How to set up your program in international health.

The foregoing delineation on the rationale, structure, and process for development of a program or institute in international health is not meant to be prescriptive. Flexibility, relevance, and sensitivity to the local context-the academic health center setting--are crucial, just as these characteristics are the hallmark of successful international projects. The present era offers significant challenges in improving the health and well-being of the world's population. Fortunately, there is an enlightened climate for the development of innovative and collaborative approaches to meet these challenges within a framework of social justice and overall human development. It is the unique and unparalleled opportunity for US academic health centers to work with international colleagues toward this goal.