Promoting synergistic partnerships in low resource countries: a case study exemplar

Abstract

Objectives/aims: The purpose of this discussion is to explore the dynamics of partnership and its impact on both nursing faculty at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy (HueUMP) and Health Volunteers Overseas (HVO) volunteers.

Design: A case study approach was used to promote understanding of partnerships in global health.

Discussion: Collaboration between HueUMP's nursing program and HVO is one of the most dynamic HVO nurse educator programs with five volunteer visits to Vietnam within a two-year period. Volunteer efforts include workshops to meet the diverse needs and interests of nursng faculty. We also emphasize the potential for ongoing strategic program planning integrating components from other nursing partnerships in the Southeast Asian region.

Conclusions/implications for practice: If we are to continue meeting partnership goals, we must recognize that partnerships should evolve according to the goals of HueUMP nursing faculty and the context of nursing in Vietnam.

Keywords: Vietnam; education; faculty; global health; nursing; partnerships; volunteers.