With support from the Phyllis Krumm Memorial International Scholarship, Amanda Swanson, a pediatric dental resident in The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, traveled to England to further her professional interest in caring for children with rare diseases, as well as to learn about pediatric dentistry in the United Kingdom.
"By attending and presenting at the International Conference for Ectodermal Dysplasias (ICED25) in Birmingham, I had the unique opportunity to connect with a global group of rare disease experts as well as conduct a small research project building on my work here at Ohio State," Swanson explained. "By speaking on an international stage, collaborating with global experts and trainees alike, and returning to share insight gained with my Ohio State colleagues, this experience was truly a pivotal career development opportunity."
Swanson visited the dental department at St. Thomas Hospital in London after the conference. She also spent time observing treatment and engaging in collaborative case discussions with colleagues at the Newcastle University School of Dental Sciences.
"Overall, this experience opened my mind to alternative dental treatment approaches and collaborative specialist networks which are commonly used in the U.K. I gained an appreciation for benefits and challenges of our healthcare system here in the United States, and a more nuanced understanding of the role that health systems delivery occupies in the multidisciplinary management of complex diseases," Swanson reflected.
"I am excited to continue collaborating internationally to improve care for those with rare diseases, and truly appreciate the support of this award to make these travels possible."