How to Work as a Pharmacist in Syria: Full Guide for Domestic and International Graduates

Syria, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, is also recognized for its resilient healthcare system amidst ongoing challenges. The country's healthcare sector offers a unique blend of opportunities for pharmacists, both domestic and international. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview for pharmacists looking to practice in Syria, detailing the steps to obtain a license, the job market, average salaries, cost of living, and more.

Overview of Syria's Healthcare System and Opportunities for Pharmacists

Characteristic and Special Features of Syria

Syria, located in the heart of the Middle East, is renowned for its ancient cities, vibrant culture, and historical significance. Despite recent conflicts, the country is working towards rebuilding its infrastructure, including the healthcare sector. Major cities like Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, and Latakia are central to Syria's healthcare services, housing numerous hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.

Syria's Healthcare System

Syria's healthcare system comprises public and private sectors. The Ministry of Health oversees public healthcare, providing services through government hospitals and primary healthcare centers. The private sector, which includes private hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, plays a significant role in delivering healthcare services. Opportunities for pharmacists exist in both sectors, with a growing demand for skilled professionals to address the healthcare needs of the population.

Obtaining a License to Practice Pharmacy in Syria

Licensing Requirements for Domestic Pharmacists

Domestic pharmacists in Syria typically follow a structured educational and licensing pathway:

1. Education: Complete a Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy from an accredited university in Syria.
2. Internship: Undertake a mandatory internship at a recognized hospital or pharmacy.
3. National Exam: Pass the Syrian National Pharmacy Exam, which assesses knowledge and competency in pharmaceutical sciences.
4. Registration: Register with the Syrian Pharmacists Syndicate, which involves submitting academic credentials, proof of internship completion, and passing the national exam.

Licensing Requirements for International Pharmacists

For international pharmacists, the process involves several additional steps:

1. Credential Evaluation: Obtain an evaluation of your academic credentials from the Ministry of Higher Education in Syria. This ensures that your qualifications meet Syrian standards.
2. Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in Arabic, as it is the primary language of communication in Syria's healthcare system.
3. National Exam: Pass the Syrian National Pharmacy Exam. This may require additional preparation to familiarize yourself with local regulations and practices.
4. Practical Training: Complete a period of supervised practical training at a recognized institution in Syria.
5. Registration: Register with the Syrian Pharmacists Syndicate upon fulfilling the above requirements.

Detailed Steps to Obtain a License

1. Credential Evaluation: Submit your academic transcripts and degree certificates to the Ministry of Higher Education. The evaluation process may take a few weeks to months.
   • Website: http://mohe.gov.sy/
2. Language Proficiency: Enroll in an Arabic language course if necessary. Some institutions offer specialized courses for healthcare professionals.
   • Resources: Al-Baath University offers Arabic language programs for foreigners.
3. National Exam Preparation: Study resources include textbooks on Syrian pharmaceutical law, clinical guidelines, and past exam papers.
   • Recommended Books: "Syrian National Pharmacy Exam Study Guide" by local authors.
   • Online Resources: Pharmacy-specific forums and study groups on social media platforms.
4. National Exam: The exam covers pharmaceutical sciences, clinical pharmacy, and local regulations. It is held twice a year at designated centers.
   • Exam Fee: Approximately $200.
   • Pass Rate: Varies annually, but typically around 70%.
5. Practical Training: Complete a six-month supervised training program at an approved hospital or pharmacy.
   • Training Institutions: Al-Assad University Hospital, Tishreen University Hospital.
6. Registration with the Syndicate: Submit your credentials, proof of passing the exam, and practical training completion to the Syrian Pharmacists Syndicate.
   • Registration Fee: Approximately $150.
   • Website: http://pharmacistsyndicate.sy/

Finding a Pharmacy Job in Syria

Job Market Overview

The job market for pharmacists in Syria is diverse, with opportunities in hospitals, community pharmacies, pharmaceutical companies, and academic institutions. The demand for pharmacists is driven by the need to rebuild the healthcare system and provide essential services to the population.

Steps to Secure a Job

1. Networking: Connect with local pharmacists, attend professional events, and join online forums and social media groups related to pharmacy in Syria.
2. Job Portals: Utilize job portals and recruitment agencies that specialize in healthcare positions in Syria.
   • Recommended Job Portals:
     • http://job.sy/
     • http://en.jobs-net.sy/
3. Direct Applications: Apply directly to hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Major hospitals in cities like Damascus and Aleppo often have dedicated recruitment sections on their websites.
   • Example: Al-Mouwasat University Hospital in Damascus.
4. Professional Associations: Leverage the Syrian Pharmacists Syndicate for job listings and networking opportunities.

Types of Pharmacy Jobs

1. Clinical Pharmacy: Involves working in hospitals and providing medication therapy management, patient counseling, and clinical consultations.
2. Community Pharmacy: Focuses on dispensing medications, advising patients, and managing pharmacy operations.
3. Industrial Pharmacy: Opportunities in pharmaceutical manufacturing, quality control, and research and development.
4. Academic and Research: Teaching positions at universities and research roles in academic institutions.

Average Salaries and Cost of Living

1. Average Salaries: The average salary for a pharmacist in Syria ranges from $500 to $1,000 per month, depending on experience and the sector of employment. Pharmacists in private hospitals and international organizations may earn higher salaries.
2. Cost of Living: The cost of living in Syria varies by city. Damascus, as the capital, has a higher cost of living compared to other cities. Monthly expenses for a single person average around $300 to $500, including rent, utilities, and food.

Life in Syria for Pharmacists

1. Living Conditions: Major cities like Damascus, Aleppo, and Latakia offer a blend of modern and traditional lifestyles. Despite the challenges, the community spirit and resilience are strong.
2. Diversity: Syria is a diverse country with various ethnic and religious communities coexisting. The culture is rich, with numerous historical sites, markets, and festivals.
3. Big Cities and Famous Hospitals:
   • Damascus: Al-Assad University Hospital, Al-Mouwasat University Hospital.
   • Aleppo: Al-Razi Hospital, Ibn Khaldoun Hospital.
   • Homs: Al-Watani Hospital.
   • Latakia: Tishreen University Hospital.

Visa, Residency, and Nationality for Foreign Pharmacists

1. Visa Application: Foreign pharmacists must apply for a work visa to practice in Syria.
   • Application Process: Submit your employment offer, proof of qualifications, and other required documents to the Syrian consulate in your home country.
   • Processing Time: Approximately 4-6 weeks.
   • Website: http://mofaex.gov.sy/
2. Residency Permit: Upon arrival in Syria, apply for a residency permit through the Ministry of Interior.
   • Required Documents: Passport, work visa, employment contract, proof of address.
   • Website: http://moi.gov.sy/
3. Path to Nationality: Long-term residents may apply for Syrian nationality after fulfilling specific residency requirements and demonstrating integration into Syrian society.

Public and Private Healthcare Systems

1. Public Healthcare: Managed by the Ministry of Health, providing essential services through government hospitals and primary healthcare centers. Public healthcare is accessible to all residents, with services often subsidized or free.
2. Private Healthcare: Includes private hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Private healthcare offers higher quality services and shorter waiting times, albeit at a higher cost.

Additional Resources and Links

• Ministry of Health: http://moh.gov.sy/
• Syrian Pharmacists Syndicate: http://pharmacistsyndicate.sy/
• Ministry of Higher Education: http://mohe.gov.sy/
• Syrian Immigration and Passport Directorate: http://moi.gov.sy/
• Job Portals:
  • http://job.sy/
  • http://en.jobs-net.sy/