Moving the Needle on Global Surgery Education in the US

Abstract

Objective: Interest in global surgery continues to increase among students and trainees in the U.S. pursuing fields that provide perioperative care, including surgery, anesthesia, and OB/GYN. While some students and trainees successfully engage in global surgery-related research, advocacy, and clinical work, many individuals face gaps in global surgery education and opportunities. A lack of access to mentorship and resources can limit engagement with the shift from pursuing clinically-oriented experiences, such as short-term trips, to focusing on long-term models emphasizing equity. To address these challenges, motivated students and trainees have formed networks of future global surgery providers.

Design: Within the U.S., the Global Surgery Student Alliance (GSSA) has constructed a network reaching students and trainees at 75 medical schools. GSSA is able to connect American students and trainees with resources and mentors, as well as emphasizing the importance of equitable engagement in the global surgery field. GSSA also serves as the National Working Group for the International Student Surgical Network (InciSioN).

Results: Since launching in January 2017, GSSA has constructed a national leadership team that supports chapters at individual medical schools in addition to hosting nationwide events and producing resources. Using the global surgery education needs identified in the NextGen study, GSSA has authored toolkits aimed at guiding students towards ethical and equitable opportunities to engage in global surgery research, education, and advocacy. GSSA also hosts numerous events to help students prepare for potential careers in global surgery, including annual national symposia and frequent webinars. Additionally, GSSA has created a freely accessible database to connect students with peers and mentors within global surgery worldwide.

Conclusion: Students have created a national organization that connects future perioperative care providers with resources to engage in equitable global surgery advocacy, education, and research. GSSA helps bridge the gaps between interest, opportunity, and equity in global surgery work.

Keywords: global health; global surgery; global surgical education; health equity; medical students; public health; residents.