My experience on the Spiti trip, in the sparsely populated and beautiful Himalayan region of Northern India, in June of 2012 with Himalayan Health Exchange was rewarding, eye-opening, and all around incredible. The physicians on the trip taught in a hands-on style that allowed us to practice interacting with patients, learning about diseases common to India, taking histories and physicals, and writing SOAP notes. After sitting in the classroom all year as a first year medical student, the trip re-energized me. I feel that my time in India strengthened my cultural awareness, compassion, and ability to work as a team member. Logistically, HHE is organized, efficient, and was thoroughly prepared the entire trip. I cannot wait to return on another trip as a physician.

Ashley Hock
Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2015
Spiti trip June 2012

I wanted to share with you my feelings regarding the HHE Chang Thang Trip, which took place between the dates of July 16th and August 3rd, 2009. I can say without question that this was a life-changing journey that not only allowed me to develop as a medical student and future physician, but also as a human being. I learned so much during the program, and I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to participate. The communication from you and other HHE staff prior to the trip was amazing, and the organization of the trip itself was impeccable. Never in my life have I made such an impact on so many patients, while making new friends, while enjoying the beauty of the world around me all at the same time! I look forward to participating in HHE in the future, and hope that other students like myself can benefit (both themselves and the people of India) as well. Aristotle once said that "where your talents and the needs of the world cross lies your calling." My experiences in India this past summer have most definitely rejuvinated my passion for medicine and I now look forward more than ever to the road ahead...

Rob Cantor, Indiana University, Class of 2012, Chang Thang 2009

Treating Abroad (an article written by Frederick Davis)

The mission I was part of was to the outer Himalayas in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh. The population of Himachal is just over six million, made up of various cultures including Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Buddhists.We had over 14 camps at seven different sites in the northern province of India. At each site we set up tents that were used to treat patients for medicine, pediatrics, OB/GYN, and dental. . Villagers would come from the local surrounding areas to seek treatment as well as the monks of the monasteries that we set up in. Throughout our time there we saw over 2,500 people. We went to such remote areas in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh that you wondered if cars ever came up here as you climbed steep mountain sides.

My experience with Himalayan Health Exchange was unbelievable. Simply amazing!

The organization was run so well. The history of how the organization came to be is quite fascinating.

Frederick Davis, DO, Participant ‘Outer Himalayas’ 2008

Comparing my experience in Kargiakh with other clinical programs in the developing world, Himalayan Health Exchange is far and away the most organized. At HHE, the dignity and well-being of the patients being treated comes first, as evidenced by organizers encouraging a strong sense of professionalism and a developing real methods for follow-up care. The clinical learning opportunities are many and rich, the lands we visited were beautifully situated at the top of the world, and the fond memories I have – even 2 years after completing the program – powerfully affect my life today.

Erik Stoltenberg, MS4, University of Chicago (USA), Kargiakh 2005

My experience in Ladakh was a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity, though I would prefer to think of it as the inspiring first step on an exciting, lifetime journey in international health. The HHE team took amazing care of all of us participants in terms of our health and comfort. The clinical aspect was on par with a rigorous Canadian placement, and the cultural and recreational opportunities were ample. Thank you, Himalayan Health, for an amazing and enlightening experience in India!

Bonnie Larson, Medical Student 1, McMaster Univ - Canada - Chang Thang Ladakh 2004