At Definition Health, our mission is rooted in transforming healthcare through collaboration and innovation. This commitment extends beyond our digital health solutions into global initiatives that align with our core values. Recently, our Medical Director and Co-Founder, Dr Rosie Scott, participated in an outreach trip to The Gambia with GamMed, the Gambia Medical UK Partnership, and the BFIRST plastic surgery team, making a significant impact on healthcare delivery in one of the world’s most resource-challenged regions.
The challenge in The Gambia
The Gambia, the smallest country in mainland Africa, faces significant healthcare challenges. With fewer than 0.1 physicians per 1,000 people and only 3% of GDP spent on healthcare, resources are stretched thin. Many patients rely on traditional healers due to limited access to medical professionals, often resulting in poor outcomes.
Established in 2018, GamMed addresses these challenges by bringing UK healthcare professionals together to support healthcare in The Gambia through outreach trips, training, and the provision of essential medical equipment.
A week of collaboration and impact
Dr Scott joined a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, anaesthetists, radiologists, physiotherapists, and nurses on this outreach trip. Working alongside local Gambian healthcare professionals and the BFIRST plastic surgery team, the group performed vital procedures and delivered hands-on training across multiple sites, including Banjul and Ndemban. The week was a powerful demonstration of teamwork and dedication:
- Surgeries: Complex cases were tackled across three theatres, addressing a significant patient waiting list.
- Training: Local healthcare workers received practical training in areas such as physiotherapy and basic life support.
- Sustainability: The team’s efforts empowered Gambian professionals to continue improving care long after the trip ended.
Reflecting on her experience, Dr. Scott shared: "It was incredibly inspiring to see the dedication of the local healthcare teams and to work alongside such a passionate group of professionals. This trip was not just about providing care but about empowering Gambian healthcare workers with the skills and resources to make lasting improvements."The outreach team had the opportunity to meet with the British High Commissioner, Harriet King, during their visit. This meeting provided a chance to reflect on the week’s activities and explore how initiatives like GamMed can continue to support and evolve medical practice in The Gambia. Moments like these highlight the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge in driving sustainable improvements in healthcare.
This recent trip builds upon our previous efforts to enhance healthcare in The Gambia. In March 2022, Definition Health partnered with GamMed to deploy our Smart Surgery Solution at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital and five satellite hospitals. This initiative enabled remote care, monitoring, and planning for patients, significantly improving healthcare delivery.
How you can help
GamMed relies on donations to fund these vital outreach trips and to source and ship medical equipment. From theatre tables to imaging machines, every contribution helps improve patient care and training opportunities. To learn more or to donate, visit GamMed's website.
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