Coinciding with the National Forum for the First Line of Defense, the first national specialized program to develop surgeons' skills in 'Emergency Management and Disaster Preparedness' was launched. This initiative, the first of its kind in the country and one of the leading specialized programs regionally and globally outside the United States, comes within the framework of the national 'Readiness' system. Following the great success of the first operational phase, which included training hundreds of surgeons and consultants across all emirates within a comprehensive system covering the government, private, and military sectors. Additionally, an elite group from the First Line of Defense was honored with the 'UAE First Line of Defense Award' and the 'UAE First Line of Defense Medal' for their exceptional efforts and dedication to protecting the community and enhancing readiness and response during emergencies, crises, and disasters, as well as their pivotal role in supporting the national system and fostering a team spirit culture in all circumstances. Dr. Adel Al Ajami, Emirati cardiothoracic surgeon and CEO of the 'Readiness' system, emphasized that surgeons are the cornerstone in managing critical injuries and major accidents, and that qualifying them to lead medical response in emergencies and disasters has become a national and strategic necessity. He added that the program aims to create a qualitative transformation in the role of surgeons, from clinical service providers to field and strategic leaders in crisis and disaster management, through a unified, nationally accredited, and internationally recognized training methodology that combines scientific knowledge, practical application, and realistic field training. Professor Roberto Miggavero, President of the European Surgical Council, confirmed that this initiative is an advanced and innovative global model for preparing surgeons to lead medical response in emergencies and disasters.
