A framework for short‐term humanitarian health care projects

BACKGROUND: This opinion piece, based on the experiences of the author, outlines the planning involved for a short-term assignment. With growing demand for humanitarian health care assistance to underserved countries, a framework for organizing short-term trips to such areas would be beneficial to the trip organizers. CONTENT: The key to a successful project lies in focusing on specific populations and interventions while still in the planning stages. The hurdles that need to be cleared before actually embarking on the project are also discussed. OUTCOMES: The lasting result of such ventures lies in the learning experiences of the participants, the care that the population receives, and a deeper appreciation for global health and disparity.