Advanced life support in obstetrics (ALSO) international development

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Medical Education
• Global Health

Background:

• The Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics (ALSO) program equips healthcare providers with essential skills for managing obstetric emergencies.
• The program has been implemented globally, with over 18,000 clinicians trained and 1,200 instructors certified outside North America.
• Varied success in program self-sustainability has been observed across international contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key characteristics that contribute to the self-sustainability of international ALSO programs.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for establishing enduring ALSO initiatives worldwide.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive analysis of ALSO program features was conducted across all countries where it has been introduced.
• The study focused on identifying specific attributes associated with programs that achieved self-sustainability.

Main Results:

• Self-sustaining ALSO programs demonstrate robust organizational frameworks.
• Effective implementation involves a train-the-trainer model and fostering collaboration among diverse groups.
• Program success is linked to leveraging international expertise for medical content while balancing customization with core information preservation.

Conclusions:

• When introducing the ALSO program to new regions, adopting strategies that have led to self-sustainability is crucial.
• Implementing strong organizational structures, collaborative efforts, and a train-the-trainer approach can enhance program longevity.