In today’s interconnected world, global health initiatives are essential in addressing medical challenges and ensuring equitable healthcare access for all. As we observe World Health Day, we are reminded that improving health outcomes requires a collective effort that transcends borders.
A key component of this mission is education—preparing future healthcare professionals to meet the evolving medical needs of diverse communities. St. George’s University School of Medicine (SOM) plays a vital role in this effort by equipping medical students with the skills and experience needed to make a meaningful impact in global healthcare.
A Global Network of Healthcare Leaders
With over 23,000 graduates worldwide, SGU alumni are making an impact on global health through their work in medicine, public health, and research.* These professionals working in a variety of fields form a vast network dedicated to improving patients’ lives. Some of these fields include emergency medicine, primary care, and public health.
Darren Cuthbert, MD, MPH, a 2016 SGU graduate, is channeling his expertise into humanitarian efforts as the founder of Emergency Project. The non-governmental organization delivers life-saving care, empowers local providers, and enhances medical services in regions facing the greatest health inequities. The organization accomplishes this through strategic partnerships and the advanced tools of modern emergency medicine, according to Emergency Project.
Dr. Cuthbert’s work has taken him to flood relief efforts in Pakistan, refugee camps in Jordan, civilian evacuations in Ukraine, humanitarian missions in Zimbabwe, and trauma care assistance in the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
“SGU’s MPH program opened the door of opportunity for me. One of the things I love about medicine today is the increased emphasis placed on evidence-based medicine—public health is the backbone to this practice. Not only does having an MPH make you stick out as a leader amongst your peers, but it broadens your horizon of the world and medicine—eventually creating a better doctor and scientist,” Dr. Cuthbert shares.
Beyond clinical practice, many SGU alumni contribute to strengthening health systems, training healthcare providers, and influencing policies that support health equity. Their efforts align with global initiatives to expand access to quality healthcare across diverse communities.
Orapeleng Phuswane-Katse, MD, MPH, a 2011 SOM graduate, is using her expertise to shape public health policies and enhance strategy planning for better health outcomes in Botswana. Her work involves analyzing healthcare challenges in the country, designing evidence-based solutions, and collaborating with stakeholders to implement strategies that improve healthcare there on a national scale. Through her leadership, she is actively enhancing disease prevention programs, optimizing healthcare resources, and strengthening healthcare frameworks to create lasting improvements in Botswana’s public health.
“We should all strive for an inclusive healthcare system, which is a system that reaches everyone regardless of their socioeconomic status or distance from healthcare facilities. One of the ways I am working towards an inclusive health system is by bringing mobile healthcare outreach to rural communities,” Dr. Phuswane-Katse shares.
The Power of an MD/MPH: Bridging Medicine and Public Health
A strong foundation in public health is essential for addressing complex healthcare challenges on both a local and global scale. SGU is committed to this mission through its MD/MPH dual degree program, which empowers future physicians with the knowledge and skills to integrate clinical care with population health strategies.
SGU MD/MPH dual degree offers students a unique perspective on integrating medical care at both a universal and a patient level. The program provides expertise in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and environmental health, equipping students to:
- Earn MD and MPH degrees in tandem,
- Apply biological and microbiological concepts to public health,
- Address ethical and social issues in healthcare,
- Use evidence-based medicine to shape public health policies, and
- Understand the link between nutrition, physical activity, and public health.
“I believe completing the MD/MPH dual degree program gave me an edge with residency programs simply by having an additional degree,” explains Alicia Persaud, MD, MPH ‘20, family medicine physician in Ontario, Canada. “It was reflective of my commitment to medicine and healthcare in general. Completing my MPH in Grenada gave me a unique insight into the global public health sector and also gave me crucial research experience. I was able to apply both degrees to my research projects during residency.”
This interdisciplinary approach helps prepare future doctors to tackle pressing global health issues, from emerging infectious diseases to managing chronic conditions in underserved communities. Students are able to apply classroom knowledge to real-world public health challenges, allowing them to develop and implement effective health interventions across diverse settings.
The Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine at SGU recently celebrated 25 years of offering a Master of Public Health program and contributing to the development of a skilled global public health workforce.
“For the past 25 years, SGU’s Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine has been at the forefront of promoting public health through education and practice,” says Dr. Kerry Mitchell, assistant dean of students and chair of the department. “In Grenada, the region, and even beyond, our students and faculty have tirelessly worked to raise awareness and address the social and environmental determinants impacting the health of our communities.”
A Diverse, International Campus Driving Global Health Solutions
SGU’s multicultural student body and faculty promotes a global perspective in medical education, creating a learning environment that mirrors the diversity of the healthcare landscape. This diversity enhances collaborative learning, enabling students to develop cross-cultural competencies essential for addressing global health challenges.
“A diverse academic setting helps students to understand the interconnectedness of healthcare systems and prepares them for global healthcare challenges such as pandemics and climate change” says Dr. Arlette Herry, assistant dean of multicultural affairs at SGU. “Students can build a network of peers, which can lead to future collaborations in research, clinical work, and public health initiatives on a global scale.”
Beyond the classroom, SGU’s has affiliations with 75+ hospitals and health systems in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom providing students with international clinical training opportunities. These experiences prepare them to adapt to various healthcare settings, equipping them with the knowledge and cultural awareness needed to succeed in the ever-evolving global healthcare sector.
SGU’s Role in Shaping the Future of World Health
As the world continues to grapple with complex healthcare challenges, the need for well-trained, internationally focused healthcare professionals has never been greater. SGU remains committed to preparing its students to contribute to global health initiatives.
Prospective students interested in medicine, including public health, can explore SGU’s Doctor of Medicine program to build a meaningful career in healthcare.
*Based on the number of students who have completed the Doctor of Medicine program from 1981-2024.
