Strengthening Global Partnerships: Advancing a Decade-Long Collaboration with The Gambia

Dec 10, 2024

Strengthening Global Partnerships: Advancing a Decade-Long Collaboration with The Gambia

This fall, the University of Utah’s Department of Anesthesiology embarked on a transformative 13-day visit to The Gambia, continuing its partnership with the American International University of West Africa (AIUWA) Nurse Anesthesia School. Led by faculty members Dr. Scott Junkins, Dr. Candace Chang, and Dr. Aaran Seiler, along with residents Dr. Mary Agarwala, Dr. Flora Liu, Dr. Sierra Mastrantonio, and Dr. Maegan Tupinio, the team worked to advance anesthesia education, foster collaboration, and support local healthcare providers in resource-limited settings.

A group of 10 people in scrubs and caps smiling for a photo in a hallway in a medical facility.

During their visit, the team delivered lectures and workshops on vital topics such as vital signs monitoring, neuroanesthesia, physiologic changes in pregnancy, and difficult airway management. Residents led hands-on teaching sessions while faculty facilitated an intensive, all-day review course for practicing providers. The course utilized the University of Utah Department of Anesthesiology Morbidity and Mortality (M&M) model developed by Dr. Talmage Egan and adapted by Dr. Chang to emphasize systems-based quality improvement, encouraging Gambian providers to explore innovative methods for enhancing patient care.

The trip was not only about teaching but also about mutual learning and understanding. “We are not only there to teach but to learn as much as possible about how they provide healthcare/anesthesia, their challenges, and their goals,” reflected Dr. Sierra Mastrantonio. “This helps us provide input in the most meaningful way possible.”

Dr. Mary Agarwala shared how the experience reshaped her perspective. “I initially thought the lack of supplies would be the biggest hurdle, but I now believe that behaviors, standardization, and habits are actually where the most significant improvements can be made in patient care.”

Just last week, the department welcomed their Gambian liaison, Professor Baro, to Utah, where he shadowed providers and visited the Center for Patient Simulation. Discussions with Professor Baro and Gambian leadership centered on plans to establish a simulation center in The Gambia, which would provide local providers with hands-on opportunities to refine skills and improve patient outcomes.

Supported by the U of U’s Office of Global Health and the Center for Global Surgery, this trip exemplified the department’s dedication to advancing global health and fostering cultural connections. With strengthened bonds and a renewed sense of purpose, the department looks forward to continuing its partnership and returning to The Gambia in the future.

View photos from these impactful visits below!