Creation of the AAN Global Health Section, Part I: introduction and background.

The idea of a Global Health Section within the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) came from a group of neurologists with active work in sub-Saharan Africa, who believed that the AAN could provide a greater leadership role in supporting the advancement of quality neurologic training, research, and patient care in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Initially a Special Interest Group, the Global Health Section was approved for full section status in September 2011 and endorsed by the AAN Board of Directors in October 2011. The Global Health Section currently consists of over 200 members. In a 2-part series, we present a summary of the Global Health Section strategic plan and vision for future activities.