From the fourth course to structure: Safavi Impact Institute expands the “German for Medicine” programme

With the launch of the fourth specialised course in medical German, the Safavi Impact Institute is taking another step in developing its training offer for Ukrainian doctors in Austria. What began as a targeted initiative has now become a structured programme that supports the professional integration of medical professionals in the Austrian healthcare system.

At the same time as this fourth in‑person course in Vienna, the Institute is launching its first online course within the “German for Medicine” programme. The new online format will be available to medical professionals who live outside Vienna and responds to the growing need for flexible yet labour‑market‑oriented learning opportunities.

A core feature of the programme remains work in small groups of a maximum of six to seven participants. This format allows for intensive, interactive and application‑oriented learning, from medical terminology to typical communication situations in everyday clinical practice.

The new in‑person course is led by Christiane Karl, an experienced DaF/DaZ trainer and certified ÖSD examiner with many years of teaching experience and a proven track record in preparing candidates for language exams up to level C1. With this addition, the programme’s expertise is further strengthened and the trainer team expanded.

The results from earlier courses show that the programme is already having an impact. Participants from previous groups have reached level C1 and are now preparing for the Fachsprachprüfung. Many of them are working in practices at the same time and use this experience to consolidate and refine their language skills in real‑world medical settings.

At the same time, they are pursuing the long‑term goal of having their qualifications fully recognised and working in Austria as licensed doctors.

By further expanding the programme, the Safavi Impact Institute supports highly qualified medical professionals on their way back to their profession and contributes to addressing structural challenges in the Austrian healthcare system.