Development of a Longitudinal Obstetrics and Gynecology Curriculum in Haiti [24B

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Hôpital Universitaire de Mirebalais (HUM) is a tertiary care center and teaching hospital in rural Haiti. EqualHealth (EQ) is a non-governmental organization that coordinates a Visiting Professor (VP) Program that brings physician-educators to Haiti to provide targeted training to health professionals. In 2013, HUM and EQ partnered in order to launch a longitudinal obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) curriculum in response to HUM's desire to strengthen women's health services. METHODS: EQ and HUM OB/GYN identified colposcopy, contraception, electronic fetal monitoring (EFM), and laparoscopy as training priorities. A training framework was created, and learners were evaluated on each topic using a pre- and post-test assessment. Qualitative feedback was collected from all learners, HUM staff, and the VP. Additionally, EQ promotes continued learning by reinforcing previously taught topics during subsequent VP courses. RESULTS: HUM and EQ have partnered on seven courses. The learners' assessment scores in colposcopy improved by 11% (2014); in contraception by 21% (2013) and 10% (2014); in EFM by 35% (2014) and 29% (2015); and in laparoscopy by 29% (2014) and 5% (2015). 360 degree qualitative feedback on course satisfaction has been uniformly positive. Subsequently, intrauterine devices (IUDs) have become part of the standard contraception menu and colposcopy and EFM have been integrated into patient care. The program has also resulted in several abstracts presented at international conferences. CONCLUSION: This educational partnership has improved learners' knowledge and led to expansion of key services for women in Haiti. Further research is needed to assess the impact of this partnership on women's health outcomes.