Healthcare in the Dominican Republic: An Immersive Experience
Study Abroad hosted its first healthcare tour over spring break. During an immersive healthcare and community-focused trip, 24 healthcare students and faculty visited San José de Ocoa, Dominican Republic, where students gained firsthand experience in both rural healthcare practices and sustainable community development. They volunteered at the San Antonio Nursing Home, providing care to elderly residents, and participated in health screenings during a community health campaign in Pueblo Abajo. Students also visited the Ocoa Rehabilitation Association, compared local and U.S. rehabilitation practices, and explored sustainable farming at the Martinez Center. Cultural experiences included a visit to the Padre Luis Quinn House Museum, a hike at Sendero Tatón to learn about water conservation, and a tour of San José Hospital. Engaging with local students at José Núñez de Cáceres Technical High School and working with children at a special education school enhanced their cross-cultural communication skills. The trip also included visits to a fire station, a diagnostic center, and discussions on sustainability, offering students a unique blend of hands-on healthcare experience and cultural exchange.
These visits provide students with a well-rounded view of healthcare, social services, and community development, helping them develop a more compassionate approach to patient care. They leave with a deeper understanding of how to respond to patients in diverse environments, particularly when resources are limited, which enhances their ability to provide empathetic, patient-centered care in their future healthcare careers. With the program offered bi-annually, future students will have the chance to embark on this transformative journey and gain valuable experiences that will shape their professional development.
“The Healthcare Study Abroad trip to the Dominican Republic, has opened my eyes to the profound connections between health, community, and sustainability. In San Jose de Ocoa, healthcare is not just a profession; it’s a way of life. Families come together to nurture one another, ensuring that well-being is both accessible and abundant. I will carry with me the lessons learned from this vibrant community, feeling hopeful that I can integrate these principles into my own life and future endeavors.” Jaime
“My overall experience during my visit to the Dominican Republic was very humbling. It was amazing to see how the community and the local people banded together to watch out and take care of one another. The sense of community is astonishing and the support everyone shows each other goes to show that the people of the DR are really one big family. That is my biggest takeaway from this trip that I will carry with me forever. I am forever grateful to have decided to participate in study abroad and will always be an advocate for others to participate.” Javier
“I am so thankful that I was able to attend this once in a lifetime trip to the Dominican Republic with ACC. I got to experience a whole new way of living and see a unique way of treating patients and people as a whole. The people of the DR take care of each other and are so beautiful inside and out. I am so glad to have had the opportunity to end my time in nursing school by spending it with my nursing school classmates and the EMS students in such a fun and special way.” Moriah
“I am so thankful to have been a part of this interdisciplinary learning and teaching opportunity. There is so much value in what we were able to do not only for the community of San Jose de Ocoa, but also for each other in the experiential learning process” Tanner
Students visit a local fire station to compare the emergency response systems of the Dominican Republic and the United States. This visit provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by emergency services and adaptable approach to handling emergencies.
Please join us for an exhibition and celebration on Wednesday, April 23, from 4-6pm in the Annex. Meet the students, hear their stories, and see the images from their trip! Light snacks will be provided.
What's next?
London's Legacy of Healthcare, March 14, 2026 - March 21, 2026.
This customized study abroad trip offers students in all areas of healthcare a unique opportunity to explore both the rich history and modern practices of healthcare in one of the world's most iconic cities. The program includes visits to the Wellcome Collection, enjoy the Discover Medical London tour, visit the Old Operating Theatre, Nightingale Museum and a Jack the Ripper tour. In addition to healthcare-focused excursions, students will enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of London's landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, the London Eye, and more.
Eligible students may receive an enrollment scholarship and participate in fundraising opportunities. Coaching on independent fundraising and budgeting is also provided. We’re partnering with Explorica Travel. Visit their site to see more about the trip and the current price. Register Online! Contact trish [dot] sangelo [at] arapahoe [dot] edu to learn more about fundraising and scholarships.
Healthcare in the Dominican Republic: 2027
Interested in participating in the 2027 trip back to the Dominican Republic? Contact trish [dot] sangelo [at] arapahoe [dot] edu to be added to the contact list and be one of the first to sign up when registration opens.