Journal of Isfahan Medical School

Journal of Isfahan Medical School

The Imperative of Re-examining and Leveraging the Medical Heritage of Iran and Islam in Modern Medical Education.

Document Type : Letter to Editor

Authors
Mahmood Ayuobi
Vahid Abedinpoor
Department of Islamic Education, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
10.48305/jims.v44.i875.1521
Abstract
Background: The aim of this paper is to draw the attention of the scientific community and medical education policymakers to the critical importance of integrating the rich topics of the history, culture, and civilization of Iranian and Islamic medicine into the curriculum of medical schools. The current situation, limited to a brief general course, prevents students from comprehensively grasping the scientific roots of their profession and leveraging the invaluable experiences of past scholars to address contemporary health challenges.
Methods: The approach of this paper is an analytical-inferential method based on evaluating the existing educational gaps in the current curricula. This analysis is conducted by referencing prior research on the significance of medical history and by examining the fundamental capacities of prominent scientific centers such as Jundishapur, along with the unique innovations of figures like Rhazes and Avicenna.
Findings: The research findings emphasize that the lack of systematic education in medical heritage leads to superficial insights among students, the weakening of their cultural-scientific identity, and ultimately, a reduction in the creativity needed for innovations rooted in indigenous knowledge—despite the vast capacities inherent in this heritage. The purposeful inclusion of this heritage in courses yields multifaceted benefits, including identity reinforcement, a deeper understanding of medical fundamentals, and the cultivation of holistic and ethical physicians.
Conclusion: Focusing on the medical heritage of Iran and Islam is not merely an identity-based action but a strategic imperative to guarantee the quality of education and scientific leadership in the nation’s health sector. Therefore, it is proposed that policymakers and relevant educational bodies seriously commit to implementing the necessary structural changes in the curricula so that this scientific treasure transforms into an innovative platform and a driving force for the development of modern medical knowledge in future generations.

Highlights

Mahmood Ayuobi: Google Scholar

Vahid Abedinpoor: Google Scholar

Keywords
Heritage
Medical Education
Medical history
Identity
Innovation
Subjects
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Journal of Isfahan Medical School
Volume 44, Issue 875
2nd Week,October
September and October 2026
Pages 1521-1525

  • Receive Date 16 September 2025
  • Revise Date 05 November 2025
  • Accept Date 27 June 2026