Following the response to the devastating 2004 tsunami, Medical Teams International's (MTI) Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program has worked directly with the Government of Sri Lanka to develop a comprehensive EMS system. In September and October 2008, a delegation of eight Sri Lankan EMS instructors visited Oregon and Washington for advanced instructor training in EMS skills and observation of local and governmental EMS agencies. The delegation participated in > 1,300 hours of combined classroom education and direct provider observation experiences. Following the visit, the delegation was given a 10-question post-event survey to measure their perception of the effectiveness of this type educational exchange.

A Web-based survey tool was utilized to elicit responses from the participants. Questions consisted of open-ended and ranked questions. The survey period was 30 days and there was a 60% response rate.

The participants felt this opportunity was useful and beneficial to the ongoing development of the EMS system in Sri Lanka. Additionally, participants indicated that the classroom experience was the most important aspect of the visit. An unanticipated response was that the participants were impressed with the concept of collaborative teamwork and unity that exists within US fire departments and EMS agencies.

Future exchange programs should focus more on classroom experiences and less on ride-along type experiences. Additionally smaller groups may allow for greater one-on-one peer education opportunities. This exchange provided participants with opportunities that are not currently available in Sri Lanka. The participants in this exchange will utilize the knowledge from this exchange for many years to come.