In a significant step towards enhancing healthcare and medical education in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), Faulty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University (KKU) welcomed a delegation from the University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR, for a two-day collaborative visit focused on Family Medicine. The delegation, led by Dr. Phouvang Sengmuang, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and a distinguished alumnus of KKU’s Faculty of Medicine, was warmly received by Assoc. Prof. Pattarapong Makarawate, Dean of KKU’s Faculty of Medicine, along with other key faculty members.

Dr. Phouvang Sengmuang, who holds a degree in Physiology from Khon Kaen University, returned to her alma mater to further strengthen ties between the two institutions. This visit underscores the ongoing commitment of both universities to advancing medical education and research in Family Medicine, a critical field that addresses the holistic health needs of communities.

Key areas of cooperation include the exchange of third-year Family Medicine residents for two-month training programs, with KKU offering to host 10-11 residents from Lao PDR annually. In addition, KKU expressed its readiness to assist in the development of Family Medicine curricula for both undergraduate and postgraduate medical students in Lao PDR.

Highlighting the strong academic ties between the two institutions, Dr. Vimala Bouphavanh, a current student from Lao PDR, is enrolled in the three-year Advanced Graduate Diploma in Clinical Medical Science, specializing in Family Medicine at KKU. Upon completing her studies, Dr. Vimala will receive dual certification from the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University: the Advanced Graduate Diploma in Clinical Medical Science and the specialized certificates in Community Medicine, Family Medicine, and Occupational Medicine.

The collaboration also extends to offering international programs such as the Master of Health and Medical Sciences and PhD programs, designed to equip medical professionals with the skills necessary to address complex health challenges.

During the visit, fruitful discussions were held on further strengthening strategic collaborations, particularly in clinical rotations, community-based training, and research development. The visit concluded with a tour of the Kum Koon Center and Ubolratana Hospital, where the delegation observed KKU’s innovative approaches to integrating community participation into healthcare delivery and the training of medical students.

Assoc. Prof. Pattarapong Makarawate emphasized, “KKU’s Faculty of Medicine is committed to fostering strong partnerships within the GMS. Our collaboration with the University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR, is a testament to our shared vision of improving healthcare for all communities in the region.”

This partnership highlights the shared dedication of both institutions to advancing Family Medicine education and improving health outcomes across borders, setting a precedent for future collaboration within the GMS.