ABSTRACT
Global health encompasses health equity at home and abroad and it is common for students and others to seek experiences internationally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. A goal of global health is to provide resources and expertise that can help underserved and under-resourced populations to access greater well-being and productivity. Without recognition of local institutions already working to advance healthier livelihoods, international support can be disruptive and lead to sidelining of local capacity, which disempowers the exact settings outsiders aim to help. This chapter provides a case study that suggests questions for one to ask, as well as pre-departure tips to promote fruitful global health engagement. A number of recommendations exist for medical trainees to help them frame 'success' in terms of understanding and uniting pre-existing resources and building local capacity to sustain a thriving health system in the long term.
