Model for an International Case Sharing Program to Enhance Global Palliative Care Education

Abstract

Context

In Thailand, the field of palliative medicine is growing but access and training remain limited. We sought to expand education of resident physicians at Chiang Mai University (CMU) in Thailand through development of an international case sharing program.

Objectives

The goals of this project were to increase knowledge of core palliative care topics, to cultivate a culture of reflective clinical practice, and to create a model for collaboration in international palliative care education that can be replicated by other institutions.

Methods

We used a virtual case conference platform, in which two Family Medicine residents from CMU selected a challenging palliative care case. They prepared the case using an outline that included reflections on ethics, compassion and social responsibility. The residents presented the case in English to palliative care faculty from Thailand and Minnesota. Each case was followed by unstructured discussion.

Results

Over the course of 5.5 years (Nov 2018–Mar 2024), 14 cases were presented. Each case discussion included at least 3 to 7 core palliative care topics. The program was adopted as one of the core activities of the Department of Family Medicine at CMU and led to clinical practice changes.

Conclusion

We present a sustainable, convenient, low-cost, cross-cultural palliative care case conference model that has the potential to enrich palliative care education globally.