Another view of “humanitarian ventures” and “fistula tourism”

There are many ethical issues involved in medical missions to developing countries. The Current Opinion/Update “Humanitarian ventures or ‘fistula tourism?’: the ethical perils of pelvic surgery in the developing world” raised many concerns about surgical trips to treat obstetric fistula. Despite a lack of experience with obstetric fistula, western surgeons may still bring surgical and public health techniques that may be of value to health systems in developing countries. Emphasis should be placed on program development and assessment first. This should include not only surgical training but also help with counseling, prevention and reintegration. Participation in clinical trials should be up to the health care personnel in the country being helped, and aide should not depend on such participation. Success will likely be determined by a national effort and integration into existing health systems, not isolated “fistula champions.” The appalling situation of obstetric fistula in the twenty-first century should be a wake-up call to obstetricians/gynecologists and urologists. The dictum “first do no harm” must not evolve into “first do nothing.”