ABSTRACT
The interest in global health activities (GHAs) by medical physicists has increased significantly in recent years. However, most medical physicists have not had any formal education or training related to GHAs. Beginning with a very brief historical overview outlining modern issues related to colonialism, racism, and decolonization, the chapter reviews both obstacles and guidelines for developing global health (GH) programmes. The various options for GHAs for medical physicists are reviewed. Highlights of training for involvement in GHAs relevant for medical physicists are provided based on various reports related to GH medical education programmes. These guidelines include considerations of: (1) personal health, (2) travel safety, (3) cultural awareness, (4) language/communication competencies, and (5) ethical considerations. Finally, recommendations including a set of topics and objectives for education and training of medical physicists for GHAs are presented.
