“People who can dedicate themselves to the well-being of others do not exist only in fairy tales—they are among us” - this phrase comes from the journal of a student participating in the third season of the photo project “6 Days of Country Doctor.” The student spent a week on an expedition with peers in the regions of Lechkhumi and Svaneti.

This year, the Tbilisi Medical Academy (TMA) transdisciplinary photo project expanded to cover two more regions of Northern Georgia: Lechkhumi and Svaneti. Five TMA students traveled to Mestia, Chuberi, Becho, Usakhelo, Tskhumari, and Gvirishi, documenting the lives of country doctors through photography. They also shared the emotions and stories that the camera could not fully capture through written and audio recordings.

The multimedia-format exhibition was hosted at the TMA's exhibition space. The event also featured the launch of the Journal “Country Doctor,” in which students share the stories of country doctors working in Lechkhumi and Svaneti.

The aim of the project is to raise awareness about the doctors serving in highland regions and to foster medical professionalism among students while highlighting the role, dedication, and significance of country doctors, and to inspire young physicians to work in remote mountainous villages.

To date, the project has spanned three seasons, four regions of Georgia, and involved 17 students. The first season took place in the highland villages of Adjara: Skhalta, Ghorjomi, and Khulo. The second season was held in Guria, where six students introduced country doctors from Chkhakoura, Kvabgha, Zemo Surebi, Sachamiaseri, and Vanzomleti to the public through photos and stories. The third and final stage covered Lechkhumi and Svaneti.

Importantly, the project is ongoing. TMA continues to collaborate with country doctors in various ways. Last year, the Academy organized a skin cancer screening campaign in Adjara, in partnership with local physicians. TMA also provides online English language courses for the participating doctors. Additionally, the Academy plans to renovate one of the outpatient clinics in the Guria region and strengthen professional ties between urban and country doctors.

With its transdisciplinary approach and focus on societal well-being, “Six Days of Country Doctor” aligns with the mission of TMA and serves as a successful example of institutional social responsibility.