International Perspectives on General Internal Medicine

Excerpt

This inaugural theme issue of JGIM on International Perspectives on General Internal Medicine features a collection of empirical papers from across the globe. In spite of the heterogeneity of nations represented, these papers share a remarkably consistent focus— examining innovative strategies to ensure that patients have access to medical care and related supports that they need to manage their health. The research was conducted in countries that differ markedly in terms of resources and health care infrastructure—from high-income countries with universal health care coverage to a country with a per capita annual income of less than $1500. Despite these differences, the strategies discussed in these studies push the boundaries of how to improve access to medical care, particularly for vulnerable patients. …