CU Anschutz Passport Program Encourages Global Health Engagement
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is known for its cutting-edge research and innovative healthcare practices. But now, the campus is gaining recognition for its commitment to global health engagement through the CU Anschutz Passport Program.
The Passport Program was launched in 2018 with the goal of providing students, faculty, and staff with opportunities to engage in global health initiatives. This can include research projects, internships, volunteer opportunities, or study abroad programs. The program aims to broaden participants’ perspectives on global health issues, foster cultural competence, and encourage collaboration with international partners.
One of the key components of the Passport Program is the Global Health Scholars Track, which allows students to focus on global health issues through coursework, research, and fieldwork. Participants in this track have the opportunity to work on projects related to infectious diseases, maternal and child health, nutrition, mental health, and more. They also have the chance to work with faculty who are experts in their field and have experience working in global health settings.
One student who has benefited from the Passport Program is Sarah Jenkins, a third-year medical student. Through the program, Jenkins had the opportunity to travel to Kenya to work on a research project focused on HIV prevention and treatment. She says that the experience was eye-opening and gave her a better understanding of the challenges faced by individuals living with HIV in resource-limited settings.
“I was able to see firsthand the impact that social determinants of health can have on a person’s ability to access care,” Jenkins says. “It was a humbling experience that has shaped my approach to patient care and advocacy.”
In addition to the Global Health Scholars Track, the Passport Program also offers funding opportunities for students who are interested in pursuing global health projects. This can include research grants, travel grants, and scholarships to support participation in global health conferences or workshops. The program also provides resources and support for students who are interested in finding internships or volunteer opportunities abroad.
Dr. Elizabeth Martinez, the director of the Passport Program, believes that global health engagement is essential for preparing students to be effective healthcare professionals in an increasingly interconnected world.
“Global health is no longer just a niche field – it’s a vital aspect of healthcare that affects us all,” Martinez says. “By exposing students to global health issues and providing them with opportunities to engage in meaningful projects, we are helping to shape the next generation of healthcare leaders who are equipped to address the complex challenges facing our world.”
The Passport Program has also received recognition for its impact beyond the CU Anschutz campus. In 2020, the program was honored with the Outstanding Global Health Program Award by the Consortium of Universities for Global Health. This prestigious award recognizes innovative and effective global health programs that are making a meaningful difference in the field.
Looking ahead, the Passport Program aims to expand its reach and impact by forging new partnerships with organizations and institutions around the world. Dr. Martinez hopes to increase the program’s visibility and attract a diverse group of students who are passionate about global health.
“We want to continue building a community of global health advocates who are dedicated to making a positive impact on health outcomes worldwide,” Martinez says. “Through the Passport Program, we are empowering students to become agents of change and fostering a culture of global citizenship within our campus community.”
As CU Anschutz continues to prioritize global health engagement, the Passport Program remains a valuable resource for students, faculty, and staff who are eager to contribute to the advancement of global health equity and social justice. Whether through research, fieldwork, or advocacy, participants in the program are making a difference and shaping the future of healthcare for generations to come.
