Unifying a fragmented effort: a qualitative framework for improving international surgical teaching collaborations

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Surgical Education
• International Collaboration

Background:

• Global surgical care access is limited, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• International surgical teaching collaborations (ISTCs) are vital educational partnerships between high-income and LMIC surgical teams.
• Improving ISTC quality is essential to address global surgical needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a framework for unifying and systematizing international surgical teaching collaborations (ISTCs).
• To enhance the quality and effectiveness of ISTCs in addressing global surgical disparities.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative methodology utilizing interviews with 68 participants involved in ISTCs.
• Data collected over two months via in-person, phone, or Skype interviews.
• Thematic content analysis applied to interview data.

Main Results:

• A need for a centralized process with leadership and a universal data bank for ISTCs.
• Participants highlighted the importance of communication, administrative support, dedicated funding, and a scholarly approach.
• Increased use of technology and more research on needs and outcomes were identified as key areas for improvement.

Conclusions:

• Unifying and systematizing ISTCs can significantly improve their quality.
• Enhanced ISTCs can advance global efforts to increase access to surgical care worldwide.