by Priyanka Harrypersad
Shadowing in Croatia was a transformative experience, helping me fully understand how comprehensive the healthcare system is in another country. This is my first time shadowing any physician in a hospital and it opened my eyes to the reality of working there. When observing five specialties-pathology, urology, ENT, oncology & surgery-each had different approaches to bedside manner, treatment plans and problem solving skills in each field. My goal for shadowing was learning more about specialties that are lesser known and getting to know how each department runs. For example, urology deals with a large volume of prostate cancer and most biopsies are sent to pathology for a second opinion.
All in all, my time in Croatia broadened my horizons in intercultural development. It reinforced the commitment I want to have with providing care to patients and helping immigrants in need as this is my goal for working in healthcare. Lastly, it highlighted how working in healthcare is going to be lifelong learning in either medical advancements or cultural competencies.
