Abstract
We agree with Issa et al. 1 and their policy recommendations regarding reciprocity in international health partnerships, emphasising the importance of involvement of senior staff in partnership visits, clear debriefing for volunteers and simple clear mission statements. Senior staff need to identify the decision makers and engage effectively for a partnership to succeed and evolve positively. Decision-makers may change and it is vital to reengage with their successors.
We always emphasise to all of our staff involved in any project that we work together in an equal partnership in an atmosphere of friendship.
The reciprocity of benefit is not always clear to outsiders. Every year, the Royal College of Physicians organises placements for nearly 250 junior international medical graduates in NHS hospitals. Although these doctors receive similar training to our junior doctors, they undoubtedly provide a much-needed service to our patients. In addition, some also bring ideas that help improve services as they are more used to dealing with larger volumes of work under restricted supporting services such as radiology and pathology. Importantly, they also enrich the medical culture. We always remind their lead institutions how much we appreciate their contribution to our NHS.