Noemi Angela Nucera

I was inspired to undertake an overseas placement because I wanted to broaden my clinical and cultural understanding of physiotherapy. Choosing Iloilo was an opportunity to experience a different healthcare system, as well as to understand how culture influences care, and to develop myself professionally and personally by adapting to a new environment.

My first impression of the placement hospital was that it was a welcoming and supportive environment. I was impressed by the staff’s dedication, the strong teamwork and how effectively they worked together despite limited resources. It was a great environment for learning.

I improved my treatment and communication skills during my placement, particularly in musculoskeletal and neurological cases, including the use of electrical stimulation, functional electrical stimulation, and ultrasound. I also gained confidence in communicating in another language and clinical reasoning with limited resources.

The placement improved my adaptability, clinical skills, and cultural understanding, making me a more confident and flexible physiotherapy student.

One of the most memorable cases I was involved in was a stroke patient who had left-sided weakness. Seeing their progress through regular therapy was incredibly rewarding. I learned a great deal about neurological rehabilitation, patient motivation, and how to adapt treatments in resource-limited settings.

Healthcare in the Philippines has fewer resources and less advanced equipment in comparison to the UK. Despite this, the staff were highly dedicated and employed creative approaches to provide patient-centred care that met the local community’s needs. 

Outside of my placement, during the evenings and weekends, my housemates and I enjoyed exploring local food, visiting the market, and travelling a lot during the weekends. It was such an amazing experience! Love it!

To other students considering a Work the World placement, I’d say be open to learning, ask questions, and embrace challenges — they will help you grow!

Take all the opportunities and don’t be scared!