I had the pleasure of completing the first eight weeks of my Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) capstone experience in La Paz, Bolivia.
As I reflect on this experience as a student at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), I feel deeply grateful for such a transformative, immersive opportunity. I was guided by my OTD capstone mentor, Zesarae Bodie, OTD, MPH, OTR/L, who helped ensure I was well prepared prior to departure. Additionally, MUSC’s Center for Global Health and the OTD program provided ongoing support and helped create a safe, structured experience both before and during my time in Bolivia.
This invaluable learning experience broadened my perspective on global health and highlighted the importance of respecting and honoring others’ cultures and healthcare practices. I gained insight into the lives of individuals in Bolivia, including cultural practices, healthcare experiences, and language barriers. I also developed a deeper understanding of the medical model and key differences between healthcare systems in the United States and Bolivia. This experience has strengthened my empathy for individuals in the U.S. who may face language barriers when accessing care.
While in Bolivia, I actively observed in clinical settings and participated in data collection. Through these unique experiences, along with interviews conducted with health professionals, I developed two patient-centered infographics aimed at improving education and reducing provider burden. These materials were designed for pregnant women and focused on preeclampsia awareness and healthy lifestyle habits during pregnancy. In addition, I contributed to a descriptive retrospective article examining preeclampsia, obesity, and associated comorbidities.
This global health experience significantly contributed to my professional growth by enhancing my cultural competence, adaptability, and clinical reasoning skills. Opportunities like this are valuable for OT students at MUSC because they encourage a broader understanding of global health, foster meaningful global relationships, and promote creative, client-centered approaches to care.
Experiences like these in diverse settings ultimately prepare future practitioners to provide more inclusive and effective interventions.
Learn more about MUSC’s global health efforts through research, education, training, and service:
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