On February 5, 2025, Ms. Ruba Alagha and Mr. Ibrahim Shnati, PharmD students from the University of Iowa, completed their international pharmacy patient care rotation at the Gulf Medical University (GMU) Academic Health System in the United Arab Emirates.
Ms. Ruba and Mr. Ibrahim successfully completed six rotations in the United States before embarking on their current international rotation in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Their prior experiences in diverse healthcare settings provided them with a strong foundation in patient care, clinical decision-making, and healthcare administration. During their time in the U.S., they engaged in various aspects of pharmacotherapy, including managing complex medication regimens, understanding the nuances of hospital protocols, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes. Their exposure to different healthcare models prepared them well for the transition to the UAE healthcare system, allowing them to contribute effectively during their international rotation.
In the UAE, Ms. Ruba and Mr. Ibrahim were actively involved in intensive care and cardiology pharmacotherapy services, where they played key roles in patient medication history assessments, medication reconciliation, and ensuring accurate medication verification. Their work also encompassed pharmacotherapy interventions aimed at improving patient health outcomes. Additionally, they were responsible for patient medication discharge counseling, ensuring that individuals leaving the hospital had a clear understanding of their prescriptions, possible side effects, and adherence strategies. These critical responsibilities provided them with hands-on experience in bridging the gap between clinical decision-making and patient-centered care, further enhancing their professional growth.
Beyond hospital-based training, Ms. Ruba and Mr. Ibrahim were given the opportunity to visit multiple hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies across the Emirates. These site visits provided valuable insights into the structure and operational workflow of the UAE healthcare system, allowing them to compare and contrast it with their experiences in the U.S. They gained a deeper understanding of the policies, regulations, and best practices in the region, which will be instrumental in shaping their future careers in pharmacy and healthcare administration.
Meanwhile, GMU PharmD student Ms. Rawan is set to embark on an exciting academic exchange program at the University of Iowa. This collaboration between GMU and Iowa strengthens international ties and offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in different healthcare systems, broadening their knowledge and clinical expertise. The exchange program fosters cultural exchange and professional networking, as students from both institutions engage in discussions, share experiences, and build lasting connections. The recent interactions between GMU and Iowa students proved to be an enriching experience, allowing them to learn from each other and establish friendships that extend beyond the academic realm.