Muslim Doctors and Terrorism Charges

Dear Friends and Colleagues:
The recent terror attacks in Great Britain unleashed a new wave of anti-Muslim sentiments. The fact that medical doctors from the Middles East and India were involved coined a new phrase " Doctors of Terror" and questions the loyalty and reliability of "Muslim Doctors."
A recent article in the New York Times highlights the fact that seven doctors are tied to the terror plots that unfolded in Britain. Furthermore, the US press has reported that at least two of the doctors have inquired about US licensure and residency training programs.
A recent letter to the editor "Doctors of Terror" in an Orlando newspaper was written by an IMG (International Medical Graduate)and ends with the gloomy prediction,
"Sadly, nothing is immune to terror, hate and murder -- not even one of the noblest professions that is dedicated to the welfare and health of mankind."
Right wing bloggers and talk show hosts are whipping up a frenzy to mislead people in believing that Muslim doctors are "Doctors of Terror."
As an International Medical Graduate, Jew and Israeli citizen I am appalled by the frontal assault on my fellow colleagues of the Muslim faith.
Terrorists are motivated by hate and the delusion of grandeur to control other peoples fate and life. Religion is just the cover to vaguely conceal their distorted narcissistic characters and to justify their nihilistic world view.
Even though many terrorists are Muslims, most Muslims are NOT terrorists! Singling out Muslim doctors alienates Muslims instead of recruiting them in our joint struggle to fight terrorism and to build a better world.
Its time for IMGs in organized medicine to speak up against any attempts to stigmatize our fellow Muslim colleagues and to defend their rights.
Join me in this effort!
Bernd Wollschlaeger,MD
Past Chair AMA IMG Section
Chair Florida Medical Association IMG Section