Genefer Duran, MD: NY Presbyterian- Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, Pediatrics – PGY2

Dominican Republic: January 2026

 With my family coming from the Dominican Republic, it was especially humbling and special for me to go back as a pediatric resident to work alongside my community. Although my time was short, I was able to delve deeper into the pathophysiology of diseases and was reminded of the importance of completing a thorough physical exam. I was able to rely on my own clinical knowledge base and the patient in front of me to determine which next steps should be taken as resources were limited.

  In the United States we rely on specialty services, respiratory machines, and testing to guide our patient care. Being in a resource-poor country these past few weeks gave me an appreciation for our medical system and strengthened my ability to use the limited tools available to guide management. Additionally, I was able to participate in the treatment of patients presenting to the emergency room. Given that some communities in the Dominican Republic cook in traditional wood burning stoves, we often had a myriad of patients with second-third degree burns. I learned about management in real-time and the importance of anticipatory guidance when it comes to cooking safety.

  The lessons and experiences I’ve gathered these past few weeks are ones that I will be implementing into my medical training here in New York. I hope that this is the footprint to establishing a long-term relationship with a country that is very close to my heart.