University cooperation in the field of humanitarian medicine combines academic expertise with development initiatives. The UniCamillus Task Force (UTF) was established in 2019 to propose new models in training students from developing countries, promoting self-sufficient health systems through medical interventions, education and capacity building. The 5 years experience regions such as the Amazon, Cameroon and The Gambia, using assessments, stakeholder collaboration, training and long-term monitoring was used to create an innovative model. Data was collected through field reports, interviews and impact assessments. In five years, was trained over 130 health workers, established telemedicine centres and improved medical access for underserved populations. The missions have provided over 4,000 consultations, and ensured continuity of health facilities after surgery. Discussion: Integrating university cooperation with development programmes promotes sustainable health autonomy. By addressing the challenges of humanitarian medicine - lack of coordination, inadequate follow-up and inadequate technology – working with an innovative model strengthens health systems in the target regions. The innovative model of university cooperation exemplifies university-led humanitarian medicine, fusing research, education and service. Future efforts will improve digital health solutions, expand research collaborations and strengthen institutional networks for lasting impact.

An Innovative Model of University Cooperation in Developing Countries: Results of 5 Years of Experience in Internal Medicine, Health Promotion and Education

Kopsaj, Vera;Padua, Donatella
2025-01-01

Abstract

University cooperation in the field of humanitarian medicine combines academic expertise with development initiatives. The UniCamillus Task Force (UTF) was established in 2019 to propose new models in training students from developing countries, promoting self-sufficient health systems through medical interventions, education and capacity building. The 5 years experience regions such as the Amazon, Cameroon and The Gambia, using assessments, stakeholder collaboration, training and long-term monitoring was used to create an innovative model. Data was collected through field reports, interviews and impact assessments. In five years, was trained over 130 health workers, established telemedicine centres and improved medical access for underserved populations. The missions have provided over 4,000 consultations, and ensured continuity of health facilities after surgery. Discussion: Integrating university cooperation with development programmes promotes sustainable health autonomy. By addressing the challenges of humanitarian medicine - lack of coordination, inadequate follow-up and inadequate technology – working with an innovative model strengthens health systems in the target regions. The innovative model of university cooperation exemplifies university-led humanitarian medicine, fusing research, education and service. Future efforts will improve digital health solutions, expand research collaborations and strengthen institutional networks for lasting impact.
2025
Humanitarian medicine, university cooperation, capacity building, sustainable health care, global health.
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14245/11674
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