If you're a resident or fellow interested in a global health elective, here are key factors to consider:

• Timing & Logistics – Plan ahead to ensure your elective fits within your training schedule and program requirements. Check in with your program director early to find the best times in your schedule.
• Site Selection – Choose a location and institution that align with your interests and offers a structured, ethical learning environment.
• Funding & Support – Explore available financial resources, including travel grants and institutional funding.
• Health & Safety – Ensure necessary vaccinations, travel health insurance, and risk assessments are completed before departure.
• Cultural & Ethical Considerations – Approach your experience with cultural humility and an understanding of the ethical implications of global health work.
• Mentorship & Career Impact – Connect with faculty mentors to integrate global health into your career goals and maximize your learning experience.
• Consider current federal requirements and updates – At this time, those in the United States on a visa are not recommended to leave the country voluntarily. 

Elective Opportunities
Here is a short list of some electives that have been pre-arranged. This list is not comprehensive, and you can always check with your program for additional opportunities.

Elective Opportunities

8-12 Months Ahead

• Discuss timing of the elective with your Program Director and review the approval process.

• Research potential elective sites and ensure they align with your interests and training goals.If you are planning on doing a research or scholarly project, take steps to work with a mentor and approval process

• Explore funding options and begin applications (see below).

• Get a referral from your primary care doctor or Express Care (https://health.ucdavis.edu/myucdavishealth/express-care/) for the Travel Clinic to allow time for vaccinations. An appointment can take several months, so it’s imperative to start this process early!

• Check your passport validity—it must be valid for at least six months after your return date.

6 Months Ahead

• Make sure your  Travel Clinic appointment is scheduled and begin any required vaccinations. Contact cmcbeth@health.ucdavis.edu if you are having difficulty scheduling your appointment

• Register your trip with UC Away (this is required for all electives abroad) UC Away Travel Registration

• Complete any elective forms required by your department and Graduate Medical Education.

• Confirm visa requirements for your destination and complete the application process if necessary.

• Apply for funding to help cover travel and elective expenses.

• Start booking your flights and lodging to secure reasonable prices.

• Register for your pre-departure workshop by contacting cmcbeth@health.ucdavis.edu

1–2 Months Ahead

• Ensure all flights, lodging, and transportation are finalized.
• Register your trip with the U.S. State Department via the STEP Program https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step for safety updates.
• Send your detailed itinerary to your Program Director and AJ Leeds, Travel Security Manager ajleeds@ucdavis.edu. Sending this will ensure we can contact you in case of emergency
• Put together a packing list and medical kit with essential supplies for your elective

Download the Travel Packing List

• Journal Your Experience – Take time to reflect on what you’re learning, the challenges you face, and the impact of your work. Keeping a journal can help process your experiences and support future career goals.

• Maintain Healthy Habits – Prioritize hydration, rest, and self-care. Adjust to time zone changes and listen to your body’s needs.

• Food & Water Safety – Follow local food safety guidelines. Stick to bottled or purified water, avoid raw foods, and be cautious with street food. 
  UC Davis Travel Clinic Discharge Guide for Travelers

• Know Your Insurance Resources – If any health or safety issues arise, call the number on your travel insurance card for assistance. You will get your travel insurance card once you register your trip on UC Away.

• Cultural Adjustment – Be patient with yourself during cultural transitions. Read more about Cultural Adaptation Syndrome here: https://www.nafsa.org/sites/default/files/ektron/files/underscore/theory_connections_adjustment.pdf

• Enjoy & Stay Present – Take time to learn, build relationships, and immerse yourself in the experience!

• Check in with Family & Friends – Take time to reconnect and share your experiences with those who supported you.

• Understand Reverse Culture Shock – Returning home can come with unexpected challenges. Learn more about Reverse Cultural Transition Syndrome here: https://thecenterforgrowth.com/tips/reverse-culture-shock

• Reflect on Your Experience – Review your journal and think about how this elective has shaped your perspectives and career goals.

• Share Your Story – Submit photos and a short summary to be featured by the UC Davis Center for Global Health—your experience can inspire others!

• Turn Your Work into Scholarship – If you conducted research or had an impactful case, consider developing it into a case report, poster, or presentation.

• Be Proud! – You’ve gained valuable skills, insight, and experience—celebrate your growth and contributions to global health!

Dattesh Dave, Resident, Plastic Surgery:  

“From February 20-28^th 2024 I joined the Pediatric Orthopedic Hand surgeon Dr. Kevin Little from Cincinnati Children's Hospital on an American Society for Surgery of the Hand Touching Hands Project trip to Health and Care Foundation Hospital, Ahmedabad India. This was a large endeavor including Pediatric Orthopedics, Pediatric Spine surgery, Pediatric Anesthesiologist, Pediatric Hand Therapy and many local hosts. This trip was extra special as I have been visiting my family in Ahmedabad since I was 1 years old. Altogether we saw almost 100 patients with a significant amount of untreated cerebral palsy and brachial plexus birth injuries. The upper extremity team performed 25 operations including wrist fusions, tendon transfers, and many syndactyl surgeries amongst many others. This trip has been going on since 2014 and continues to grow every year”

Alex Zhornitsky, Fellow, Gastroenterology:  

"Participating in global health has been a unique and rewarding experience, providing hands-on procedural training and opportunities for international collaboration. Beyond fostering personal adaptability and lifelong growth, it also creates a lasting impact by equipping local medical professionals with the skills and confidence to treat patients independently, ensuring sustainable healthcare improvements even in your absence"

Shannon Satterwhite, Resident, Family Medicine: 

“I spent four weeks in Riobamba, Ecuador as part of the Cacha Medical Spanish Institute program. This organization provides clinical immersion and intensive medical Spanish courses while benefiting the rural community of Cacha, Ecuador through investment of program proceeds into health infrastructure. I spent mornings working alongside an Ecuadorian physician in the Clínica Santa Rosa, a clinic run by the Ministerio de Salud Pública. In the afternoons, I had small-group intensive Spanish courses focused on clinically-useful vocabulary and etiquette. Since returning home, I have continued weekly classes with my Ecuadorian instructor in preparation to take the Alta language proficiency exam this Spring.”

Bao Sean Nguyen: Fellow, Gastroenterology 

“My second Rwandan Endoscopy Week as a fellow in November 2023 was just as memorable as the first. This year we were lucky enough to be able to participate in the educational week as well as the procedure week. Giving lectures to both Rwandan and US colleagues and having hands-on experience in the Rwandan medical education system was incredibly rewarding. I cherished seeing friends that I made last year and making new friendships this year. I was especially proud of the fact that our positive experience from last year convinced even more of our colleagues at UC Davis to come with us—we added another gastroenterology attending, internal medicine resident, and nurse colleague. ”

Boya Abudu: Resident, Dermatology 

“I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in a 2-week clinical dermatology elective in Seoul, South Korea. My elective took place at Severance Hospital, a teaching affiliate of Yonsei University. I received comprehensive exposure to a variety of skin conditions: from common concerns such as acne and hair loss, to more complex cases such as autoimmune diseases and cutaneous lymphomas. I also learned about cutting-edge laser treatments for scars and was able to observe various surgical procedures. This experience enriched me with invaluable skills that I am eager to apply in my future practice.  

I highly recommend this elective to anyone interested in international medicine, research, or public health. The online application is through the Severance International Fellowship Program at the Yonsei Institute for Global Health, available for most medical specialties. Beyond the enriching clinical experience, the vibrant atmosphere of Seoul and cultural exploration will make this an unforgettable and worthwhile experience. “

Julia Riccardi: Resident, General Surgery

“The UC Davis Center for Global Health Travel Award made it possible for me to travel to Peru and provide essential surgical care to those without access to it. Global surgery has played a vital role in my education during residency and will continue to be a focus in my future career. I have learned so much planning and participating in international surgical humanitarian work. These lessons will stay with me and help me be a better provider to my patients abroad and at home. “

Juliette Gerardo: Global Health Fellow, Emergency Medicine 

“"As the Global Health Fellow in The Gambia, I had the privilege of working with two distinct hospital systems, over multiple trips, helping provide point-of-care ultrasound training to healthcare providers. Over time, I witnessed remarkable growth among the participants, many of whom have transitioned from learners to becoming teachers themselves, sharing their knowledge with colleagues. This shift not only improved their diagnostic skills but also significantly shortened time to diagnosis and treatment management, enhancing patient care. Additionally, working across different health systems and environments exposed me to disease processes not typically encountered in the U.S., broadening my perspective on the diverse challenges and innovations within each facility."

You can join an existing elective or set up your own, with approval from your department and GME. When selecting a site, look for electives with structured mentorship, sustainable partnerships, clear educational objectives, and alignment with ethical global health principles. 

Securing funding for a global health elective requires early planning. Explore multiple sources, including:

• GME Educational Stipend – You can use this to cover elective-related expenses
• Collaboration Award – Provides financial support for global health projects during one academic year. Apply here.
• Doximity Travel Award – Offers flight support; must apply before purchasing flight tickets. More info https://foundation.doximity.com/
• UC Davis Global Affairs Seed Grants – Funding for research-based international opportunities, due in late fall each year for funding in the next academic year. Learn more
• Academics Without Borders: can apply for small $5000 grants for academic projects, learn more: https://www.awbusa.org/submit-a-proposal.html
• U21 Collaborative Seed Fund: Collaborative seed grants available $5000-$10,000, apply here: https://universitas21.com/opportunities/professional-services-faculty-opportunities/funding-opportunities/?utm_campaign=40880373-Collaborative%20Seed%20Fund%202025&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9kiabkUn_H2d_w67qV4i1rt8hnqctRJT-0gP2D_kcxYe8Jf11vbV8N-6dPF
• Departmental Funds – Many departments have additional funds available. Speak with your program leadership about options

Plan ahead and apply early to maximize your chances of securing funding!

Interested in incorporating research into your global health elective? Some programs require an elective to be part of your scholarly project, so it’s important to start planning early!

Things to Consider When Choosing a Research Project

• What interests you? Brainstorm topics that align with your clinical and academic goals.
• Which region? Consider the area of the world where you’d like to conduct research.
• Languages spoken? Language skills can influence site selection and project feasibility.
• Existing partnerships? Some institutions have established global health collaborations that offer structured research opportunities.

For guidance and to explore current research openings, contact elalvarez@ucdavis.edu for additional help!

The UC Davis Center for Global Health offers a structured Pre-Departure Curriculum to ensure that residents and fellows are well-prepared for their global health electives. Some residency and fellowship programs require this training, while others strongly recommend participation.

Quarterly Pre-Departure Training Sessions

We offer quarterly interactive workshops covering key topics such as:

• Ethics in Global Health – Navigating ethical dilemmas, avoiding harm, and respecting local autonomy.

• Professionalism & Cultural Humility – Understanding cultural adaptation, managing culture shock, and practicing with respect.

• Health & Safety – Pre-trip medical preparation, emergency planning, and minimizing risks in austere settings.

• Research in Global Health – IRB processes, informed consent in cross-cultural contexts, and sustainable research collaborations.

• Photography & Social Media – Ethical storytelling, patient privacy, and responsible representation of global health work.

• Practicing Clinically Abroad – Scope of practice, licensing considerations, and specialty-specific concerns.

• Post-Trip Debriefing – Reflecting on experiences, addressing challenges, and sharing lessons learned.

Some programs require an elective to be part of your scholarly project, so think about this early! Consider:

• Your research interests
• The region where you'd like to work
• Any languages you speak that could enhance the experience

To schedule a session or for more information, contact: cmcbeth@health.ucdavis.edu

The UC Davis Center for Global Health is here to support residency and fellowship programs in facilitating global health electives for their trainees. We offer resources to streamline the process, ensure participant safety, and maximize the educational impact.

How We Can Support You

• Funding Opportunities – Help your residents and fellows secure travel funding

• Pre-Departure Curriculum – Ensure trainees are prepared for global health electives.

• Administrative Support – Guidance on required forms, approvals, and compliance.

• Research & Scholarly Support – Assist trainees in integrating research into their electives.

Key Resources

• Funding Information

• Pre-Departure Curriculum

• Required Forms & Approvals

For assistance, contact us at: cmcbeth@health.ucdavis.edu

We’re happy to collaborate and customize support for your program’s global health goals!

Here are some recommended books and articles to deepen your understanding of global health, ethics, and cross-cultural experiences before your elective.

Key Articles & Reports

• Crump, J. A., Sugarman, J. (2010). "Ethics and Best Practice Guidelines for Training Experiences in Global Health." The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 83(6), 1178-1182.
  • Best practices for trainees engaging in global health.
• Kanter, S. L. (2008). "Global Health is More Important in a Smaller World." Academic Medicine, 83(2), 115-116.
  • Why global health should be integrated into medical training.
• Binagwaho, A., Kyamanywa, P., Farmer, P. (2013). "The Human Resources for Health Program in Rwanda—A New Partnership." New England Journal of Medicine, 369, 2054-2059.
  • A model of sustainable global health partnerships.
• World Health Organization. (2022). Building Healthier Populations: Global Health Ethics Report.
  • A WHO perspective on global health ethics. Available online.
• Seay, L., Dionne, K. Y., & Lee-Koo, K. (2020). "Unregulated Photography Risks Reinforcing Harmful Stereotypes about Low-Resource Settings." The Lancet Global Health, 8(12), e1507-e1508.
  • Discusses ethical concerns regarding photography in global health and the importance of responsible visual storytelling.
• Duber, H. C., Patterson, J. E., Makanga, C., & Rosenberg, M. L. (2010). "Global Health Professionalism: The Critical Role of Professionalism in Global Health Collaborations." Academic Medicine, 85(11), 1609-1611.
  • Highlights the importance of professionalism, ethical conduct, and mutual respect in global health partnerships.

Essential Books

• Farmer, P. (2013). To Repair the World: Paul Farmer Speaks to the Next Generation. University of California Press.
  • Insights from Dr. Paul Farmer on social justice and global health equity.
• Farmer, P. (2005). Pathologies of Power: Health, Human Rights, and the New War on the Poor. University of California Press.
  • Examines how poverty and inequality shape health outcomes globally.
• Kidder, T. (2003). Mountains Beyond Mountains: The Quest of Dr. Paul Farmer, a Man Who Would Cure the World. Random House.
  • A biography of Paul Farmer and his work in Haiti and beyond.
• Arthur Kleinman, A. (1988). The Illness Narratives: Suffering, Healing, and the Human Condition. Basic Books.
  • A critical look at how different cultures perceive illness and healing.
• Farmer, P., Kim, J., Kleinman, A., & Basilico, M. (2013). Reimagining Global Health: An Introduction.University of California Press.
  • A foundational text for those new to global health.
• Benson, J. (2023). Ethics in Global Health: Practice, Research, and Education. Oxford University Press.
  • A deep dive into the ethical complexities of global health engagement.
• Moyo, D. (2009). Dead Aid: Why Aid is Not Working and How There is a Better Way for Africa. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
  • A critique of foreign aid and its unintended consequences in Africa, arguing for market-based solutions.

Optional Reading for Cultural Context & Perspectives

• Beah, I. (2007). A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
  • A personal story from Sierra Leone, providing context for post-conflict health challenges.
• Kristof, N., & WuDunn, S. (2009). Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide.Knopf.
  • A discussion on gender inequities in global health.

Before traveling for a global health elective, it's valuable to read about the history, culture, and healthcare system of your destination. Understanding the local context will enhance your experience, improve patient interactions, and help you navigate cultural differences with respect and humility.

Recommended Reading Topics

• History & Politics – Gain insight into how historical events have shaped the healthcare system and current public health issues.

• Cultural Norms & Traditions – Learn about greetings, gender roles, family structures, and healthcare beliefs.

• Health System & Ethics – Understand the structure of the country’s medical system and ethical considerations for visiting providers.

• Colonial & Post-Colonial Impact – Many health disparities stem from historical influences—reading about this can provide context.

• Local Literature & Memoirs – Novels, poetry, and first-hand accounts offer a personal perspective on culture and identity.

California Social Medicine Fellow Applications Are Open!

Calling applicants for our one-year program designed to support physicians in making meaningful improvements to healthcare access and quality for underserved Californians while maintaining their well-being. The California HEAL Program is for early-career FM, IM, and Med-Peds physicians committed to serving underserved communities in the Inland Empire, Central Valley, or San Diego, California. 

Learn More