High School Study Abroad in Cusco, Peru

My internship with International Medical Aid in Peru was life-changing and gave me deep insight into global health disparities and the cultural complexities of healthcare delivery. As I immersed myself in the tapestry of Peruvian life, I was consistently struck by the resilience of the health providers and the people they served. From learning about Incan history to seeing firsthand how healthcare can look very different between the United States and Peru, the experience was full of meaningful revelations. These moments expanded my worldview and helped cement my desire to pursue a career in healthcare with a focus on underserved populations. One of the most impactful aspects of my time in Peru was seeing how healthcare delivery contrasted with what I was used to in the United States. In many rural areas, the infrastructure for health care is still developing. Some clinics and hospitals lacked basic medical supplies and advanced diagnostic equipment that are often taken for granted in more developed settings. For instance, at Clinic Metropolitano, we frequently took blood pressure by hand because there were few automatic machines. In these circumstances, healthcare professionals demonstrated tremendous resourcefulness and creativity. Specialized care was often limited, especially in rural regions, and many patients had to travel long distances to receive basic healthcare, let alone see a specialist. During mental health clinics in a rural town, I saw how limited access to psychiatric care affected patients. Some women struggled to find support if they experienced sexual or physical violence, and young children did not always have the opportunity to speak openly with a psychologist about issues at home or school. At the same time, I was able to observe a public healthcare system that aimed to provide care to all who worked and contributed. For example, those eligible for EsSalud clinics could receive treatment, but they sometimes faced long waits for appointments, procedures, and medications that were occasionally out of stock. When I visited a hospital to observe an Achilles tendon repair, I learned the patient had waited a year for surgery—an experience that highlighted the realities of limited resources. I also noticed that patient privacy was handled differently in a busy public teaching hospital. Interns were often allowed to observe and sometimes participate in procedures in ways that would be approached more cautiously in the United States. These experiences helped me better understand the trade-offs, pressures, and ethical considerations that come with delivering care in resource-limited, high-demand settings. Navigating cultural differences was part of everyday life in Peru. The country’s rich cultural heritage—rooted in Indigenous, Spanish, and African histories—shapes both healthcare practices and health beliefs. One of the most important lessons I learned was the value of cultural competence in healthcare. When cultural differences are understood and respected, they can significantly improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. Traditional medicine and healers remain highly relevant in many Peruvian communities, especially in rural areas. During my internship, I often saw patients using leaves and other herbal remedies that had been passed down through generations. I observed healthcare providers who respectfully acknowledged these practices while also introducing modern medical interventions when needed, carefully balancing both approaches. I also saw patients who self-medicated with antibiotics and pain medications purchased from street vendors. Although this practice can be risky, physicians approached these conversations with patience and education, encouraging safer behaviors. This experience reinforced for me how essential it is to build trust and collaborate with local communities to provide holistic, culturally sensitive, and effective care. Language barriers were another meaningful part of the learning process. Even though I was conversational in Spanish, many patients spoke only Quechua, an Indigenous language common in the Andean region. This sometimes made verbal communication challenging, but it also underscored the universal nature of empathy in healthcare. One powerful moment occurred when I interacted with a 91-year-old woman who came to the clinic alone. Despite the language gap, we communicated through gestures and with the help of the physician’s limited Quechua. That encounter showed me how deeply kindness, patience, and compassionate presence can impact someone who rarely receives medical attention. I also encountered patients with chronic conditions whose health had been affected by a combination of access issues, lifestyle factors, and healthcare hesitancy. For example, one man in his fifties had uncontrolled diabetes that was leading to neuropathy and vision problems because he did not consistently renew his insulin. Due in part to diet and social norms, many patients lived with chronic hypertension. One patient, who had been taking his medications for three months, still presented with a blood pressure of 176/101. The doctor immediately referred him to the emergency room, knowing that such levels could lead to a stroke or heart attack. These cases were powerful reminders of the importance of preventive care, education, and easily accessible services in managing chronic disease. Another highlight of my internship was learning about Peru’s rich Incan history and how it continues to influence health beliefs and practices today. The Incas were known for their sophisticated knowledge of medicine and their holistic approach to healthcare. They used a wide variety of medicinal plants, many of which remain central to traditional Andean medicine. The Incan emphasis on the mind–body–spirit connection is still reflected in the beliefs of many Indigenous communities. As part of my internship, I visited several archaeological sites where we discussed the Incan approach to health and medicine. I learned about trepanation, the surgical removal of a piece of the skull to treat head injuries—a practice that revealed advanced knowledge of anatomy and surgical technique. These visits gave me a deep appreciation for Peru’s cultural heritage and the ways historical knowledge continues to shape modern health practices. During a tour of the city and surrounding ruins, we also learned about the arrival of the Spanish and the impact of colonization on the Incan people. We heard stories of the encomienda system and the attempted rebellion led by Tupac Amaru, the last Incan leader, whose tragic fate is still remembered. The Plaza de Armas—also called the Plaza de Lágrimas—was the site of many of these events and remains a powerful symbol of resilience and history. Seeing Spanish-built cathedrals constructed with repurposed Incan stone was a vivid reminder of the layers of history present in modern-day Peru. Overall, the tour was an unforgettable experience that deepened my understanding of Incan and Spanish history and its lasting influence on the region. Comparing the healthcare systems of the United States and Peru was eye-opening and thought-provoking. In the United States, healthcare is often characterized by advanced technology, ready access to specialized care, and a strong emphasis on patient autonomy—though these benefits are intertwined with high costs and complex insurance systems. In Peru, particularly in rural areas, healthcare is shaped by limited resources, the continued relevance of traditional medicine, and strong family and community involvement in health decisions. I noticed that patients in the United States are often highly informed about their conditions and actively involved in decision-making. In Peru’s rural communities, there tended to be more deference to healthcare professionals and traditional healers. This difference seemed linked to varying levels of education, cultural beliefs, and access to medical information. I saw many instances where patients trusted and followed the advice of their providers wholeheartedly. Preventive care was another area of contrast. In the United States, routine screenings and vaccinations are widely promoted. In Peru, preventive services can be harder to access, and patients may seek care later in the course of their illness, when conditions are more advanced. This experience sharpened my awareness of the importance of public health initiatives and the need to improve access to preventive care worldwide. Ultimately, this internship was not just an academic experience—it was a journey of personal growth. Living and working within another cultural and healthcare system pushed me beyond my comfort zone and taught me to adapt quickly. I learned to navigate communication barriers, build rapport with patients from diverse backgrounds, and develop a deep respect for cultural practices that differ from my own. These experiences have made me more flexible, empathetic, and culturally sensitive. Some of the most rewarding moments came from bonding with local healthcare providers and community members. Their dedication, perseverance, and compassion were incredibly inspiring. Despite the challenges and resource limitations they faced, they were unwavering in their commitment to providing the best possible care. Their example strengthened my own resolve to pursue a health-related career focused on service and equity. Now, more than ever, I am committed to working in healthcare—particularly in global health and healthcare equity. After completing my undergraduate studies and medical school, I envision myself serving underserved populations in international settings, working to increase access to and improve the quality of care. I am also deeply interested in public health initiatives that address social determinants of health and emphasize preventive care. My time in Peru sparked a fascination with medical anthropology and the ways cultural beliefs and practices influence health behaviors. I believe that understanding these factors on a deeper level will help create more effective interventions and better health outcomes. My internship with International Medical Aid in Peru changed my life and provided invaluable insight into global healthcare disparities and cultural competence. From the ingenuity of healthcare providers working in resource-limited settings to the richness of cultural heritage preserved since the Incan civilization, every day offered something meaningful to learn. The differences between the healthcare systems of the United States and Peru were both surprising and illuminating, reinforcing the need to work toward more equitable global systems. This experience solidified my commitment to a career in medicine, with a focus on global health and healthcare equity. It taught me the importance of empathy, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity in delivering compassionate, effective care. As I continue on my path toward becoming a physician, I am motivated to apply what I learned in Peru to advocate for improved access to quality healthcare for all, regardless of socioeconomic background.

I truly had such a great experience. All the staff were incredibly kind and willing to help us 24/7. The food was amazing, and I still miss it. Overall, my favorite part of the three weeks was the community we built together. We all became so close in such a short time, and everyone was truly inspiring. I am so grateful to International Medical Aid for giving me this experience and introducing me to people who I know will continue to be a part of my life.