Annoor
Sanatorium
Jordan, Middle East
Origin Story & Hospital Summary:
Annoor Sanatorium was founded in 1965 by Dr. Eleanor Soltau and nurse Aileen Coleman as a small Christian medical facility dedicated to treating tuberculosis (TB) among the Bedouin people of Jordan. Located in the city of Mafraq, northern Jordan, the sanatorium has expanded over the years to become a key referral center for lung diseases in the Middle East. The name "Annoor" means "the light" in Arabic, reflecting the hospital's mission to bring hope and healing. Mafraq's strategic location at the crossroads of major routes from Jerusalem, Damascus, Tel Aviv, and Baghdad has historical significance, with the area having been used as a military base, including by Lawrence of Arabia. Annoor Sanatorium is a 40-bed facility specializing in treating multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and various respiratory conditions such as asthma, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, bronchiectasis, and congestive heart failure. It also offers pediatric care and serves malnourished children from Saudi Arabia, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. The hospital operates under the guidance of six American and European-trained physicians and provides housing and meals at minimal cost for medical students and residents.
Technology & Capacity:
The sanatorium is equipped with a clinical laboratory, X-ray, ultrasound, and electrocardiogram (ECG) facilities. It follows the World Health Organization’s protocols to ensure high-quality treatment for TB and other chest diseases. Additionally, patients receive education on hygiene and sanitation to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Church and Governance:
Annoor Sanatorium is supported by the Mafraq Sanatorium Association, Inc., embodying its Christian foundation and mission. The hospital emphasizes compassionate care and the holistic development of its patients, reflecting its spiritual commitment.
Training Opportunities:
Medical students and residents have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through daily outpatient clinics, inpatient rounds, and didactic sessions under the supervision of experienced physicians. The hospital encourages participants to raise additional funds to support its operations and engage in its international healthcare mission.
Medical and Support Staff Needs:
Family Medicine
Infectious Diseases
General Medical and Surgical Support Staff
Language:
Arabic is the official language of Jordan, but medical students and residents can work in English, with translation services provided by the hospital staff. Some patients may speak English as well.
Housing & Food:
Housing for visiting students and residents is provided at no charge in the hospital guesthouse, which includes internet access and telephone service. A large meal is offered at noon each day, with additional meals available at minimal cost.
Travel:
Visitors should fly into Amman, Jordan. Arriving during the day is recommended to facilitate coordination with hospital representatives for the two-hour drive to Mafraq. Taxi service from the airport is also available for about $40, and an $8 airport tax is charged when departing Jordan. Travelers should consult the CDC and U.S. State Department websites for health and safety information before traveling.
Time Difference:
Jordan operates on Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC+2, and Eastern European Summer Time (EEST), which is UTC+3 during daylight saving time.
People and Local Religion:
Annoor Sanatorium serves patients from across the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. The majority of the local population is Muslim, with smaller Christian and other religious communities.
Climate:
Jordan experiences hot and dry summers from May to October and mild, rainy winters from November to April. Visitors should be prepared for variable weather conditions.
Unique Challenges:
Common diagnoses include tuberculosis, asthma, lung cancer, COPD, and other chronic chest diseases. The hospital addresses the social stigma of TB through comprehensive care and public health education.
Evangelism Opportunities:
Annoor Sanatorium integrates spiritual care into its services, offering Bible studies, fellowship groups, and church activities. Volunteers and staff have the opportunity to share their faith and provide spiritual support to patients and their families, embodying the light and hope at the heart of the hospital's mission.
For further details, visit the Annoor Sanatorium website.