Epilogue: regional development of travel medicine--the Saudi challenge

To outline a plan for the expansion of travel medicine programmes and discipline in the mid eastern region, a panel of travel medicine experts convened at the First International Conference on Travel Medicine in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to present and discuss the risks, prevention strategies, and treatment methods for the myriad of travel-related health issues. During some formal and informal discussions, suggestions were put forth and strategies outlined on how to expand programmes for travel medicine and promote its discipline in the region. Expanding and/or developing programmes of any nature is not without its challenges. In this light, the cooperation and commitment of the appropriate government sectors and significant others must be established to ensure success.