Visiting our Netherlands PA colleagues in Nijmegen has been a culmination of a seven-year exchange that has forged lasting connections and deepened our understanding of international physician assistant (PA) programs. As we embarked on this long-awaited trip, excitement mingled with anticipation, knowing that we were about to witness firsthand the unique aspects of the Dutch healthcare system and education. Our objective was clear: to learn, collaborate, and foster long-term partnerships between our institutions.
The roots of this exchange can be traced back to 2017 when the HAN University of Applied Sciences in Nijmegen first visited the University of Utah's Utah Physician Assistant Program (UPAP). Since then, we have shared knowledge and experiences through subsequent visits in 2022 and virtual exchanges during the challenging times of the pandemic. This ongoing exchange has been instrumental in building bridges between US and European PAs, nurturing a sense of camaraderie and mutual growth.
Our journey began with a warm welcome from our Dutch counterparts. The three PA faculty from UPAP in Salt Lake City met with Geert van den Brink and two faculty members from the Netherlands where we were welcomed by a home-cooked meal outside in his yard. Surrounded by his beautiful gardens and his natural growing roof we marveled at the beauty of nature and the opportunity it provided for cultural exchange and bonding.
Throughout our stay, we engaged in a myriad of activities designed to enhance our understanding of the Dutch PA program and its nuances. The Dutch faculty delivered a captivating presentation, offering us a glimpse into a typical day in their lives as PA students in the Netherlands. Their insights into their curriculum, clinical experiences, and the challenges they face further enriched our understanding of the field.
One of the highlights of our visit was attending their peer and faculty small group teaching session going over their master projects alongside our Dutch peers. This provided a platform for us to exchange ideas, discuss teaching methodologies, and explore innovative approaches to healthcare education. We were struck by the diversity of perspectives and the passion shared by educators from both countries, as we collectively worked towards advancing the PA profession.
Moreover, we had the privilege of joining some of the PA students in their rotations. This immersive experience allowed us to practice and refine essential clinical skills alongside our Dutch colleagues. Through collaborative learning, we gained valuable insights into different approaches to patient care and expanded our clinical repertoire.
A visit to the hospital and a long-term care facility with some of their PA students granted us a unique opportunity to witness interactive teaching in action. We observed the dynamic interactions between PA students and their mentors, realizing the power of a hands-on approach in fostering comprehensive learning. It was inspiring to witness the dedication and passion exhibited by both students and faculty alike.
As we toured the hospital, memories of the Dutch PA students who had visited us in Salt Lake City the previous year came flooding back. Seeing familiar faces and witnessing their growth since their visit evoked a sense of pride and reinforced the significance of this exchange program. The reciprocity and continuity of learning between our institutions served as a testament to the enduring bonds we have forged.
Our trip to visit our Netherlands PA colleagues has been an enriching and transformative experience. It has broadened our horizons, deepening our understanding of global healthcare and education. Through classroom observations, interactive teaching sessions, and immersive experiences in healthcare settings, we have gained invaluable knowledge and insights that will shape our future practices as PAs.
Beyond the professional growth, this exchange has fostered lasting friendships and cultural understanding. The bonds we have formed with our Dutch counterparts extend beyond the confines of the classroom or hospital walls. We have shared meals, laughter, and stories, discovering the similarities and differences in our cultures. These personal connections have made the exchange even more meaningful, as we realize that despite our geographical distances, we are united by our shared passion for healthcare and commitment to providing quality patient care.
During our visit to Nijmegen, we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Netherlands. One memorable experience was our visit to the Freedom Museum, where we delved into the country's dark WW2 history (“A Bridge Too Far” was in Nijmegen)and learned about the struggles and triumphs that shaped it. Exploring the exhibits and hearing stories of resilience and determination reminded us of the importance of freedom and the sacrifices made to preserve it. The museum served as a poignant reminder of the shared values that unite us across borders.
Another highlight of our trip was bicycling around De Hoge, a beautiful national park that provided a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. As we pedaled along the scenic paths, we were surrounded by the natural beauty that inspired renowned artist Vincent van Gogh. Our cycling adventure led us to a museum with many of his works, allowing us to appreciate firsthand the masterpieces that continue to captivate the world.
As we bid farewell to Nijmegen, we eagerly look forward to reciprocating the hospitality and warmth we experienced in the Netherlands.
In conclusion, my trip to visit our Netherlands PA colleagues in Nijmegen has been a transformative experience that has exceeded all expectations. It has been a journey of discovery, learning, and friendship. Through observing classes, participating in interactive teaching, and exploring healthcare facilities, we have gained a deeper understanding of the Dutch PA program and have broadened our horizons as future healthcare providers.
We are grateful for the lasting connections we have established, the knowledge we have gained, and the memories we have created. This exchange has not only enhanced our professional growth but has also enriched our lives on a personal level. We eagerly anticipate the next chapter of this collaboration, as we prepare to welcome our Dutch colleagues to our home institution and continue our shared pursuit of excellence in healthcare education and practice.
by Jennifer Coombs, PA-C, MPAS, PhD