Most of my childhood was spent living in the Philippines before moving back to the United States for college. I am grateful for this opportunity to return and volunteer in different Philippine Surgical Medical Missions that took place at the Metro San Jose Medical Center in San Jose, Batangas, and the Grace Mission Hospital in Socorro, Oriental Mindoro.

Metro San Jose Medical Center in San Jose, Batangas

For our surgical missions, we set up health clinics in San Jose, Batangas, and Socorro, Oriental Mindoro. Through donations and fundraising prior to the visits, we were able to collect supplies to sponsor over 55 circumcision procedures and 22 minor surgical procedures, as well as donating the remaining basic medical and surgical supplies to local community hospitals. Interacting with physicians and patients, I was able to learn more about the cultural, social, financial and geographic aspects that contribute to the challenges present in the current Philippines health care system. In Socorro, for example, the amount of traveling that is needed to arrive at medical facilities has limited patients' ability to access health care resources and professionals.

Grace Mission Hospital in Socorro, Oriental Mindoro

Overall, my experience in the Philippines was enlightening and allowed me to expand my knowledge of health care systems beyond the United States. I hope that the lessons that I have learned through these visits will aid me in becoming a more understanding, compassionate, and competent physician.

 
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