UICC World Cancer Congress 2006

Objective:After the breakup of the Soviet Union, the state-run health care system in Georgia was severely damaged due to a national economic collapse. Georgian government has developed plans to increase spending for Oncology services. However, in order for the new physical structure to fulfill its objectives, it must be supplemented with staff trained to provide up-to-date patient care. Emory University, through its well-established Atlanta-Tbilisi Healthcare Partnership, is one of the largest external contributors to advancement of the Healthcare system in Georgia. Representatives from Emory visited Georgia in February, 2005 to evaluate the current status of cancer care.

Methods:Six days were spent reviewing public and private resources in the capital city and environs.

Results:Cancer care has lagged in Georgia. Basic national registry services are in need of significant upgrade, and national education services are necessary. Widespread cancer screening is nonexistent. Significant cancer diagnostic and therapeutic capital equipment is lacking, as is expertise in current cancer best practices. Emory Radiation Oncology has submitted grant proposals for an educational program for Georgian oncology professionals to come to Atlanta and learn current best practices in Radiation Oncology and Medical Physics. This training is centered on a team approach, with subsequent geographic dispersal of cancer treatment services in Georgia.

Conclusion: Substantial reform is required to implement multidisciplinary approaches in the treatment of malignant tumors; to establish treatment guidelines; and to take advantage of advances in medical and information technologies. Significant opportunity exists for NGOs interested in cooperating with Emory Radiation Oncology and the Georgian government.