Internationalization of medical education in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review protocol

This scoping review will systematically map and synthesize the existing literature on the internationalization of medical education within low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Internationalization of medical education is increasingly recognized as a core component of modern medical education, especially in the context of recent global health crises such as COVID-19. Internationalization of medical education is typically implemented through international collaboration, mobility programs, global health content, and international accreditation. Literature indicates that LMICs engage with the internationalization of medical education through student exchange, joint degrees, and curriculum alignment with global standards.

Guided by the population, concept, context (PCC) framework, this review will include literature on tertiary medical education within LMICs (as per the World Bank classification at the time of the search). Included studies must address aspects of internationalization of medical education, such as curriculum internationalization, student and faculty mobility, institutional partnerships, accreditation, or related policies. Peer-reviewed and gray literature in English from 2000 onward will be eligible for inclusion.

A 3-step search strategy will be used to conduct the literature search, which will include an initial search; a comprehensive database search (MEDLINE [PubMed], Scopus, Web of Science, ERIC, Google Scholar, Embase [Ovid] and ScienceDirect); and citation tracking. Dual independent screening (title/abstract followed by full text) will be performed with piloted calibration; disagreements will be resolved by consensus or with a third reviewer. Data will be charted on a standardized, piloted form and synthesized narratively with evidence mapping. No formal critical appraisal is planned, consistent with JBI guidance for scoping reviews.

OSF https://osf.io/n6ftm/overview.