Core competencies for health professionals in global health

Introduction The world is becoming increasingly globalised and this has a major impact on the delivery of healthcare. Issues such as conflict, migration, climate change and technological advances all contribute to this. But are we equipped to deal with the challenges of Global Health? Objectives To discuss the core competencies that health professionals should have in Global Health. Methods The UK's Global Health Curriculum Group (GHCG), a group of healthcare professionals, was commissioned by the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges to lead a consultation on global health competencies. The consultation took the form of a modified Policy Delphi which involved an online survey and face-to-face and telephone interviews over three rounds. Over 250 stakeholders participated, including doctors, other health professionals, policymakers and members of the public from all continents of the world. Results This study demonstrated broad agreement that global health competence is essential for postgraduate doctors and other health professionals. It identified five core competencies, relevant to the UK and applicable to other parts of the world: (1) diversity, human rights and ethics; (2) environmental, social and economic determinants of health; (3) global epidemiology; (4) global health governance; and (5) health systems and health professionals. Conclusions This framework of five core competencies aims to equip psychiatrists and other doctors with the skills, knowledge and attitudes necessary to practice in a globalised world.