History
Our History
History of MEDCAMER: The Association of Doctors of Cameroon
Created in 2010, the Association of Doctors of Cameroon (MEDCAMER) was born with the mission of uniting health professionals around values of solidarity, service and social responsibility, to respond to the country’s public health challenges. By establishing a strong and active organization, MEDCAMER has established itself as a key player in health promotion, support for doctors and awareness of health issues for all Cameroonians.
MEDCAMER Flagship Initiatives and Activities
1. THE MANIFESTO: Diagnosis and Reforms for the Cameroonian Health System
In 2016, MEDCAMER published THE MANIFESTE, a diagnostic plan for the Cameroonian health system based on evidence collected directly in the field. This document comprehensively assesses the inadequacies and gaps in the health system and proposes concrete reforms to address the identified difficulties. THE MANIFESTO proved essential in raising awareness and mobilizing stakeholders, particularly the government, around the need for profound transformations in health policy.
2. The Interdisciplinary and Transversal Health Conference (CITSA)
The Interdisciplinary and Transversal Health Conference (CITSA) is an annual event where health professionals discuss Cameroon’s health challenges and priorities. This meeting helps strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration, share innovative practices, and promote local solutions adapted to public health needs, particularly for non-communicable diseases and emergency care.
3. MedCaravane: Health For All
MedCaravane is a traveling campaign that serves medically under-equipped areas of Cameroon, offering free care and screenings. With teams of volunteer doctors, this initiative has reached thousands of Cameroonians who would otherwise not have access to medical care. In addition to providing care, MedCaravane raises community awareness of prevention practices, thereby strengthening local knowledge of health and hygiene.
4. MEDBLOOD: Blood Donation by Caregivers
In 2016, MEDCAMER launched MEDBLOOD, a blood donation campaign that mobilizes healthcare professionals to meet the need for blood products. By providing an essential supply of blood, this initiative supports hospitals in the care of critical patients and strengthens the connection between caregivers and the community.
5. MEDSUPPORT: Emergency and Disaster Response Plan
MEDSUPPORT is MEDCAMER’s emergency program, activated during major crises. During the Ezeka and Mbankolo disasters, teams of doctors were deployed to provide medical and psychological support to victims. MEDSUPPORT is designed to provide a rapid response to the needs of affected populations, providing essential care and crucial psychological support in times of crisis.
6. MEDACADEMIE: Continuing Training and Certifications
MEDACADEMIE is MEDCAMER’s continuing education program, aimed at strengthening the skills of Cameroonian practitioners through certifications and specialized training. In collaboration with national and international partners, MEDACADEMIE ensures that doctors have access to updated knowledge in essential areas, such as addiction management and mental health, to improve the quality of care.
7. MEDMENTORING: Support for Young Doctors
MEDMENTORING supports young doctors in their career and professional development. This program includes activities such as MedSlide (defense simulations for doctoral students), as well as support in research and projects. MEDMENTORING aims to create a community of competent practitioners and support the next generation of doctors in Cameroon.
8. Community Awareness and Prevention Campaigns
MEDCAMER is also engaged in awareness campaigns on various health issues, ranging from addictions to mental health. Through community workshops and awareness days, MEDCAMER informs the population about prevention practices and encourages them to adopt healthy behaviors.
Social Impact of MEDCAMER
Since its founding, MEDCAMER has had a profound impact on the public health and well-being of Cameroonians. The MEDBLOOD program improved access to blood products, the MedCaravan served medically disadvantaged areas, and MEDSUPPORT provided emergency support to victims of disasters. THE MANIFESTO offered a valuable diagnosis, guiding the necessary reforms in the health sector. The MEDACADEMIE and MEDMENTORING programs allow Cameroonian health professionals to access continuing education and mentoring opportunities, thus contributing to the evolution and excellence of medical practice in the country. Community awareness campaigns demonstrate MEDCAMER’s commitment to improving public health by actively engaging the population in disease prevention and management practices. — MEDCAMER pursues its mission with dynamism and determination, offering a model of solidarity and social commitment in Cameroon. Its actions contribute to building a health system that is more inclusive, more efficient, and better adapted to the needs of all.