Strengthening Global Partnerships: Advancing Anesthesia Education & Quality Improvement in The Gambia
The University of Utah Department of Anesthesiology continued its long-standing collaboration with healthcare providers in The Gambia through a two-week visit in January, led by Dr. Candace Chang, Director of Global Health, and Dr. Scott Junkins. This visit reinforced the department’s commitment to advancing anesthesia education, fostering quality improvement (QI), and supporting the development of sustainable training programs for Gambian nurse anesthetists.
Expanding Education & Strengthening Collaboration
Building on previous visits and online QI courses conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, this trip focused on helping local providers implement and sustain quality improvement initiatives. Dr. Chang and Dr. Junkins visited four hospitals to assess how M&M (Morbidity and Mortality) conferences, structured QI programs, and clinical protocols were being applied in real-world settings.
Through interviews with practicing nurse anesthetists, they gained valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by Gambian providers. Unlike in the U.S., where concerns about legal consequences and professional repercussions often shape M&M discussions, Gambian anesthetists were more focused on how to structure case presentations effectively and develop actionable solutions. These findings helped tailor the support provided during the visit, ensuring M&M conferences were not only educational but also practical in enhancing patient care.
As part of their ongoing efforts, they taught two-thirds of the QI course in person for AIUWA nurse anesthesia students, expanding the curriculum to include psychiatry and midwifery students. The visit also included a live broadcast of the University of Utah’s department-wide M&M conference, allowing Gambian providers to observe and engage in discussions about QI implementation.
Exploring Research & Future Collaborations
Beyond education, the team initiated discussions on two key areas of collaboration:
- Research: They explored potential research partnerships with Dr. Kebba Kah and Bundung Hospital, identifying opportunities for joint studies that could improve anesthesia practice in The Gambia.
- Educational Partnerships: Conversations with the University of The Gambia laid the groundwork for potential academic collaborations aimed at strengthening anesthesia training programs.
Additionally, recognizing the need for hands-on training, the team visited the simulation center at Université Cheikh Anta Diop in Dakar, Senegal. This visit served as an exploratory step toward establishing a similar medical simulation center in The Gambia, which could significantly enhance training opportunities for anesthesia providers.
Leadership in Global Health
This trip also marked Dr. Candace Chang’s new role as the department’s Director of Global Health, a position that will further strengthen the department’s global initiatives. In this role, she will represent the department on the University of Utah’s Global Health Council, collaborating with leaders across the institution to expand and enhance international partnerships.
With each visit, the foundation for long-term collaboration grows stronger, paving the way for sustainable education, mentorship, and quality improvement initiatives. The department remains committed to empowering Gambian anesthesia providers with the tools and training they need to enhance patient care and strengthen their healthcare system for years to come.