David Reynoso Cortez, MD: Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, Family Medicine– PGY-2

Ecuador: February 2026

I had an incredible experience with a global health elective based in Ecuador. Over the course of the month, I rotated through an NGO hospital, a public outpatient specialty center, an integrative medicine clinic, and a private hospital, gaining exposure to diverse models of healthcare delivery in Ecuador.

My clinical role evolved across each setting. I worked alongside a radiologist performing ultrasounds, including fetal anatomy scans, which was an especially meaningful hands-on experience. I also joined a family medicine physician for clinics and home visits, where I helped gather histories, perform exams, and think through assessment and plans. Visiting patients in their homes and assisted living facilities deepened my understanding of managing complex chronic conditions with limited resources available to them.

In Otavalo, I spent time at Clinica Jambi Huasi learning from parteras and traditional healers, where I was introduced to herbal/botanical medicine, spiritual healing practices, and even began learning basic Kichwa. I was able to apply this knowledge when we evaluated a patient with suspected parasitic gastroenteritis. In addition to standard anthelmintic therapy, I recommended mint, as menthol can relax intestinal smooth muscle to relieve cramping, and oregano, which contains compounds such as carvacrol and thymol that have antimicrobial properties. Seeing these approaches used together highlighted a thoughtful integration of traditional and evidence-informed care.

Across all settings, I was inspired by the resilience of Ecuadorian clinicians working within resource limitations. This experience strengthened my clinical skills, broadened my perspective, and deepened my commitment to equitable, culturally responsive healthcare.