Redefining Medical Excellence: The Visionary Leadership of Professor Youssef Fares at ZHUMC
Redefining Medical Excellence: The Visionary Leadership of Professor Youssef Fares at ZHUMC
Blog Article
In times of crisis, true leaders rise to the occasion—steady, visionary, and unwavering in their dedication. In Lebanon, where the healthcare system is under immense pressure from economic, political, and infrastructural challenges, one such leader stands out: Professor Youssef Fares. As CEO and Chairman of Al-Zahraa Hospital University Medical Center (ZHUMC), Prof. Fares has gone far beyond traditional healthcare leadership. With a career rooted in neurosurgery and academia, his work represents a powerful blend of medical expertise and a deep commitment to education and innovation.
Prof. Fares has been instrumental in transforming ZHUMC into one of Lebanon’s most vital medical institutions. His vision for the hospital isn’t just about providing care—it’s about building a sustainable future for healthcare in Lebanon. By combining advanced medical practices with forward-thinking education and research initiatives, he’s helping shape the future of medicine not only locally, but internationally.
A Journey Rooted in Curiosity and Purpose
Professor Youssef Fares' path into medicine was driven by an early fascination with the human nervous system. “From the moment I began my medical training, I was captivated by the intricate complexity of the nervous system—its neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and the precision required to intervene surgically,” he shares. This deep curiosity led him into the demanding field of neurosurgery, where the opportunity to directly improve lives became his lifelong purpose.
After earning both his MD and PhD in Spain, Prof. Fares continued his training across Europe, expanding his expertise and embracing the highest standards in neurosurgical care. But it was his return to Lebanon that marked a turning point. With a clear goal of improving both clinical services and medical education, he took on influential roles—first as a faculty member, then as Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Lebanese University.
“I’ve worked to elevate Al-Zahraa Hospital into a leading academic medical center where patient care, education, and research converge,” he explains. Under his leadership, ZHUMC established the Neuroscience Research Center (NRC), which has grown into a nationally and internationally respected hub for research and innovation.
Leading Through Crisis with Vision
Lebanon’s ongoing financial and political instability has made healthcare leadership especially challenging. Yet Prof. Fares remains committed to helping ZHUMC not just survive—but thrive. “My primary goal is to ensure the institution’s resilience amid the ongoing challenges facing Lebanon and the region,” he says.
With rising operational costs and shortages in essential supplies, maintaining high standards of care has required strategic thinking and innovation. “We must sustain financial stability without compromising patient care,” he emphasizes.
One of his key strategies is to focus on academic and research opportunities. “A major priority is reversing the brain drain by creating an environment that retains and attracts top medical talent,” he notes. Part of that effort includes embracing cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence to streamline hospital operations, enhance diagnostics, and improve outcomes.
“Enhancing AI literacy among our workforce is central to our efforts. AI will help us make better decisions, manage resources, and improve patient care,” he adds.
Transforming Patient Care Through Innovation
ZHUMC has seen major growth under Prof. Fares’ leadership. The hospital has expanded its critical care capacity by opening a new floor and increasing ICU beds to 45—making it one of the largest in Lebanon. Operating rooms have been renovated with the latest surgical technology, and a helipad was added to ensure rapid access for critical patients across the country.
“Increasing our ICU capacity and building advanced ORs are part of our promise to offer top-tier care, especially for the most complex cases,” he says.
But these efforts aren’t just about infrastructure—they reflect a broader commitment to scientific excellence and patient-centered innovation. That commitment earned the NRC the International World Quality Commitment Award (Gold Category) in 2017, recognizing its role in advancing neuroscience research.
ZHUMC has also launched Centers of Excellence in key specialties like oncology, neurology, urology, and bariatrics. Minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery is now widely available, providing patients with safer procedures and faster recoveries.
Prof. Fares has also elevated ZHUMC’s role as a teaching hospital in collaboration with Lebanese University. Students benefit from real-world clinical experience, research opportunities, and hands-on training from leaders in the field. “We’ve recruited top physicians and surgeons from leading academic institutions,” he notes. “Our tumor boards reflect a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to care.”
ZHUMC regularly hosts medical congresses, workshops, and training sessions, ensuring continuous education for its staff and for the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Facing Lebanon’s Healthcare Challenges Head-On
Lebanon’s healthcare system is navigating a perfect storm: financial instability, fuel shortages, supply scarcities, and a mass copyright of skilled medical professionals. Prof. Fares acknowledges the strain but remains focused on solutions. “The financial strain is especially hard. With many patients unable to pay for care and costs soaring, we’ve had to be strategic,” he explains.
To address these challenges, ZHUMC has prioritized workforce retention, strategic supply management, and a long-term resilience model. “We’ve built a strong supply chain and maintained our staffing to make sure patients continue receiving care—especially during crises,” he adds.
The Future of Healthcare Is Technological
Prof. Fares believes that technology is the key to transforming Lebanon’s healthcare system. “AI is already revolutionizing diagnostics, treatment planning, and hospital operations,” he says. “AI-driven imaging and predictive analytics can dramatically improve outcomes.”
Still, there are hurdles. Inconsistent infrastructure and regulation are slowing progress. “We need national policies that invest in digital health and infrastructure,” he advises. Telehealth, for example, has enormous potential but is held back by limited internet access and reimbursement issues.
Despite these obstacles, he remains hopeful. “Technology has the power to modernize and stabilize our healthcare sector. We just need to support it with the right frameworks.”
Building the Future Through Mentorship
For Prof. Fares, one of the most fulfilling aspects of his career has been mentoring the next generation. “Watching students and young professionals grow into leaders is deeply rewarding,” he shares.
He founded the Lebanese Academy to bring together experts from various disciplines and foster collaboration, innovation, and academic exchange. This initiative reflects his lifelong belief that education, not just infrastructure, will define the future of healthcare in Lebanon.
“I believe that institutions and programs must evolve with each generation. The real success is when they continue to grow and serve long after we’ve moved on,” he reflects.
A Legacy of Excellence and Hope
In both his roles—as a distinguished neurosurgeon and a healthcare executive—Prof. Youssef Fares exemplifies what it means to lead with vision, resilience, and integrity. His leadership at ZHUMC is shaping a stronger, more innovative future for medicine in Lebanon. From patient care to education, from technology integration to mentorship, Prof. Fares is creating a lasting legacy—one built not just on achievement, but on purpose.
Through his tireless efforts, Lebanon’s healthcare system has a guiding light—one that continues to inspire, innovate, and build a better future for all.
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