Author: Josie Stadler | Major: Communication Sciences and Disorders | Semester: Summer 2024
This is me at Jonkoping University in front of where we attended classes.
I studied abroad in Sweden to gain a deeper understanding of their healthcare system. As a future healthcare worker, I was particularly interested in Sweden’s approach to universal healthcare and their impressive healthcare statistics. Sweden is known for its high-quality healthcare system, and I wanted to learn firsthand how it operates and what specifically makes it successful. My interest in Sweden was sparked by its reputation for having one of the best healthcare systems in the world. I was intrigued by how Sweden manages to provide comprehensive care through a universal healthcare system funded by taxes. Additionally, I wanted to gain insight on the interdisciplinary models used in Swedish healthcare, as I believe they could offer valuable insights for improving patient care and outcomes. I spent three weeks in Sweden during the summer. This intensive program allowed me to immerse myself in the Swedish healthcare system and gain a substantial amount of knowledge in a relatively brief period.
Before heading to Sweden, we visited several private and public clinics in Arkansas to observe and understand the healthcare practices and challenges in the United States. This provided a baseline for comparing the two healthcare systems. In Sweden, I participated in various academic and practical experiences that significantly enriched my understanding of their healthcare system. As a study abroad group, we attended lectures and seminars that covered the pros and cons of universal healthcare, with a particular focus on how it is funded through insurance and taxes. These sessions provided a comprehensive overview of the system’s strengths and challenges. We visited both private and public healthcare clinics in Sweden. Swedish clinics emphasized preventative care, focusing on maintaining health and preventing disease rather than merely reacting to health issues as they arise. This proactive approach was evident in the thorough and attentive way healthcare professionals engaged with patients.
One of the highlights of my experience was visiting a local nursing home. At this facility, I observed the interdisciplinary models in action, witnessing how different healthcare professionals collaborated to provide holistic care. The level of personalization and attentiveness shown by the staff, especially in the dementia unit, was particularly impressive. They were incredibly personable with the patients, demonstrating a deep commitment to their well-being and dignity.
We went on an 11 mile bike ride on an island.
As well as a highlight, a moment that stands out was our visit to the dementia unit in the nursing home. Seeing the staff interact with the patients with such compassion and patience was moving. They knew each patient personally, understanding their individual needs and preferences, which highlighted the importance of personalized care in improving the quality of life for dementia patients. Another memorable experience was participating in active learning environments and discussions with Swedish students. Engaging with them provided valuable insights into the benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare. Learning how different professionals work together to provide comprehensive care reinforced the value of teamwork and communication in achieving better health outcomes. It was inspiring to see how these collaborative practices could be applied in various healthcare settings.
Academically, the trip was incredibly enriching. The lectures and seminars provided a solid theoretical foundation on universal healthcare and interdisciplinary models, while the practical experiences, such as the clinic visits and the nursing home visit, offered real-world insights into these concepts. The program emphasized the importance of both the economic and human aspects of healthcare, giving me a well-rounded understanding of the Swedish healthcare system.
Overall, my study abroad experience in Sweden was invaluable. It deepened my knowledge of healthcare systems, demonstrated the benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration, and highlighted the importance of personalized and preventative care. These insights, combined with the comparative perspective gained from visiting private and public clinics in Arkansas, will influence my future career in healthcare.
Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can profoundly impact your worldview. It is a life-changing opportunity to learn outside the classroom and way beyond one’s comfort zone. To make the most of this experience, it’s important to be open-minded and eager to learn. I would suggest one to embrace the differences encountered and be willing to adapt. Planning and staying organized is crucial. Ensure all your travel documents, such as your passport, and any required health documents, are in order well in advance.