Global Surgery: Thoughts on an Emerging Surgical Subspecialty for Students and Residents

Interest is growing in global health among surgical residents and medical students. This article explores the newly developing concept of “global surgery.” Providing surgical care to resource-limited populations, often found in low- and middle-income countries, has numerous professional and personal developmental benefits. A significant interest is found among most general surgical residents; however, it is necessary to formalize more exchange programs and fellowships like some institutions have done. Medical schools also should establish similar global clinical electives to channel the exuberance of students, develop properly their global health interests, and expose them early to the realities and health needs of the global population. Current opportunities for medical students and residents are reviewed along with the relevant literature.

Key Words: surgery in developing countries, international elective, global surgery, humanitarian aid, surgical speciality

Competency: Patient Care, Medical Knowledge, Professionalism, Interpersonal and Communication Skills