What are the different countries good at?

[Simon Coles <simon@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi,

I've been thinking - it is obvious to me that the different countries
around the world all bring something special to the world of PD. This is
probably because of their different circumstances and cultures, as well as
the various pockets of expertise that get built up.

Those working with PD in various countries rarely have time to look with a
global perspective and see how they can work with their various colleagues
abroad.

This mailing list has the potential to change that - I hope. With this
list, we do have the chance to have a truly global perspective.

So my question: what expertise/experience do you think your country (or
somewhere else) has which it can share with the rest of the world?

Some examples off the top of my head, forgive me if I get this wrong, and
sorry if I only know two countries :-)

The US seems to be advanced in:
        - surgical treatment
        - political activism (the Udall bill) which also means you've spent a
          lot of time looking at the real costs of PD

The UK has knowledge of:
        - drug treatment of PD
        - PD villages, respite care, etc.

Europe, with the EPDA, is beginning to understand how to form coalitions of
national PD groups.

I am sure there are other areas - organising people, education,
advertising, fundraising etc. For example, in a poor country they might an
expert in treating PD with the minimum of resources, achieving dramatic
results with everyday tools.

Any thoughts? If you reply directly to me at simon@xxxxxxxxxx I will
summarise for the list, unless you want to make a point which you think
would be of general interest.

We're all in this together, and the first step to helping each other is
finding out what we have to share.



Simon

--------- My opinions are my own, NIP's opinions are theirs ----------
Simon J. Coles                                 Email: simon@xxxxxxxxxx
New Information Paradigms                  Work Phone: +44 1344 778783
                     Work Fax:   +44 1344 772510
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