This year, the Open Medical Community Kyrgyzstan (OMC) celebrates the 30th anniversary of OMI in Kyrgyzstan. The collaboration between Kyrgyz physicians and the OMI started in January 1996 when two doctors from Kyrgyzstan attended the Neurology and Neuroscience course. In total, 375 Kyrgyz fellows have attended OMI courses over the years, many of whom now hold leadership positions in their institutions.
The first event to kick off the celebration series took place from May 7 to 8, 2026, in the bustling city of Osh. A master class on “Maternal and Child Health” was held for 102 physicians from various specialties, ranging from obstetricians and gynecologists to neonatologists, pediatricians, and family doctors.
The fellows primarily stemmed from the southern region of the country: 53 participants were from Osh family medicine centers, general practice centers, and private hospitals, 33 were from Osh State University, nine came from Bishkek, three were from Kadamdzhai, and one fellow each arrived from Jalalabad, Batken, Karasuu, Kyzyl-Kiya, and, last but not least, Aidarken.
The master class was led by eight OMI fellows from Bishkek and Osh, who held captivating lectures that covered a broad range of topics. The talks focused on women’s health preservation and promotion, genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), and women’s sexual health, specifically modern non-hormonal and hormonal treatment options, postpartum hemorrhage, European consensus on respiratory distress syndrome, pediatric neurology, and atopic march in children. A round table session encouraged lively discussions and knowledge exchange amongst participants.
The interactive format and interesting topics proved highly relevant and in demand among the practicing physicians. Despite the official May holidays, the event attracted a significant number of attendees.
Following the master class, a fellows’ reunion was held for 25 OMI alumni, who enthusiastically reminisced about their time in Salzburg, shared personal stories, and exchanged medical expertise on various subjects of interest. Further celebratory and educational events have been planned at multiple institutions across the country.
We would like to extend our special thanks to our committed local coordinator, Dr. Lola Asanalieva, for organizing such a successful symposium! Dr. Asanalieva has been diligently working to support OMI fellows and alumni alike, promote the OMI program, and improve the healthcare system in Kyrgyzstan.
Click here to access more photos of the event!