya)
• Turkish: İslami Tıp Derneği

Mission and Activities

Mission: The IMA seeks to integrate Islamic values and principles with contemporary medical practices to ensure the holistic well-being of individuals and communities.

Activities:

1. Annual Conferences: The IMA organizes annual conferences to provide a platform for networking, continuing medical education, and addressing medical and ethical issues from an Islamic perspective.
2. Publications: They sponsor annual publications of medical research, guidelines, and opinions that align with Islamic ethics.
3. Community Services: Various programs are undertaken to provide free medical care, health education, and support in underserved communities.
4. Research and Innovation: Promoting research that bridges the gap between Islamic teachings and modern medical practices.

History and Development

The IMA began as an initiative by eager Muslim medical students who recognized the need for communal support and professional unity. Over the decades, it has grown into a significant organization with members across North America and beyond.

Core Values

1. Ethical Integrity: Adhering to the rich traditions of Islamic ethics in all professional interactions.
2. Community Service: Prioritizing the well-being of the community, especially the marginalized and underserved.
3. Knowledge Exchange: Fostering a culture of continuous learning and sharing knowledge to improve health outcomes.

Further Reading and Studies

• Books:
  • “Medicine and the Ethics of Care” by Abdulaziz Sachedina
  • “Health and Medicine in the Islamic Tradition” by Fazlur Rahman
  • “Islamic Perspectives on the Principles of Biomedical Ethics” by Mohammad Ali Shomali

Takeaways

The IMA not only provides a professional collective for Muslim healthcare workers but also ensures that medical practice aligns with the broader ethical and moral values of Islam. Through its various programs, the IMA aims to enrich both the professional lives of its members and the health of the larger community.

Conclusion

The Islamic Medical Association, since its inception in 1967, has played a critical role in bridging the gap between Islamic ethics and modern medical practice. It continues to be a vital organization by encouraging the exchange of knowledge and providing essential services to the community.

This extended entry elaborates on the purpose, mission, activities, and historical development of the Islamic Medical Association, offering a comprehensive understanding of its role and influence.