The DaMDamin: Rural Community Medicine Fellowship Program is an initiative by the Rosita G. Leong Primary Health Care Hub (RGL Hub) in collaboration with the Philippine Foundation for Equity in Health (PFEH). It builds upon the success of previous rural immersion programs and seeks to strengthen the formation of medical students and young physicians as future health leaders.

Objectives:

1. Develop a Network of Future Health Leaders – Identify and nurture medical students and young physicians committed to health equity and universal health care.
2. Provide Experiential Learning in Local Health Systems – Implement immersive experiences to deepen participants' understanding of primary healthcare challenges.
3. Increase Knowledge on Health Equity and UHC – Engage participants in discussions and hands-on activities that highlight systemic healthcare issues and solutions.

Key Activities:

1. Pre-deployment Orientation: A two-day preparatory workshop covering foundational health system concepts, primary care principles, and stakeholder engagement strategies.
2. 10-Day Immersion Program: Participants are assigned to rural health units (RHUs), hospitals, and community settings in Northern Samar and Surigao del Norte, where they:

a. Observe and assist in local health service delivery.
b. Participate in community consultations and local health programs.
c. Engage with local chief executives and municipal health officers.

3. Post-deployment Reflection and Processing: A structured debriefing session that encourages participants to reflect on their experiences and consolidate key learnings.

Expected Outcomes:

1. Strengthened awareness and advocacy among medical students for primary healthcare and health equity.
2. Increased interest and engagement in rural health service among young physicians.
3. Creation of a sustained mentorship network connecting participants with experienced healthcare professionals and policymakers.
4. Enhanced stakeholder partnerships with local government units and healthcare institutions to foster long-term improvements in primary healthcare delivery.

The DaMDamin Fellowship Program aims to develop future healthcare leaders equipped with the knowledge, empathy, and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the country’s pursuit of Universal Health Care (UHC) and a more equitable health system.