GI Surgery
Global Surgery Impact Program (GSIP)
Director's Welcome
As Director of the Global Surgery Impact Program (GSIP) at the University of South Florida Department of Surgery, it is my privilege to welcome you to an initiative dedicated to expanding surgical education, advancing global health equity, and strengthening international collaboration. GSIP is more than mission trips, GSIP is about elevating and educating surgeons and healthcare systems, brining what is special about USF's Department of Surgery to areas of the world looking to advance their surgical practice. GSIP was founded with a transformative $1 million grant and is built on a three-pronged mission: facilitating international surgical training experiences for USF residents and faculty; providing specialty education in advanced techniques such as endoscopy, minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic surgery; and hosting international learners at USF for observational training, mentorship, and exposure to high-quality surgical systems. GSIP is equally focused on long-term sustainability through philanthropy, industry collaboration, and the redistribution of unused surgical materials to under-resourced partners worldwide. This program is powered by generosity, and we warmly welcome any support from those who share our mission to elevate global surgical care.
Christopher DuCoin, MD, MPH, FASMBS, FSAGES, FACS
Professor of Surgery
Chief, Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery
Vice Chair, Clinical Operations
USF Health Morsani College of Medicine
Mission Statement
The mission of GSIP is to elevate the international surgical experience in a transformative way by teaching surgeons, advancing technology, and improving patient care through collaborative and sustainable partnerships with regions in need and a desire to engage.
Vision Statement
The vision of GSIP is to transform global surgical care by serving as a catalyst for sustainable, equitable, and worldwide surgical advancement.
Program Objectives
- Enhance Global Surgical Education through international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
- Develop Sustainable Surgical Training Programs in underserved regions.
- Provide Specialty Training in cutting-edge surgical techniques.
- Support International Learners at USF through direct observation opportunities.
- Leverage Industry Partnerships to increase access to advanced surgical tools and equipment.
Program Key Strengths
The strengths of our program are in out world wide relationship through the office of Global Affairs at USF and our local relationships built on surgeons international relationships within the Department of Surgery. Our strength is our difference, in that we don't just go and "do" surgery, we go and "teach" surgery, leading to a sustainable and generational impact.
GSIP Goals
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GSIP will facilitate USF residents and faculty in a meaningful educational experience at international surgical programs. USF residents and faculty will travel to partner institutions to engage in knowledge-sharing, clinical collaboration, and hands-on training. The goals of this prong include:
- Strengthening surgical education at international partner sites.
- Enhancing cultural competency and global awareness among USF trainees.
- Creating a sustainable pipeline of international surgical collaboration.
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USF will provide targeted specialty surgical training to international partners, focusing on advanced techniques such as:
- Endoscopic Surgery
- Endovascular Surgery
- Minimally Invasive & Robotic Surgery
- Trauma & Acute Care Surgery
Through structured workshops, hands-on training, and simulation-based education, GSIP will empower local surgeons with state-of-the-art surgical expertise, improving patient care and clinical outcomes. This aspect of the program will also serve as an opportunity to engage industry partners, as training in specialized techniques can increase the adoption of advanced medical equipment in global markets.
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GSIP will invite international learners to USF for direct observational experiences in surgical procedures, patient care, and hospital operations. This exposure will allow them to:
- Observe advanced surgical techniques and healthcare systems.
- Engage in structured mentorship and networking opportunities.
- Develop strategies to implement improved surgical practices in their home countries.
