IMP projektredovisning 2017

Background:
The International Medical Program (IMP) in Region Östergötland aims to strengthen healthcare systems in low-resource and crisis-affected countries through long-term collaboration, education, and deployment of specialized medical teams. Activities include clinical support, capacity building, and knowledge exchange across multiple regions including Africa, the Balkans, and Asia.

Objective:
To present and evaluate the activities, collaborations, and outcomes of IMP projects conducted during 2017, focusing on global health development, patient safety, medical education, and healthcare capacity building.

Results:
During 2017, IMP conducted projects in several countries with 65 healthcare professionals participating in 23 missions. The program supported clinical improvements in areas such as maternal and neonatal care, cardiac interventions, vascular surgery, and reconstructive surgery. Key outcomes included improved patient safety practices, development of local competencies, implementation of quality improvement methods (e.g., LEAN, root cause analysis), and strengthened interprofessional teamwork. Research contributions and educational exchanges enhanced knowledge dissemination. Challenges identified included resource limitations, infrastructure gaps, staff turnover, and cultural differences.

Conclusion:
The IMP demonstrates a sustainable and collaborative approach to global health development, emphasizing capacity building, mutual learning, and patient safety. Continued long-term partnerships and adaptive strategies are essential to address systemic challenges and improve healthcare outcomes in resource-limited settings.