A delegation of 20 physicians and hospital administrators from China journeyed to the United States last month to observe osteopathic physicians and educators training DOs for careers in primary care. Comprised of members of the International Primary Care Educational Alliance, the delegation is working to increase the number of primary care physicians in China, where the health care delivery system is based predominantly on specialty care. 

While visiting the U.S., members of the group met with DOs, osteopathic medical students and educators during visits to the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, the Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-School of Osteopathic Medicine in Stratford, N.J., and Doctors Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. During the visits, osteopathic physicians and educators shared information about curriculum, treatment modalities and residency programs in primary care.

On Aug. 25, members of the delegation traveled to Washington, D.C., where they were welcomed by AOA President-elect Karen J. Nichols, DO. During a banquet, Dr. Nichols thanked the Chinese physicians for their continuing efforts to increase primary care training and offered assistance from the osteopathic medical community as they work to resolve the health care crisis in China.  

Photo: Members of the International Primary Care Educational Alliance, including 20 physicians and hospital administrators from China, gathered on Aug. 25 in Washington D.C., for a banquet and tour of the U.S. Capitol. (Photo courtesy of Lisa Helfert)