Assessing Surgical Capacity in Guam: Current Strengths and Future Goals

Area of Science:

• Surgical Systems Research
• Health Equity
• Pacific Island Health

Background:

• Guam is a key surgical care provider for Micronesia.
• Surgical systems research is lacking in Guam.
• The territory serves indigenous communities and Pacific Island nations.

Purpose of the Study:

• Assess surgical capacity in Guam.
• Identify challenges and opportunities in surgical care.
• Inform strategies for system improvement.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods study combining quantitative and qualitative data.
• Quantitative data: operating volume, personnel, infrastructure, services.
• Qualitative data: interviews with hospital leadership and surgical providers.

Main Results:

• Limited advanced subspecialty and oncologic surgical care available.
• Challenges include resource limitations, aging facilities, and subspecialty recruitment.
• Medical transfers are frequent due to limited operable cases.

Conclusions:

• Investment in infrastructure and workforce training is crucial.
• Strengthening surgical capacity improves oncologic care and health equity.
• Regional policy development is needed to support surgical services.