Experience of doctors from the diaspora contributes to enhancing the quality of medical education and research in the Republic of Moldova

Two representatives of the medical diaspora from Germany paid a working visit to  Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy between January 12-19, 2024, at the invitation of the National Institute for Health and Medical Research within the University.

 Both specialists are graduates of Faculty of Medicine no. 1 of Nicolae Testemitanu University: Alexandru Cebanu - resident doctor in the Pneumology Department of the Helios Clinic in Gifhorn (Lower Saxony), and Marina Florea - resident gastroenterologist in the Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases Clinic, Hannover Medical School.

 The visit began with a constructive meeting with the representatives of the Research Department. Various aspects of the collaboration between Alma Mater and  members of DiaMed platform were addressed. The moderator of the meeting, academician Stanislav Groppa, vice-rector for research activity, mentioned the importance of maintaining a dialogue and strengthening the collaboration in the field of medical research by involving medical professionals from the diaspora. "The direct experience offered by doctors from the diaspora during these sessions contributes to improving the quality of medical training in the Republic of Moldova and strengthening interprofessional connections", added the professor, noting that this activity is an example of knowledge and experience exchange that brings tangible benefits for the evolution of the health system in the Republic of Moldova.

In this context, Alexandru Cebanu stated that it was a pleasure for diaspora doctors to be able to discuss aspects of medicine and research in Romanian: "Despite geographical and environmental differences, there are essential ways to build and strengthen beneficial collaborations in the medical field between professionals from the diaspora and those from the country of origin."

 Also, the two representatives of the medical diaspora had a meeting with the rector of the University, Professor Emil Ceban, in order to discuss collaboration prospects. Subsequently, they delivered two lectures from State of the Art series for teaching staff, students and resident physicians, and organized workshops for resident doctors who are undergoing clinical training, sharing their professional experience and expertise. 

The visit of the specialists was organized  under Involvement of highly qualified medical personnel from the diaspora in the development of the country of origin project. ("DiaMed@USMFNicolaeTestemițanu"). 

The initiative was launched by Nicolae Testemitanu University from the Republic of Moldova with the support of the Policy Advisory Fund project, financed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).