Overseas Clinical Experiences
In February 2024, twelve fourth-year medical students joined several USA Health attendings, residents, and staff on a 4-week mission trip to Rwanda. During their time there, they worked alongside local physicians and staff to provide care to patients in internal medicine, OBGYN, general surgery, anesthesia, and pediatrics at Kibogora Hospital, a rural hospital in southwest Rwanda. This annual mission trip is an elective for fourth-year medical students and provides them with the unique opportunity to deliver care in a remote setting with few resources.
Josh Smith (M4) developed an interest in the Rwanda mission trip during his first semester of medical school after hearing stories and seeing pictures from residents who had participated in earlier trips. He saw participation as an opportunity to step out of his comfort zone, experience a different culture, and expand his medical knowledge.
Claudia Stephens (M4) shared her experience of meeting Nadia, a little girl who had undergone surgery for a burn injury. Every time Nadia saw Claudia walk into the room, she would raise her cast and wave frantically. They not only shared snacks and colored pictures together, but Nadia also had the opportunity to practice her English, while Claudia learned some Rwandan. "Nadia and the people of Rwanda were truly the highlight of my trip."
Duane Baxter of the Christian Medical Ministry of South Alabama says plans are already being made for the trip in 2025.
