The Role of Chinese Medical Teams in Bridging Healthcare Gaps in Africa: A Scoping Review
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Background Sub-Saharan Africa has faced profound healthcare challenges, including severe shortages of professionals and infrastructural deficits. Despite significant international aid, the full impact of Chinese Medical Teams (CMTs) in addressing these issues had remained underexplored. This scoping review aimed to synthesise existing literature on the role of CMTs in Africa, identifying key drivers, barriers, and gaps in research that could enhance the effectiveness of these programmes. Methods Utilising the Arksey and O'Malley framework and adhering to the PRISMA-ScR checklist, we conducted a comprehensive search across major English and Chinese databases up to February 2023. We included studies that provided both qualitative and quantitative insights into the effectiveness, modalities, and challenges of CMTs. Data were analysed using thematic analysis, supported by NVivo 11 software. Results Our review included 20 English articles and 27 Chinese articles from 2009 to 2022, highlighting CMTs’ significant role in improving healthcare through direct medical assistance, training of healthcare workers, and infrastructure development. Key drivers of CMT initiatives included diplomatic goals, economic cooperation, and humanitarian efforts. Conversely, operational challenges such as cultural differences, language barriers, and infrastructural inadequacies were prominent. Conclusions CMTs have effectively addressed healthcare disparities in Africa through a distinctive, government-led, and non-conditional programme. Their flexible, long-term engagement has strengthened healthcare systems across underserved regions, offering a programme for sustainable global health aid. However, challenges such as cultural barriers and logistical constraints suggest a need for improved cultural competency and flexible staffing. Further empirical research, particularly involving African researchers, is essential to fully understand CMTs' long-term impact and refine strategies for future international health initiatives that align with local needs.
