At Loma Linda University Health (LLUH), the Global Health Institute (GHI) hosts a program known as the International Professional Development Program (IPDP). This initiative offers healthcare professionals and administrators from around the world a unique opportunity to expand their knowledge by observing techniques and procedures in their respective fields at LLUH.
The primary goal of IPDP is to enrich participants' perspectives on healthcare and education through immersive experiences and meaningful interactions within the LLUH community. This non-degree program focuses on observational learning, clinical exposure, and administrative development, catering specifically to experienced international professionals and licensed clinicians seeking practices unavailable in their home countries.
One of the foundational principles emphasized in IPDP is the concept of whole-person care, which encompasses physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and relational aspects of healthcare. Participants gain insights into LLUH's holistic approach to patient care, which is integral to the institution’s mission.
Recently, LLUH had the privilege of hosting eight fourth-year medical students from the Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP) in May. These students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in LLUH’s environment, creating collaborative relationships with administrators, clinicians, faculty, and staff across various specialties and academic disciplines.
Reflecting on their experiences, Hadjiemar Lapidez, one of the participants, shared his enthusiasm about implementing what he learned when he returns home: “We are very excited to share our experience of LLUH’s approach to healthcare and explore how we can integrate these learnings into our practices in the Philippines, despite not having all of the same resources.”
Lapidez also highlighted his profound experience with LLUH’s chaplaincy services: “For me, the highlight was spending time with the chaplains. They demonstrated exceptional skills in navigating emotions with patients and their families. It was truly moving to witness their empathy and the impact it had on the patient. I found myself deeply touched by the experience.”
The supportive learning environment at LLUH left a lasting impression on the visiting students. Lapidez noted the difference in approach between LLUH and healthcare settings in the Philippines: “Here at LLUH, we felt encouraged to express our thoughts without hesitation. Our supervisors provided constructive feedback in a manner that allowed us to learn and grow. This level of openness and support is something we aspire to cultivate in our future roles as interns and mentors.”