UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MINDANAO

COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
Kabacan, Cotabato

END OF ROTATION REFLECTION

Name of Student: Harry John L. Zapanta

1. What are your insights from the rotation? What did you achieve?

I have been genuinely looking forward to this rotation, and despite knowing how demanding major
rotations can be, I felt excited and motivated from the start. My overall insight from this rotation is that it was a
truly meaningful and enriching experience. Community Medicine offered a different perspective on patient care
one that is holistic, patient-centered, and deeply rooted in service.

During this rotation, I was able to enhance my skills in basic history taking and physical examination, particularly
in the outpatient department (OPD) setting. I learned how to approach patients efficiently yet compassionately,
perform proper assessments, and formulate initial diagnoses and management plans. I also gained hands-on
experience in understanding the proper workflow of the Animal Bite Center, including patient categorization, risk
assessment, and familiarity with the vaccines used in treatment and prevention.

One of the most valuable aspects of this rotation was exposure to the 24/7 birthing center at RHU Tulunan.
Coming from an intensive and challenging Obstetrics rotation at CRMC, I felt confident and capable in assisting
and managing normal deliveries. This experience reinforced my clinical skills and strengthened my confidence in
handling maternal cases in a community setting.

I am deeply grateful to the doctors of RHU Tulunan for their guidance and mentorship. Under the leadership of Dr.
Perez, our Municipal Health Officer, Dr. Defensor, our DTTB, and our ever-supportive educator Dr. Garampiel
who has been with us since day one our learning experience was structured, guided, and encouraging. I am also
thankful to Dr. Silvestre, our newly licensed physician, who generously shared insights on clinical trends and
approaches relevant to the Physician Licensure Examination.

In terms of achievements, this rotation greatly improved my confidence and competence in patient interaction. I
was able to perform more thorough and organized history taking, provide accurate initial assessments, and write
appropriate prescriptions based on my diagnoses. I also became familiar with the operational flow of both the
Animal Bite Center and the birthing facility.

Beyond clinical skills, I developed greater confidence in public speaking, leadership, and teamwork. I learned to
communicate effectively with patients, staff, and my fellow groupmates, while fostering patience, camaraderie,
and professionalism in a community healthcare setting.

Overall, Community Medicine truly left a lasting impact on me. It is a rotation that highlights the essence of being
a doctor service, compassion, and continuity of care and it has earned a special place in my heart.

2. Tell us about your best experience and which one is the most fulfilling?

My best experience in RHU Tulunan was being entrusted with outpatient department (OPD) consultations. Being
given the opportunity to independently assess patients and endorse their cases with little to no correction greatly
boosted my confidence and validated the clinical skills I have developed. This trust allowed me to grow not only
in clinical decision-making but also in communicating effectively with patients and the healthcare team.

The most fulfilling aspect of this rotation, however, was being surrounded by genuinely supportive and inspiring
people. From the doctors and mentors who guided us, to the ever-helpful and accommodating staff, and especially
my groupmates, the environment at RHU Tulunan fostered teamwork, encouragement, and mutual respect. This
positive working atmosphere made every duty more meaningful and reinforced my appreciation for community-
based healthcare.

Overall, the combination of professional trust and a strong support system made my experience in RHU Tulunan
both memorable and deeply fulfilling.

3. What activities and/or areas that you think need improvement? Can you cite the reason(s) why? Please
provide recommendation(s).

One area that I believe needs improvement is the handwashing facility in the outpatient department (OPD).
Proper hand hygiene is essential in preventing the spread of infectious and contagious diseases, especially in a
setting where a large number of patients are seen daily. Limited or inadequate handwashing areas may increase
the risk of contamination for both healthcare workers and patients.

In addition, the waiting area for patients could be improved by providing more tents and chairs. During busy clinic
days, some patients are required to wait for extended periods, and having sufficient seating and shaded areas
would greatly enhance patient comfort and overall clinic flow.

To address these concerns, I recommend improving and maintaining accessible handwashing stations within the
OPD area to promote strict infection control practices. Additionally, allocating more tents and chairs in the
waiting area would help ensure a more comfortable and patient-friendly environment, particularly for elderly
patients, children, and those with medical conditions.

4. What do you think are the limitations that hindered you from achieving the objective(s) of the rotation?

For me, there were no significant limitations that hindered the achievement of my objectives and duties
during the Community Medicine rotation at RHU Tulunan. Despite the inherent challenges that come with
community-based practice, I was able to adapt well to the setting and meet the expectations of the rotation.

The supportive environment played a major role in this. The guidance of our doctors and mentors, the cooperation
of the healthcare staff, and the teamwork among my groupmates allowed me to function efficiently and
confidently. Clear workflows, proper supervision, and a conducive learning atmosphere ensured that I was able to
perform my responsibilities and maximize learning opportunities.

Overall, the rotation provided ample exposure and hands-on experience without any major obstacles. This allowed
me to fully engage in patient care, community activities, and clinical learning, making the rotation both productive
and fulfilling.