Otolaryngology in Low-Resource Settings: Practical and Ethical Considerations

Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2018 Jun;51(3):543-554. doi: 10.1016/j.otc.2018.01.003. Epub 2018 Mar 21.

Abstract

Providing otolaryngology care in low-resource settings requires careful preparation to ensure good outcomes. The level of care that can be provided is dictated by available resources and the supplementary equipment, supplies, and personnel brought in. Other challenges include personal health and safety risks as well as cultural and language differences. Studying outcomes will inform future missions. Educating and developing ongoing partnerships with local physicians can lead to sustained improvements in the local health care system.

Keywords: Ethics; Medical missions; Otolaryngology in low-resource settings; Volunteer service.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Developing Countries
  • Global Health / economics*
  • Humans
  • Otolaryngology / economics
  • Otolaryngology / organization & administration*
  • Otorhinolaryngologic Diseases / economics
  • Otorhinolaryngologic Diseases / therapy*
  • Relief Work / economics
  • Relief Work / ethics*
  • Resource Allocation
  • Workforce