My Learning Experience in the Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine

Dr Lee Poh Ching

Ob-gyn Malaysia, Reproductive Medicine

Fellow in Subspecialty Training PAG

Choosing China for my subspecialty fellowship has always been my wish. With the increasing number of countries sending their students to study here, it has become an even more popular destination for overseas fellows. I had the honor of sharing my experience and revelations at the Children’s Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine (ZCH), which serves more than 4 million patients and provides multidisciplinary consultations to over 1,800 children annually. Being attached to this growing and renowned PAG center in China and the world was an excellent pleasure. I am grateful for my childhood learning of Mandarin, which helped me to indulge more in this learning atmosphere. My journey began in December 2023, where I was immersed in clinical experience under my supervisor, Dr. Sun Liying, Director of Pediatric Adolescent Gynecology Department of ZCH and helpful team members for nearly three months.

Upon arrival, the team welcomed me warmly, with accommodations prepared well beforehand, which touched me deeply. The thoughtfulness and hospitality posed were first-hand. After meeting Dr. Sun, an excellent, patient, and wonderful teacher, she selflessly shared her years of clinical skills and outstanding team members who made my journey incredible. A picture is worth a thousand words, describing my learning experience.

At ZCH, I had the opportunity to meet doctors from various specialties, broadening my view and experience. Joining the "Specialty Excellence" project with Boston Children's Hospital was a golden opportunity to experience a heated case-based discussion across the nation's boundaries with a targeted aim of reaching better patient care.

I had the incredible opportunity to learn from the MDT Multidisciplinary Team in Disorder of Sex Development. Through this experience, I gained knowledge on how to effectively manage rare DSD patients. The team consisted of experts in psychosocial care, pediatric endocrinology, pediatric gynecology, pediatric surgery, and genetics. Witnessing their collaborative strength and ability to offer the best opinions for patients' dilemmas was truly inspiring. They were a cohesive unit that was unbreakable.

In the realm of illness-bound children-related cancer, the healthcare team's considerations extended far beyond the children's welfare. Through joint efforts between the oncology, surgical, radiology, and pathology teams, the care and support provided to the patients' families was just as important. During my visit, I witnessed a sponsored accommodation place for chronically ill patients' families. It was heartwarming to see the support and care being provided to those in need.

I was grateful to have the opportunity to share my experiences with Pediatric Adolescent Gynecology Training (PAG) in Malaysia and discuss about FIJIG, an internationally recognized PAG federation. During my presentation, I was thrilled to receive insightful opinions from my colleagues, which allowed me to gain valuable clinical perspectives. It was an honor to have my voice heard and to work alongside supportive and encouraging colleagues. Additionally, Dr. Sun invited external PAG experts to share their perspectives. It was inspiring to see how these insights will be integrated into the practice.

I also went on a trip to Suzhou with my new colleagues to join the FD/MAS (McCune Albright Syndrome) patient association discussion. This was my first exposure to significant, supportive communities that always keep a solid heart for all challenges and make every move valuable.

Enrolling in the Chinese Panorama was an unforgettable experience that allowed me to immerse myself in Chinese culture. From visiting the Leifeng pagoda and the famous West Lake in Hangzhou to celebrating the New Year Celebration, Spring festival, and various occasions, I had the opportunity to experience Chinese hospitality firsthand. Joining my friends' family for lunch was a particularly memorable moment.

As a working professional, becoming a student again was a delightful experience that provided me with not only a new spectrum of clinical experience but also valuable life value. I met many great friends, and the relationships and moments we shared will last a lifetime. This short attachment made me realize that there is so much to learn, and I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to share my thoughts and passions with others. My study experience here has already greatly helped my clinical practice, providing me with a new spectrum of precious experiences that will stay with me forever.

Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. Sun Liying, her inspiring team members, and all my incredible friends at ZCH for being a part of my life and for making me a better person than I was yesterday.