Global Health

Our residents have participated in numerous global health experiences. Many residents spend time at established sites through Indian Health Service (USA), Malawi, Tanzania, the Dominican Republic, and Guatemala. In addition, we have had residents participate in designer rotations across the world in Indonesia, China, Tanzania, Swaziland, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Nepal, India, Mexico, and Peru.

While not a requirement for participation in a global health elective, Med-Peds residents also have the option to apply to two Global Health Pathways through the pediatric residency program and the internal medicine residency program. The Pathways provide dedicated curricula woven longitudinally into residency through regular meetings, journal clubs, and dedicated mentorship. While you are away on a global health elective, your salary and benefits are covered.

There is money available to Med-Peds residents during the 2nd and 4th years that can be allocated to a global health experience. There is also an institutional global health research grant available to residents through the GROW award. Additionally, we encourage residents to apply for National and Regional AAP grants!

Resident Global Health Experiences

“During my second year, I also had the opportunity to work at the Indian Health Service site in Zuni, New Mexico. This fall, I will have the opportunity to travel to Guatemala as a third-year resident. I am incredibly grateful for these opportunities to serve in these communities and to deepen my understanding of how structural and cultural factors shape patients’ experiences with medicine. Furthermore, being part of the Global Health Pathway has provided me with opportunities to participate in educational didactics and thoughtful discussions about our role in providing compassionate, equitable care for all.”

- Laura Ruegsegger, Class of 2028 (pictured above)

“My time in Malawi was one of humility and joy and partnership. I loved working and learning with the Malawian residents, caring for patients with them, sharing my experiences and learning from theirs. And how beautiful it was to return to a place where I served as a Peace Corps volunteer a decade earlier as a doctor.”

- Grace Howard, Class of 2025