Doctors from the Philippines take part in diabetes training program at the University’s 2nd Department of Internal Medicine

Doctors from the Philippines had the chance to take part in a short-term professional training program, organized for the third time by Semmelweis University’s Directorate of International Relations, in collaboration with Proxymm Science from Singapore, at the 2nd Department of Internal Medicine. The training program was held on the topic of diabetes.

Proxymm Science offers unique education and training services for doctors, pharmacists and other health professionals in Asia. The organization has been partnering with Semmelweis University for two years now, and medical groups from Asia have visited the University three times: In May 2018, the first training program was organized for doctors from the Philippines at the 2^nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and in September 2018, three cycles of 60 internists, endocrinologists, cardiologists and nephrologists received training at the 2^nd Department of Internal Medicine.

In light of the success of the previous cooperation, between February and April 2019, nearly 120 doctors from the Philippines attended short-term professional training courses in six cycles at the 2^nd Department of Internal Medicine.

Within the framework of the professional program, the participants received a comprehensive overview of the Hungarian health care system, Semmelweis University and the activities of the department, and attended a professional lecture, which was organized by Dr. Anikó Somogyi on behalf of Dr. Péter Igaz, Director of the Department. In the first week, the lecture was given by Dr. Beatrix Sármán, university lecturer, on diabetes and new possibilities of treatment at different stages of life, while in the second week Dr. Géza Nagy, university assistant professor, spoke about chronic kidney diseases associated with diabetes.

Participants had extremely positive feedback regarding the program. According to them, the knowledge acquired through their training will be of great help in their clinical work. What participants found particularly interesting were the observable differences between Hungarian and Asian care practices, knowledge of the treatment of diabetic patients with cardiovascular problems, as well as the latest drugs used in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus, including inhaled insulin therapy. They also appreciated the preparedness of the presenters and the organization of the program, and would be happy to recommend the training program to their fellow colleagues.

The University has already received another request for similar courses, which confirms the positive experiences so far, and highlights the significant need for short-term professional training programs organized by Semmelweis University for medical professionals from the Asian region.