Global community of practice: A means for capacity and community strengthening for health professionals in low- and middle-income countries

• DOI: 10.7189/jogh.12.04034
• Publication Date: 2022-05-14T10:47:00Z
• Authors: Allison Silverstein; Amy Benson; Catriona Gates; Diane Nguyen
• Keywords: Facilitator; Capacity Building; Global Health

Abstract Background Low- and middle-income countries face distinct challenges in providing health care services training. The community of practice (CoP) has been described as a method facilitating much-needed connections conversations on this topic adapted over time to include virtual CoPs. We describe the development evaluation global Clinical Lead Forum (CLF) using CoP framework structure informal continuing professional (CPD) enhance capacity professionals low- countries. Methods Baylor College Medicine International Pediatric AIDS Initiative (BIPAI) its network affiliated, independent non-governmental organizations (NGOs) provide paediatric maternal for vulnerable populations around world. established sessions across discuss clinical topics, which evolved based need COVID-19 series. collected demographic, participation, participant facilitator assessments, well leadership notes from each session part an educational quality improvement study. developed evaluated program Logic Model used Kirkpatrick assess learning outcomes. Results A total 299 unique participants engaged sessions, representing 10 disciplines. There were 1295 who joined 11 regular CLF series 23 Survey responses overall consistent with value-added intervention. Conclusions CLF, via both series, served impactful CPD. By focusing creating safe inviting space, ensuring equity inclusion, activating champions, fostering engagement, promoting innovation adaptability, decreased isolation, strengthened peer relationships, enhanced knowledge practices professionals. Our model may be scaled other systems world bridge divides create similarly meaningful communities.