Child Family Health International

I recently completed the Global Health in the Philippines program offered by Child Family Health International (CFHI), and it was an incredible experience. Our first week was spent in Manila, where we explored the historical and cultural factors that continue to shape the country’s healthcare system. Dr. Katrina Narcida, our local coordinator, was an engaging and supportive guide who not only answered our questions but also immersed us in Filipino culture. We visited both publicly and privately funded health centers, as well as local markets offering traditional remedies—giving us insight into the wide range of healthcare practices in the Philippines. In the second week, we traveled to Tingloy, a remote island in the Batangas province. Life on the island is quiet and community-centered, with no major roads or cars and only one physician serving the entire population. We worked closely with the Rural Health Unit and observed how healthcare is delivered in this unique setting. One standout experience was witnessing the monthly immunization program, where nurses travel by motorcycle to different Barangays (villages) to administer vaccines to children. Community health workers in each Barangay played an essential role in assisting the nurses, highlighting how healthcare in the Philippines is truly a community-based effort. After each round of vaccinations, the grateful communities welcomed us with delicious home-cooked meals—a touching display of hospitality that reflects the warmth and generosity so deeply rooted in Filipino culture. Whether you're a medical student like me or simply someone interested in global health, I highly recommend this program. It offers not only knowledge, but also the confidence and cultural insight needed to navigate and appreciate healthcare systems around the world. Immersing myself in Filipino culture—where community, compassion, and resilience are deeply woven into everyday life—was an experience that will stay with me both personally and professionally. This unforgettable opportunity was made possible through the support of the Friends of the Philippines Scholarship, for which I am incredibly grateful. Their generosity allowed me to learn firsthand from the communities and healthcare professionals in the Philippines, and I will carry these lessons with me throughout my global health journey.

My experience in Durban, South Africa with CFHI’s Global Health Program was truly transformative. I gained hands-on exposure to HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and non-communicable diseases, working alongside dedicated local physicians in resource-limited settings. The local team’s passion and willingness to teach made this experience both educational and deeply impactful. Beyond clinical work, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in South African culture and explore its incredible history. From hiking Table Mountain in Cape Town, visiting Nelson Mandela’s historic sites, and spotting rockhopper penguins, to trying Durban’s famous Bunny Chow, every moment was unforgettable. This experience strengthened my passion for global health, patient advocacy, and health equity. I highly recommend this program to anyone seeking to broaden their medical and cultural understanding while making a meaningful impact.

When I arrived in Ecuador, I was welcomed with warmth and hospitality. My host family made me feel at home, introducing me to local traditions, delicious food, and the fascinating world of vector control. Mornings began with fresh fruit and eggs, followed by hands-on learning about malaria and dengue prevention, including local remedies like Palo Santo and vitamin B for mosquito deterrence. Most of my time in Ecuador was in Puyo. Here, life moved at a slower pace with mornings marked by the sound of chickens and steady jungle rain. I worked with the Vector Control team, gaining firsthand knowledge of mosquito species, insecticides, and field techniques. Visiting communities with standing water and high mosquito activity was eye-opening, showing me the direct impact of public health efforts. The generosity of the locals was striking; I was welcomed into homes, offered food, and even had the chance to taste fresh guaba straight from the tree. One of the most fascinating parts of my journey was discovering Ecuador’s rich natural medicine. At an ethnobotanical park, I learned about plants used for everything from wound healing to pain relief. A unique (and unexpected) experience was trying a traditional remedy for back pain: Ortiga. These stinging nettles were surprisingly effective. At a local hospital, I observed a wide range of medical cases, from parasitic infections to chronic illnesses. My supervising physician was excellent—he took his time, listened deeply, and connected with patients on a level that went beyond medicine. His ability to integrate cultural and spiritual aspects into care left a lasting impression and reinforced my own passion for patient-centered medicine. Another highlight was spending time in a remote Kichwa community. With no WiFi or modern distractions, life revolved around nature, family, and tradition. The children were eager to learn, and teaching them English became one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. I fully embraced the experience—bathing in the river, fishing with a machete, painting my face with natural dyes, and learning about traditional healing methods. Meals were fresh and simple, made from ingredients grown right in the backyard. In my final days, I worked at a rural clinic and helped conduct medical visits in an isolated Shuar village. It was a humbling experience, reinforcing the importance of accessible healthcare in underserved areas. This journey wasn’t just about medical training—it was about cultural immersion, learning a new language, personal growth, and human connection. For anyone seeking an authentic and transformative experience, I can’t recommend this opportunity enough!