The decision to embark on a medical mission trip to the Philippines was fueled by a shared passion for providing healthcare to underserved communities. For one of us, this trip was deeply personal, as growing up in the Philippines made returning to serve the community a meaningful experience. For the other, it was an opportunity to make a positive impact while expanding medical skills, learning from experienced professionals, and immersing in a different culture. Both of us found this journey to be a profound and eye-opening experience, reinforcing our dedication to global health and anesthesia care in resource-limited settings.
Throughout the mission, we encountered a wide range of medical cases, particularly in pediatric care and anesthesia administration. Many of the cases we worked on included cleft lip and palate repairs (cheiloplasties and palatoplasties), as well as general surgeries such as open cholecystectomies, hernia repairs, and thyroidectomies. Additionally, we were exposed to procedures requiring regional anesthesia and general anesthesia with light paralytics, providing us with invaluable hands-on experience that we might not have had so early in our careers.
A typical day on the mission was intense but immensely rewarding. We started our mornings at 5:30 AM, sharing breakfast with the team before heading to Conrado F. Estrella Regional Medical and Trauma Center by 7:00 AM. Upon arrival, we prepared for surgeries by setting up operating rooms and conducting pre-operative assessments. As students, we had the opportunity to float from room to room, gaining exposure to different cases and anesthesia techniques. The days were long, often extending until 11:00 PM, but the dedication and energy of our team kept us motivated. One of the most humbling aspects of the experience was learning to administer anesthesia with minimal supplies, which highlighted the stark contrast between resource availability in the U.S. and the Philippines. Despite the challenges, the camaraderie among the healthcare professionals, including the local Filipino staff, made every moment fulfilling.
Our medical team was composed of a diverse and talented group of anesthesia providers. The mission was led by two attending anesthesiologists, Dr. Pinegar and Dr. Cramer, who were instrumental in guiding us through the experience. Alongside them were six Certified Anesthesiologist Assistants (CAAs): Steven Cox, Jessie Sabers, Laure Seraphin, Sabena Kachwalla, Kaley Mims-Glispin, and Sahana Manikandan. As students, we were incredibly fortunate to join this mission, working alongside such skilled professionals and learning from their expertise.
The clinical portion of the mission lasted five days, during which we were fully immersed in patient care. Each day brought new challenges and learning opportunities, testing our adaptability and problem-solving skills. Witnessing firsthand how anesthesia is practiced in a setting with limited resources reinforced the importance of innovation and resilience in medicine. This experience not only strengthened our technical skills but also deepened our empathy and understanding of global health disparities.
For students considering a medical mission trip, our advice is simple: take the leap! Stepping out of your comfort zone may seem daunting, but the personal and professional growth that comes from such an experience is immeasurable. Be prepared to work hard before and after the trip to keep up with coursework, but if you are passionate about global healthcare, the effort is absolutely worth it. Approach the mission with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a deep respect for the community you are serving. The connections you make and the lessons you learn will stay with you long after the trip is over.
This journey was truly life-changing for both of us, and we are already looking forward to future medical missions where we can continue to make a meaningful impact.
About the authors:
Zydrei Tancinco is a first year student in the Master of Science in Anesthesia program at Case Western Reserve University in Washington, D.C. Zydrei completed a bachelor's degree in Nutrition Dietetics from West Chester University.
Shannon Moore is a first year student in the Master of Science in Anesthesia program at Case Western Reserve University in Washington, D.C. Shannon completed a bachelor's degree in Biology from St. John’s University.