COMMUNITY & FAMILY MEDICINE IV REFLECTION PAPER – CLERKSHIP

Manguiat, Karl Matthew J. Dra. Antonia Yamamoto

4th year – LPU St. Cabrini 10/06/2023

“Journey of Compassion and Growth: My Experience in the Community as a Medical Clerk”

My journey in community medicine has been a transformative and enlightening experience. Over the past
one month, I have had the privilege of working in the Pantay Bata community healthcare settings,
witnessing the profound influence of social determinants on health, and learning valuable lessons that
have reshaped my perspective on healthcare. In this reflection paper, I will share my experiences,
challenges, personal growth, and the broader implications of community medicine on both individual and
community well-being.

During my time in community medicine, I encountered a diverse range of healthcare scenarios. From
volunteering at a local clinic to participating in health education initiatives, every encounter was a unique
learning opportunity for me. I vividly recall my interactions with patients from underserved communities,
each interaction revealing the intricate web of factors that influence health outcomes. One particular
memory that stands out is my involvement in the vaccination drive for the community and house-to-house
check-up consultation that served the rural areas in Pantay Bata with limited access to healthcare
facilities. The grateful smiles on the faces of family members as we provided basic medical services
underscored the significance of our work as a medical clerk. Additionally, I observed firsthand the
challenges of healthcare disparities, as many patients struggled with chronic illnesses that could have
been prevented with better access to healthcare and education.

The journey in community medicine was not without its

challenges. Throughout my community medicine journey, I
encountered numerous challenges: Language barriers, limited
resources, and cultural differences sometimes made
communication and patient care difficult. These challenges
forced me to adapt and find creative solutions to help. I
learned to rely on non-verbal communication and work
closely with barangay healthcare workers to bridge the gap.

My experience in community medicine has profoundly influenced my personal growth. It forced me to

confront my biases and notions about healthcare. I learned to listen more attentively to patients' stories,
recognizing the importance of empathy in providing holistic care. This experience has also reinforced my
belief in the importance of cultural competence and humility in healthcare. Engaging with diverse
communities has taught me the value of cultural sensitivity and the need to tailor healthcare interventions
to meet the unique needs of each community.

Professionally, this journey has equipped me with invaluable skills. My communication skills have
significantly improved as I learned to adapt my approach to various cultural backgrounds and
socioeconomic statuses. Additionally, I honed my ability to work collaboratively with the barangay
healthcare work in providing holistic care to the patient.

My experience in community medicine has left me with several profound lessons. Firstly, it highlighted
the importance of addressing social determinants of health, such as access to education, housing, and
employment, to improve overall health outcomes. Secondly, it emphasized the significance of cultural
competence and the need to tailor healthcare services to the unique needs of diverse populations. Lastly, it
reinforced my belief that healthcare is not just about treating illness but also about promoting wellness
and prevention.
 COMMUNITY & FAMILY MEDICINE IV REFLECTION PAPER – CLERKSHIP
Manguiat, Karl Matthew J. Dra. Antonia Yamamoto
4th year – LPU St. Cabrini 10/06/2023

My journey in community medicine has been an eye-opening adventure, revealing the complexities and
challenges of healthcare at the community level. It has been a catalyst for personal and professional
growth, shaping my identity as a healthcare provider who is committed to equitable healthcare access and
holistic patient care. As I move forward in my career, I am determined to continue advocating for the
underserved and using my skills to contribute positively to the health and well-being of communities in
need.