International Issues: A guide to US academic global health programs in neurology

Abstract

Global health programs advocate for a better understanding of health disparities, often prompting medical trainees to practice medicine in an international setting. The relevance of global health electives in neurology is highlighted by the increasing burden of neurologic diseases in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), representing 84% of the world's population. 1,2 Cerebrovascular disease is the second leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and dementia, meningitis, migraine, and epilepsy are in the top 50 factors in disability-adjusted life years. Neurologists therefore play a key role in global health, caring for patients with acute neurologic disorders and neurologic sequelae of both noncommunicable and communicable diseases. Despite this, there are only 0.03 to 1.09 neurologists per 100,000 people in LMICs, with large inequalities in access to care, compared to 4.75 per 100,000 population in high-income countries. 3 Through developing collaborative relationships and a cross-cultural exchange of knowledge, US neurology trainees can play a role in addressing these disparities in neurologic care.

Global & Community Health: A perspective on neurologic care at Mulago Hospital in Uganda

“…Recently, a stronger interest has been expressed in global neurology exchange programs, many of these with longstanding exchange partnerships that help foster collaboration and education between the institutions. 8 My Ugandan colleagues taught me how to diagnose infectious diseases underrecognized in the United States without the use of ancillary diagnostic tools, and shared a wealth of knowledge with me. My experience at Mulago Hospital was invaluable as it helped not only to refine my clinical skills as a neurologist, but also helped me to see neurology from a humble perspective.…”

Global Health Education in Child Neurology and Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Training Programs in the United States: A National Survey

“…Within neurology, recent data have provided a broad overview of engagement and opportunities among adult neurology programs in the United States and select individual experiences among trainees. 13 –17 Initiatives to establish interest in global health among members of the Child Neurology Society have been showcased at a recent Child Neurology Society meeting 18 ; however, no comprehensive evaluation of educational opportunities and collaborations in global health has been undertaken thus far.…”