CFHI Cape Coast Clinical Track

My five weeks in Cape Coast, Ghana with CFHI was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. I was part of the Clinical Track and spent my time shadowing in the surgery and neurosurgery departments at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital. From the very first day, I was welcomed by the healthcare team and made to feel like part of the hospital community. I spent most of my time observing surgeries, sitting in on ward rounds, and learning how physicians navigate complex cases in a system with limited resources. What stood out to me was how willing the house officers were to engage with me. They explained procedures, answered my questions, and shared their own experiences working in the Ghanaian healthcare system. I was constantly learning, not just about medicine, but about the importance of adaptability, compassion, and teamwork in clinical care. Connecting with patients was another powerful part of my experience. Even though I was just a student shadowing, many patients welcomed me into their space with kindness and openness. These small moments, sharing a conversation or simply being present, taught me a lot about the human side of medicine. Outside the hospital, the CFHI accommodations were safe and comfortable, and living with other students and our local coordinator created a strong sense of community. The local CFHI team was supportive and always made sure we were prepared, both in and out of the clinical setting. Cape Coast itself was an incredible place to live. In our free time, we explored the beaches, hiked through Kakum National Park, and visited the Cape Coast and Elmina Castles, which offered a powerful look into Ghana’s history. We also got to experience Ghanaian culture firsthand, from trying traditional foods to learning local customs and phrases. This program helped me grow both personally and professionally. It gave me real insight into global health, strengthened my interest in surgery, and reminded me of why I chose to pursue medicine in the first place. I'm grateful to CFHI for offering such a thoughtful, immersive experience, and I would absolutely recommend the Cape Coast program to anyone looking to gain clinical exposure.