Tbilisi State Medical University Faculty of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation students: Mariam Begeladze, Elizabeth Dzvelaya, Nika Bejuashvili, Megi Sharia, Ana Telidze, Ana Abuashvili, Albert Somkhishvili, Mariami Chitaia, Anna Turashvili, and Nino Zabakhidze participated in a summer internship program in Sofia, Bulgaria. The students completed a one-month internship at the "Queen Joanna University Hospital" and the "Specialized National Clinic for Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation" in Bulgaria.

The TSMU students assessed the internship as highly productive, giving them the opportunity to enrich their theoretical knowledge with practical skills and clinical experience gained at the hospital.

“It was fascinating to observe the host country's approaches in the field of rehabilitation. On a daily basis, we participated in clinical activities: we attended patient examinations, contributed to the assessment of patient conditions and under the supervision of our mentors, had the opportunity to perform various medical-rehabilitation procedures," noted the TSMU students.

The students highlighted, the physicians of the clinic shared invaluable knowledge and experience concerning different approaches to patient care and the recovery process.

"From 8 to 11 a.m., we worked in the Physiotherapy Department, where we independently conducted various medical procedures using physical modalities. Afterward, we proceeded to the Intensive Care Unit, where, under the supervision of a mentor, we led patient rehabilitation exercises. We learned to observe physical symptoms and to focus on the emotional and psychological aspects of a patient's recovery. Additionally, we became acquainted with the complexities of creating personalized rehabilitation plans.

Moreover, we had the opportunity to communicate with professionals who warmly welcomed us into their team, providing us with professional knowledge and guidance. We strongly encourage students to seize the opportunity for internships, as it significantly enhances growth on both professional and personal levels," the students remarked.

In their evaluation, the internship was an excellent way to apply theoretical knowledge in practice. As the students noted, the chance to collaborate with experienced professionals in a clinical setting increased their level of knowledge and motivation to take further steps in the healthcare field.