Group photo in front of hospital

Twenty physical therapy students and accompanying faculty members visited two hospitals in China last month for mutual learning and exchange of perspectives on rehabilitation.

The trip from September 3-17 took the group to Peking University International Hospital in Beijing and Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province.

Wesley Swen, DPT, an associate professor of physical therapy at Loma Linda University’s School of Allied Health Professions, along with Kristel Zuppan, DPT, an adjunct professor at LLU, delivered lectures that introduced the Doctor of Physical Therapy education model in the United States, principles of evidence-based rehabilitation, emerging rehabilitation technologies, and contemporary teaching methods. 

Representatives from both institutions engaged in extensive discussions regarding rehabilitation subspecialty development, professional education, clinical diagnosis and treatment, research, and the integration of teaching and clinical practice. 

Under the supervision of Drs. Swen and Zuppan, the students performed evidence-based treatments to both orthopedic and neurologic patients at two different PUIH hospitals.

The delegation subsequently visited the inpatient wards and rehabilitation center to observe clinical workflows and gain hands-on experience with a variety of rehabilitation technologies and equipment. 

Faculty members and students from both institutions also celebrated World Physical Therapy Day on September 8.

At Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, the delegation learned about the historic collaboration with Loma Linda University Health and how the hospital has served its local community.

The trip is one of many types of cultural exchange and mission trip opportunities for students at Loma Linda University. 

“I am incredibly proud of our students who step beyond familiar surroundings to learn, serve, and connect with people around the world. International experiences like this remind us that healthcare is not only about developing clinical excellence, but also about cultivating compassion, humility, cultural understanding, and a commitment to service,” said Craig R. Jackson, JD, MSW, dean of the School of Allied Health Professions. “Our students represent the very best of Loma Linda University when they use their education to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ wherever they are called to serve.”