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. 2014 Feb;104 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):S159-65.
doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2013.301581. Epub 2013 Dec 19.

The public health impact of training physicians to become obstetricians and gynecologists in Ghana

Frank W J Anderson  1 , Samuel A Obed, Erika L Boothman, Henry Opare-Ado
Affiliations

The public health impact of training physicians to become obstetricians and gynecologists in Ghana

Frank W J Anderson et al. Am J Public Health. 2014 Feb.

Abstract

Objectives: We assessed the public health effect of creating and sustaining obstetrics and gynecology postgraduate training in Ghana, established in 1989 to reverse low repatriation of physicians trained abroad.

Methods: All 85 certified graduates of 2 Ghanaian university-based postgraduate training programs from program initiation in 1989 through June 2010 were identified and eligible for this study. Of these, 7 were unable to be contacted, inaccessible, declined participation, or deceased.

Results: Of the graduates, 83 provide clinical services in Ghana and work in 33 sites in 8 of 10 regions; 15% were the first obstetrician and gynecologist at their facility, 25% hold clinical leadership positions, 50% practice in teaching hospitals, and 14% serve as academic faculty.

Conclusions: Creating capacity for university-based postgraduate training in obstetrics and gynecology is effective and sustainable for a comprehensive global approach to reduce maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Policies to support training and research capacity in obstetrics and gynecology are an integral part of a long-term national plan for maternal health.

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Figures

FIGURE 1—
FIGURE 1—
Cumulative number of retained obstetrics and gynecology specialists (OB/GYNS) in Ghana, grouped by first qualification. Note. GCPS = Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons; WACS = West African College of Surgeons.
FIGURE 2—
FIGURE 2—
Geographic location of the 33 primary work places of graduates of in-country university-based obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) training programs: Ghana, August 2010.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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