Back in the U.S

We arrived at Logan International Airport in Boston, MA last week after six weeks in beautiful Cape Town, South Africa. 

Here are some of my thoughts when asked: “Why do an international APPE rotation?”

• To gain a new perspective of pharmacy practice in other parts of the world
• To understand the role pharmacists have outside the United States
• To bring knowledge we learn in the U.S to other parts of the world
• To build long-lasting relationships and learn more about different cultures along the way

In our last week, we finalized our community outreach project. We collaborated with Touching Nations in the Township of Delft and presented on the importance of proper hand hygiene to home-based care workers as part of an antimicrobial stewardship program. We worked alongside students from the University of the Western Cape and created an educational poster and flyers which included the five moments of hand-washing, important statistics and the major steps in hand washing. We provided hands-on activities and demonstrated good hand hygiene practices. At the beginning and end of our session, we gave the careworkers quizzes to test their knowledge and help improve future sessions. The goal of this project was to promote the importance of hand hygiene in order to prevent the spread of diseases and emphasize the importance of spreading the word to their patients.

As I compared South Africa’s healthcare system with our healthcare system in the US, I reflected on the difficulties faced by both as a result of cultural norms and government infrastructure. For example, low funding and unavailability of first-line medications sometimes limited pharmacological treatment options. However, South African providers were ultimately more adaptable and better problem-solvers for having regularly overcome these barriers. 

An international rotation allowed me to break away from the academic routine and expand my worldview in ways not possible through a domestic rotation. I gained confidence in handling the unexpected and learned invaluable problem-solving skills applicable to any professional environment. As a result, I feel more prepared for a PGY1 residency and a successful career as a pharmacist.

Here are a few things to know before going to South Africa:

1. The exchange rate is AMAZING

• While we were there it was about 14.50 rand for every 1 USD

2. Make sure you download the EML Clinical guide app on your phone

• This will provide you with up-to-date South African guidelines

3. Go into rotation with an open mind and great things will happen

4. South Africans are very welcoming and friendly

5. Be prepared for experiences of a lifetime

I highly recommend an international APPE rotation. It gave me unforgettable experiences and ever-lasting friendships!!