Transition to Practice: A Global Surgery Approach

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Surgical Education
• International Surgery

Background:

• Transition to practice (TTP) programs are crucial for newly qualified surgeons.
• Global surgery settings offer unique training opportunities and address healthcare disparities.
• Limited data exists on the feasibility of TTP experiences in low-resource countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a global surgery setting for a surgical transition to practice.
• To evaluate the impact of such an experience on a recent U.S. general surgery residency graduate.

Main Methods:

• A fellowship program was established at a rural hospital in Malawi, Africa.
• A recent graduate from a U.S. general surgery residency program participated.
• Data on case volume, types of procedures, and skill development were collected.

Main Results:

• The fellow performed 305 surgical cases across various disciplines.
• Significant improvements in operative ability were demonstrated.
• The experience provided essential surgical care to the underserved population.

Conclusions:

• A global surgery approach to transition to practice is feasible and beneficial.
• This model complements domestic surgical training.
• It offers vital support to communities with limited access to surgical expertise.