Training is highly structured yet overseas attachments are frequently encouraged although, currently, they are often spent in, or attached to, a teaching hospital. This is entirely appropriate from the perspective of the trainees, but it does little to change the practice of anaesthesia in rural, isolated areas. I would like to challenge the departments of anaesthesia in the UK and elsewhere, and other relevant professional organisations, to promote a partnership between themselves and under-served parts of the world. On the few occasions when I have been fortunate enough to have had a doctor with anaesthetic experience come to work in this hospital, the difference they have made to the quality of the surgical service we could provide was tremendous. Perhaps more importantly, the visiting anaesthetist has been able to ensure our equipment and practices were safe as well as passing on some of their specialist skills to their medical and nursing colleagues.
Many doctors can gain valuable experience by working in rural Africa.
This would ensure that the trainees are not isolated and have ready access to academic support. It would help build up relationships between rural and urban areas and it would contribute considerably to an improved anaesthesia service in those areas where there is the greatest need. If interested please contact me at the above address.