Faculty-Led Electives

Travel with DGSOM faculty to partnership sites

Faculty-Led Electives in Haiti and Jamaica

As part of these unique clinical experiences, fourth-year medical students travel with DGSOM faculty members who regularly visit the same sites, building upon long-term relationships.

Immersion Experience in Cross Cultural Medicine

Course # FM-FP253.05

The Jamaica elective is a one-week clinical experience at a free clinic in Falmouth, a region 30 miles from Montego Bay, under the supervision of Dr. Bruno Lewin. Students typically receive funding from Dr. Lewin to participate in the elective, although the amount of funding varies by year. Please note that this course is offered for credit and has its own application (separate from our Primary Partner Electives). For more information, please see the course catalog or contact Dr. Lewin at Bruno.J.Lewin@kp.org.

Students participating in the Haiti and Jamaica electives are encouraged to attend the Global Health Program's annual pre-departure orientation program in February. Students participating in the Haiti and Jamaica electives also have access to our 24/7 emergency phone line. 

For more information about these electives, the orientation program, and the 24/7 emergency line, please reach out to Dr. Traci Wells at TWells@mednet.ucla.edu.

Participation requirements

Once approved to participate in the Special Faculty-led Elective in Haiti or Jamaica, students will be asked to complete the following additional participation requirements:

  • Sign up for UC Traveler Security and Health Coverage Benefits - The University of California has arranged for students and employees traveling on official University business to be covered for a variety of accidents and incidents while away from campus or the primary workplace. Please visit the UC Travel Insurance page for details. If your air travel is purchased through UCLA travel, you will automatically be signed up for coverage and will receive a confirmation email at your UCLA email address.
  • Register for the US State Department STEP Program - The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service provided by the U.S. Government to U.S. citizens who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign country. Please visit the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) page for more information and instructions on how to register.
  • Make an appointment at a Travel Clinic - For additional information on travel health and UCLA Travel Clinic resources, please visit the Travel Health & Safety page.