HEAL-IM Students Reflect on Clinic Rotation at Samueli Institute
Publication date
November 19, 2024
Part of the Samueli Institute’s mission is to provide future physicians with a sound foundation in the principles, philosophy and evidence-informed practices of integrative medicine. Therefore, fourth-year students in the UCI School of Medicine have the opportunity to take the Integrative Medicine Elective. This outpatient rotation is designed primarily for students in the institute’s Health Education to Advance Leaders in Integrative Medicine (HEAL-IM) Track, but it is also open to other medical students. The course includes a two- or four-week rotation with the Samueli Institute, during which students gain first-hand knowledge and experience in providing whole-person care. Students participate in discussions of the integrative assessments and treatment plans for patients. With the supervising faculty approval and patient consent, students may also participate in obtaining patient histories, perform appropriate physical examinations, and provide integrative patient education guidance. Here, two HEAL-IM students reflect on their experience at the Samueli Institute.
“This rotation was eye-opening. It was inspiring to see how much patients value and seek out integrative services. Understanding the role of integrative medicine within the broader health system and patient preferences for the sequence of treatments—from lifestyle changes to natural supplements to medication—was crucial. My rotation in integrative medicine has expanded my repertoire of modalities for patient care, and I plan to incorporate many of these insights into my future practice, advocating for a more evidence-based and patient-centered approach. Further health systems integration of integrative techniques holds great promise for improving patient outcomes and enhancing the overall healthcare experience.”
Isaac Hung, MS4 HEAL-IM Student
“I appreciated the opportunity to have hands-on experiences with the innovative multidisciplinary approach to integrative health. I was consistently impressed by the team-based approaches taken throughout the clinic, and the collaborative nature of the care delivered. After working with multiple providers, it became clear that they each had a deep understanding of their own domains, as well as principles and philosophies of their colleagues working alongside them. This collaboration allowed for patients to receive the detailed, individualized and care that is integral to integrative medicine modalities. I feel that this rotation has truly benefited my medical experience and am certain it will continue to be impactful on my career as I move forward as a future physician.”
