USU Partners PSMU, Russia In Bringing Healthcare Equity to Developing Countries

Pacific State Medical University Healthcare Developing Countries

We’re going to Russia, no luggage required. Thanks to the efforts of our own Dr. Rosalinda Milla, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Professor of Science and Health Sciences, USU is set to provide online courses for Global Health certification to students at Russia’s Pacific State Medical University. Classes will start in January.

It’s all about “healthcare equity.” Dr. Milla has seen for herself the problems that hinder healthcare in developing countries during her time as a physician in the Philippines.

“I believe in health with no borders. What we’re doing in America should be available to underserved people throughout the world,” says Dr. Milla.

With images of an Ebola epidemic in Africa blanketing the evening news, it’s likely that healthcare deficiencies in developing countries have never been more top-of-mind here in the U.S. The goal of USU’s four-course series addresses these kinds of health issues, giving healthcare professionals an understanding of how to bring health care best practices enjoyed in established countries to underserved populations worldwide.

The program has been a year in the making. Dr. Milla developed the curriculum after discussions between USU and PSMU and an agreement was signed in April. Then, in July, she visited PSMU to see the University’s educational system first hand and make sure the partnering universities were on the same page on the details of the certification program.

The Global Health program is designed to give the healthcare students and professionals in Vladivostok, Russia a perspective on the issues related to global health. Students will come away knowing how to promote evidence-based health, how to evaluate health and prevent disease through effective communication, and the ins and outs of collaborating to deliver quality services and healthcare. Hands-on courses will be provided in the field by PSMU faculty and other health professionals.

Dr. Milla is excited about the partnership forged with the medical institution in Russia.

“The new program is in keeping with USU’s mission of serving the underserved. We’re helping health care professionals so they can provide care in developing countries. It’s a good step forward in improving health and achieving equity in health for all people around the world.”