In our modern world, we are more connected than ever, and as a result, university programs are adapting to bring people and ideas together in global contexts.
At the University of Ottawa, the Undergraduate Medical Education (UGME) program launched its Global Health Concentration in 2016. Since then, several MD students have enrolled and participated in electives across the globe in countries such as South Africa, Tanzania, India, China and Canada’s northern communities.
“This optional concentration is an excellent opportunity for MD students to gain a deeper understanding of underserved and marginalized populations in a global context,” said Dr. Melissa Forgie, Vice-Dean of UGME.
Using the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada (AFMC) global health objectives as its foundation, the concentration began as a grassroots proposal presented by students in the uOttawa Global Health Interest Group in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine’s Global Health Program.
“I wanted to further my education in global health, as it has a widespread influence across all fields of medicine,” said Natalie Rakocevic, a second-year MD student who is currently registered in the concentration. “I also value the unique opportunities offered by the program, such as Global Health Journal club, focused talks and elective opportunities.”
The concentration encompasses a formalized framework, an online learning platform and various elective opportunities.
“I was drawn by the Global Health Concentration because it offered me structure, guidance and the necessary mentorship to gain knowledge and skills in a global context,” said Lucia Chehade, an MD/PhD student who recently completed the elective in India.
“I got the opportunity to meet and shadow extremely talented physicians and surgeons during my two-week elective. As an observer, I saw a variety of cases including head wounds, fractures, cases of pneumonia, post-surgical infections, labor and delivery and tumor removal.”
MD students at uOttawa are encouraged to consider this concentration when registering for next year’s courses by visiting the official website to learn more.
