title: A framework for short-term humanitarian health care projects.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  This opinion piece, based on the experiences of the author, outlines the planning involved for a short-term assignment. With growing demand for humanitarian health care assistance to underserved countries, a framework for organizing short-term trips to such areas would be beneficial to the trip organizers.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  The key to a successful project lies in focusing on specific populations and interventions while still in the planning stages. The hurdles that need to be cleared before actually embarking on the project are also discussed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The lasting result of such ventures lies in the learning experiences of the participants, the care that the population receives, and a deeper appreciation for global health and disparity.
authors.affiliation: Clinical Services Manager, Women's Care Center, Bridgeport Hospital, Bridgeport, CT, USA. ndwals@bpthosp.org
authors.forename: D S
authors.initials: DS
authors.lastname: Walsh
mesh_terms: D000533:Altruism; D003659:Decision Making, Organizational; D003906:Developing Countries; D006801:Humans; D007391:International Cooperation; D008493:Medical Missions / Q000458:organization & administration*; D008507:Medically Underserved Area; D010934:Planning Techniques; D012066:Relief Work / Q000458:organization & administration*; D014481:United States