1. Improving pediatric cardiac surgical care in developing countries: matching resources to needs.
- Author
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Dearani JA, Neirotti R, Kohnke EJ, Sinha KK, Cabalka AK, Barnes RD, Jacobs JP, Stellin G, Tchervenkov CI, and Cushing JC
- Subjects
- Algorithms, Cardiac Surgical Procedures statistics & numerical data, Child, China, Global Health, Health Services Accessibility, Hospitals, University statistics & numerical data, Humans, Outcome Assessment, Health Care, Patient Care Team organization & administration, Program Development, Quality Assurance, Health Care, Thoracic Surgery organization & administration, Cardiac Surgical Procedures standards, Charities organization & administration, Developing Countries, Health Resources organization & administration, Health Services Needs and Demand organization & administration, Heart Defects, Congenital surgery
- Abstract
This article reviews a systematic approach to the design and support of pediatric cardiac surgery programs in the developing world with the guidance and strategies of Children's HeartLink, an experienced non-government organization for more than 40 years. An algorithm with criteria for the selection of a partner site is outlined. A comprehensive education strategy from the physician to the allied health care provider is the mainstay for successful program development. In a partner program, the road to successful advancement and change depends on many factors, such as government support, hospital administration support, medical staff leadership, and a committed and motivated faculty with requisite skills, incentives, and resources. In addition to these factors, it is essential that the development effort includes considerations of environment (eg, governmental support, regulatory environment, and social structure) and health system (elements related to affordability, access, and awareness of care) that impact success. Partner programs should be willing to initiate a clinical database with the intent to analyze and critique their results to optimize quality assurance and improve outcomes., (Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2010
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