Global Health 101

Abstract

Global health is an evolving field that has been broadly defined as the promotion of health for all through transnational collaboration and research. It centers on the concepts of equity and collaboration. The focus of global health has recently undergone a major shift toward emphasizing the importance of a systems-based approach to healthcare delivery, which considers not only the target disease but also the many contextual factors, influencing the ability to deliver care equitably to a population to reduce the burden of any particular disease. Thus, an important global health delivery framework has been established to outline this inter- and multi-disciplinary systems-based to address major global health issues and improve health for all globally. The practice of global health, whether in research or in active intervention, necessitates guiding principles to ensure ethical conduct in the transnational partnerships and efforts to advance the field. With the introduction of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals in 2015, there has been a major shift in response to epidemiologic transition to focus on reducing the burden of noncommunicable diseases, including cancer, which disproportionately impact low-to-middle income countries. This is true for colorectal cancer, with care challenged by significant gaps in screening, early detection, and referral systems.

Envisioning Better Healthcare Systems: A Unique and Innovative Journey From Community Hospital to Academic Medical Center

“…The Florida hospital's journey highlights the dedication of healthcare providers and policymakers to create a program that not only meets the rigorous standards of accreditation but also addresses global health issues. By incorporating global health competencies addressed by Welten et al [ 17 ], promoting international collaborations, and providing opportunities for trainees to engage in cross-cultural learning experiences, the hospital's program prepares residents for practice in an increasingly interconnected world, equipping them with the skills necessary to address global health challenges.…”