Document Type

Article

Domestic/International

International

Location

Accra, Ghana

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

This reflection examines a comprehensive summer healthcare experience in Ghana, combining clinical practice, research, and pathological sciences across two major medical institutions. Through dual placements at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital's Stroke Unit and 37 Military Hospital Mortuary, the internship provided hands-on clinical experience, equity-based research opportunities, and exposure to post-mortem examination procedures. Key outcomes included confirmation of commitment to pursuing medicine, development of cross-cultural communication skills, and enhanced understanding of healthcare delivery systems. The experience highlighted critical healthcare equity issues while demonstrating the value of liberal arts education in medical contexts. Research focused on reducing emergency department wait times for stroke patients revealed the intersection of clinical practice and healthcare systems improvement. This transformative experience solidified career objectives in global health and health systems research, emphasizing the importance of cultural competency and systemic thinking in medical practice.

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The views expressed in this paper are solely those of the author.