Beyond logistics : Intercultural dimensions of hosting visiting medical students in the Dominican Republic

Abstract

This reflection explores the intercultural dimensions of hosting visiting medical students in the Dominican Republic from the perspective of local program coordination. While often perceived as primarily logistical, coordinating international exchanges involves navigating complex cultural, linguistic, and interpersonal dynamics that significantly shape students’ experiences. This perspective highlights key aspects of student adaptation, including language barriers in clinical settings, differences in communication styles within a high-context culture, and exposure to unfamiliar clinical practices and healthcare systems. Particular attention is given to the role of institutional support, host families, and campus integration in fostering a sense of belonging and facilitating intercultural competence. The letter also emphasizes the often invisible role of coordinators in bridging communication gaps, managing expectations, and creating structured support systems that enable effective collaboration between students, healthcare providers, and host communities. Additionally, it acknowledges the reciprocal nature of these exchanges, where institutions and coordinators also benefit from students’ perspectives and feedback. Ultimately, this reflection underscores that global health education extends beyond clinical training and is rooted in meaningful intercultural engagement. Experiences such as these contribute to the development of adaptable, empathetic, and culturally competent healthcare professionals prepared to work in diverse global contexts.