ASGE Ambassador Program
The ASGE Ambassador program is a philanthropic initiative designed to export two of the Society’s greatest assests — endoscopic medical care and training expertise — to areas around the world in need of such care. Direct access to GI care does not exist in all developing countries; therefore, educating and training physicians in underserved areas provides an opportunity for ASGE Ambassadors to make a significant impact. ASGE Ambassadors donate their time in order to share knowledge and expertise relating to the practice of gastrointestinal endoscopy and the diagnostic and treatment aspect of managing basic and advanced GI disorders. For more information, view the ASGE Ambassador Program Fact Sheet.
2011 Programs
Cuenca, Ecuador
In November 2011, thirty physicians participated in hands-on training sessions and approximately 55 patients were treated with diagnostic/therapeutic endoscopy procedures during the program. The program focused on upper GI tract malignancies and GI bleeding (variceal and non-variceal).
Solomon Islands
Held in conjunction with the Solomon Island Living Memorial Project in December 2011, twenty physicians participated in a hybrid Ambassador Program consisting of hands-on training sessions on upper and lower endoscopy and proper management of equipment. The training had a significant impact on physicians' understanding of patient care; approximately twenty patients were treated during the program.
2010 Programs
Hue City & Nha Trang, Vietnam
In November 2010, ASGE Ambassadors trained physicians from the north, central and south region during two separate educational conferences.
Cairo, Egypt
Developed in conjunction with the World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO) in February 2010, this was the pilot for the ASGE Ambassador Program. ASGE would like to convey sincere appreciation to WGO for its ongoing support for outstanding education and healthcare.
Press Releases
Upcoming Programs
The next ASGE Ambassador Program will take place in Taipei, Taiwan, February 2012. The six-day training session will provide training in pancreatico-biliary endoscopy (to treat pancreatico-biliary cancers) and diagnostic and therapeutic ERCP. Fifty physicians will participate in the upcoming program. Future programs are currently being planned to take place in other countries; the prospective endoscopic procedures that will be taught are contingent on common areas of need in the recipient nation.