Helsinki: Sabina Mirzayeva, an Azerbaijani doctor, has achieved her long-held dream of becoming a member of the Finnish Medical Association. Her journey from Azerbaijan to Finland and her accomplishments were recently highlighted in the Finnish medical journal L¤¤k¤rilehti, a publication of the Finnish Medical Association.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Sabina Mirzayeva shared insights into her journey during an interview, discussing her career choice and the transitions she faced while adapting to the Finnish healthcare system. Influenced by her family, Mirzayeva was inspired to pursue a career in medicine from a young age, graduating with honors from Azerbaijan Medical University. She initially worked as an otolaryngologist in Azerbaijan before moving to Finland with her family 12 years ago.

Upon relocating, Mirzayeva faced challenges due to Finnish legislation that initially prevented her from practicing medicine. It was only after amendments to local laws that she was able to pursue her profession in Finland, eventually passing the necessary exams to secure her role as a doctor at a medical center in Lohja. Her membership in the Finnish Medical Association marks a significant milestone, providing her with professional support and guidance.

Mirzayeva noted the differences in healthcare systems between Azerbaijan and Finland, highlighting the flexibility Finnish doctors have in changing specialties and the emphasis on continuous learning. This adaptability offers doctors the freedom to explore various medical fields, broadening their clinical perspectives.

She also observed cultural differences in patient behavior, noting that Finnish patients tend to seek medical advice at the onset of symptoms. In contrast, many Azerbaijanis living abroad prefer consulting doctors in Azerbaijan due to the accessibility and familiarity with the medical environment.

pointed out the growing trend of aesthetic medicine in both countries, with non-surgical procedures gaining popularity in Finland. Her future goals include creating a support network for foreign-born doctors in Finland, helping them navigate professional challenges and furthering her specialization in the Finnish medical landscape.