

Global Health Reflections
Journal of the Global Health Academy
Written by Thanushiya Jeyakanthan
PGY3 Resident, Internal Medicine, Norwalk hospital

I cannot begin to describe how beautiful Zimbabwe is, from its red soil to big canopying trees, absolutely a marvel with so much of its nature intact. As I am ending my 6 weeks rotation here, I cannot believe how fast time flew by and all the new things I learned from being here for such a short time. From topics ranging from the practice of medicine to the economy, I listened to conversations, and viewed with my own eyes, and experienced situations that have all combined to create a wonderful learning opportunity for me. I feel so fortunate to have experienced Zimbabwe’s rich history, culture, kind people, and breathtaking landmarks.
It is truly unfortunate that the country’s political upheavals and economic crises over the past decades have negatively impacted its health care system. Citizens of Zimbabwe have been battling HIV/AIDS, cancers, and many other acute and chronic illnesses without much aid for testing and treatment from their government. The financial burden associated with health care often falls on patients and their family members thus prohibiting people from seeking care and getting treated appropriately to reduce morbidity and mortality.
While it is true that the country’s hospitals are lacking resources, it is remarkable to witness firsthand the resilience and versatility of Zimbabwean healthcare providers. I was in awe watching Zimbabwean doctors diagnose diseases using physical exam findings and limited access to x-rays, CT scans or MRIs. I have personally taken for granted how relatively easy it is to practice as a physician in a country with numerous resources. Experiencing the practice of medicine in Zimbabwe has taught me to really appreciate what I have access to and to keep in mind cost-effective patient care regardless of the available resources.
Overall, I had a wonderful time in Zimbabwe and I was truly able to immerse myself in a wonderful global health experience. I can confidently say that this experience has taught me so many lessons that I will be able to carry with me and utilize throughout my career. I feel fortunate and grateful for having received this opportunity.
Written by Lois Rotuno, RUSM, MS4
Vietnam, Cho Ray Hospital Pre-Departure Reflection

Although I had many months to mentally prepare for my travels to Vietnam, it was just an “idea.” It wasn’t really anything more than that. I had no issue eagerly telling friends and family “I’m going to Vietnam!” I said it so much that it began to roll off my tongue, almost losing meaning. Everyone reacted with awe and surprise, so impressed with the idea that I could do such a thing and say it so casually. I loved sharing the news, excited but nonchalant. I completed all the pre-departure orientation requirements, visited my doctors and got my appropriate vaccinations, and began writing a packing list. However, it wasn’t until just a few days prior to departure, when I began packing my suitcases, that it hit me: I’m going to Vietnam!
As someone with an intense fear of flying, I wondered if it was too late to back out.
I began thinking of all the things that could go wrong, all the unknowns, the feeling of being unprepared weighing on my shoulders. I seemed to be just going through the motions as I checked in for the flight, got a ride to the airport, and printed my boarding pass. It felt like an out of body experience.
This couldn’t be real. Was I really doing this? Was I going to be okay? Can I handle this? The anxiety I felt was overbearing. But as soon as I met with my peers at the airport, I began to feel the tension settle. We all were nervous, but we weren’t alone. We were in this together. I firmly believe that the only way you can grow is by challenging yourself, doing things that make you uncomfortable, and trying things you’ve never done before. Despite all my worries, I knew this experience was about to change me, and I took a few deep breaths as I boarded the plane, knowing that when I returned home in 6 weeks, I would be a changed person.

Written by Tariq Ali Islam, RUSM, MS4
Vietnam
Post Elective Reflection

It has been exactly one week since my last day in Ho Chi Minh City, and I am in a state of introspection that I never expected. I consider myself a seasoned traveler, but I am genuinely surprised at how hard it has been for me to reintegrate back into the lifestyle that I once knew. Even though I am happy to be back to see my family and friends, I cannot help but shake this dejected feeling. How was I so stressed out and unhappy with so much? How are people back home so frustrated when they have so much compared to Vietnam? How did I change so drastically in just six weeks?
In Ho Chi Minh City, it is commonplace for many folks to have only one meal or not even eat a single meal in a day, but seeing the smiles on the faces of the locals despite such hardship was genuinely heartwarming. Furthermore, the locals in Ho Chi Minh City have a generally higher baseline standard of health compared to Americans in comparable cities.
I think about the lifestyle in the US that is centered around cars, food, and comfort. In Ho Chi Minh City, it was rare for individuals to walk less than five kilometers per day, in addition to any physical activity they would perform, whether by choice or for work. This difference, not to mention the nutritious diet filled with leafy greens and lean meats, is no wonder the general population does not struggle with obesity, heart disease, and other common morbidities seen in the US. Having spent a few weeks in Ho Chi Minh City, I returned to the US significantly healthier, having noticed a 10 lbs weight loss and a general improvement in my cardiovascular health.
When I see so many of my friends and family struggle with day-to-day problems here at home, I feel humbled and grateful that these are the problems we deal with. They stand in stark contrast to the challenges faced by the people of Ho Chi Minh City. The simplicity of life there, the appreciation for what little they have, and the people’s resilience have left a strong impression on me.
After the time I spent there, I feel a bit like a stranger in my own country now because this experience has changed my outlook on what would fulfill my life. In just six weeks, I’ve realized that what I thought would give me happiness was a flawed mindset. I do not believe luxury will have a profound effect on my happiness in my future as a physician. I had almost nothing during my time in Vietnam but the relationships I built and the impact I made on the lives of others gave me a sense of joy that I have been missing for a while. It’s a lesson I intend to carry with me throughout my life, and I hope to find ways to continue contributing to the betterment of the world, just as I did during my time in Ho Chi Minh City.
Written by Harb Hussein, RUSM, MS4
India, DMIHER

Reflecting on my first week in India as a global healthcare worker, I see that I have come to embrace a journey filled with learning and personal growth. Initially, I assumed that English would be widely spoken and medical practices would be similar to those in the USA. I also thought that being of Middle Eastern descent, I would blend in seamlessly.
However, I was met with a beautiful tapestry of cultural and operational differences. English is not as prevalent as I anticipated, except among doctors. This provided me with an opportunity to appreciate the diversity of languages and communication styles in India. I was also impressed with the dedication of the medical staff despite the hospital’s budget constraints. In India, resourcefulness isn’t just a skill, it’s a necessity – transforming limitations into innovative care.
The patient-to-healthcare worker ratio, much higher than in the US, has been an eye-opener. It’s a testament to the commitment and hard work of the healthcare community here, striving to provide the best care under challenging circumstances. This has inspired me to adapt and contribute more effectively.
Interestingly, my appearance and demeanor mark me as an outsider, but this has opened doors to heartwarming interactions and meaningful exchanges. It has led to moments of shared learning and understanding, both with my patients and peers. The trust and bonds being built, though gradual, are deeply fulfilling.
This experience is a profound reminder of the universal nature of healthcare – it transcends borders and cultures. It’s about connecting with people, understanding their needs, and adapting to provide the best care possible. I am excited to continue this journey, embracing each day as a new chapter in my professional and personal growth. The lessons learned here will undoubtedly shape my approach to healthcare in the most enriching ways.

Written by Vaidehi Patel, RUSM, MS4
India, DMIHER

Reflecting back on my 6-week GHE journey in India, it is hard to find the right words to describe it. The experience was so inspiring, motivating, and filled with so much learning. The people, the coordinators, the faculty, the staff, the attending physicians, the residents, the students and everyone on the hospital campus were so kind to us. We received so much help from everyone that our elective seemed like a home away from home and we were utterly sad when it was time to leave.
The doctors in India see hundreds of patients every week yet they are not burnt out with the patient load. They see them with a zeal, alertness and an enthusiasm for all their patients at all times. The patients come from so many different types of backgrounds and the doctors have to adjust to their level of education to treat. Despite many challenges they perform their duties effectively.
Practicing medicine in a resource-limited area is a tough job. We are so used to the abundance of resources here in the States that we forget to use them mindfully. The patients in India receive similar treatments, medications and services with half of the resources that we have access to in the USA. Moreover, the running of the hospital is smoother and faster in India than it is here in the USA. I have learned how to prioritize my treatment and resources now after my elective and I will always think twice before opening up random gauze and alcohol wipes and then not using them for the needed purposes.
By undergoing this elective in India, I know I can take steps in my medical career to eliminate health disparities in resource-limited settings around the world through future collaborations, research and educational interventions. This experience has also exposed me to diseases that are rare in the USA but are common in other countries. After my experience in India, I hope to have a career where I can work towards improving healthcare worldwide, reducing inequalities in healthcare, and protecting societies from global threats such as preventable diseases and new pandemics.
Not only did this elective offer me diverse experiential learning opportunities that improved my knowledge, skills, and competency ,but it also offered me lifelong friendships and connections. I am very thankful for the opportunity to undergo this GHE and I hope I can have more experiences like it in the future.