Radboud University Medical Center in the Global Health Hub
Radboud University Medical Center (Radboudumc) has long been a leader in global health research and education, leveraging its expertise in infectious diseases, health systems, and capacity building to make an impact. Located in Nijmegen, Radboudumc has cultivated partnerships that extend across continents. Its involvement in the Netherlands’ Global Health Hub is a commitment to addressing complex health challenges through collaboration and innovation.
As Heiman Wertheim, a professor at Radboud and the contact in the Hub explains, the university’s work is embedded in global health priorities: “We’ve been involved in programs that address everything from antibiotic resistance to research collaborations in for example Tanzania. Our partnerships with institutions like Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC) in Tanzania are a great example of how we collaborate to improve health systems at every level—from governance to safe oxygen supply for anesthesiology to direct patient care.”
Radboud University and its collaboration with the Hub
The Global Health Hub offers a platform to bring Radboudumc’s expertise into a broader network. Wertheim highlights the importance of alignment and avoiding duplication: “In global health, there are so many initiatives, both nationally and globally, that sometimes you lose track of who is doing what. The Hub helps us harmonize efforts and ensures we’re working together effectively rather than duplicating initiatives.” For Radboudumc, the Hub has already proven to be a valuable space for connection and collaboration. Wertheim: “We’ve been able to strengthen our relationship with organisations like Amref Flying Doctors through the Hub. We’ve also collaborated on initiatives related to antimicrobial resistance, particularly through global platforms like the UN General Assembly.” The Hub also facilitates dialogue between stakeholders, creating opportunities to align strategies. Wertheim believes this is particularly valuable for addressing emerging challenges. “Whether it’s antibiotic resistance or governance issues in health systems, the Hub provides a place to discuss solutions that work both locally and globally.”
Goals for the next years
Wertheim acknowledges that the Hub is still in its early stages and has room to grow. “The Hub has a lot of potential, but to thrive, it needs clear governance and operational structures,” he says. He envisions a more formalized approach to meetings and agenda-setting that could enhance its impact. “A few structured gatherings each year, with clear objectives and contributions from all partners, could strengthen the community and drive action.” Looking ahead, Wertheim sees Radboudumc’s role in the Hub as a way to amplify its global health agenda. “Radboudumc is committed to making a difference in areas like infectious diseases, health system strengthening, and education,” he explains. “The Hub allows us to connect with like-minded organizations and ensure that our efforts are part of a bigger picture.”