August 6, 1999

Six leading cardiologists and cardiac surgeons from North Korea visited the MGH as part of a tour of several major American hospitals July 21, 22 and 23. The trip was organized through the American Friends Service Committee, and Richard Liberthson, MD, of MGH Cardiology, director of the Congenital Heart Program and president of the International Society for Adult Congenital Cardiac Disease, organized the North Korean physicians' tour of the MGH.

The three-day visit consisted of a hospital tour, extensive discussions with cardiologists and cardiac surgeons, and observations in the catheterization, electrophysiology and ultrasound laboratories and the operating rooms. "The most valuable aspect of the visit," says Liberthson, "was that they had the chance to see us as physicians and surgeons in a caring setting for patients. We met with them over a common interest to improve the care of our patients."

Liberthson is excited about the possibility of future interactions. The physicians returned home with textbooks, articles, advanced cardiology equipment and ideas from MGH cardiologists and researchers. "The more you know and understand other physicians and facilities," says Liberthson, "the more likely you will foster closer ties for the benefit of patients."