One Health Fellowship
In collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Health, the Doctors in Italy Fellowship program offers a select group of students the opportunity to spend two weeks in prestigious hospitals and animal rescue centers in Italy, where they can observe doctors and veterinarians during the summer or winter break.
The One Health Fellowship aims to break down barriers and train professionals who value collaboration between health and science disciplines. Participants gain hands-on experience beyond their own field, build connections with peers from other areas, and learn the importance of teamwork in addressing shared challenges.
Step into the interconnected world of medicine, where the well-being of humans and non-human animals is deeply intertwined.
- Comprehensive understanding of healthcare
- Public health and human-animal interactions
- Animal behavior and inter-species interactions
Program Structure
The One Health Fellowship combines experiences in human healthcare, veterinary medicine, environmental health, and conservation.
The first week is dedicated mostly to human medicine, with 20 hours of clinical shadowing at Careggi Hospital. Friday is dedicated to the topics of conservation, wildlife rescue, and environmental health.
The second week focuses on animal health, working alongside veterinarians and animal rescue specialists in different settings.
Shadowing at the Hospital
The program includes a broad variety of shadowing options, covering both surgical and medical areas at Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Careggi. Founded in the 14th century, the hospital has played a significant role in the development of medicine over the centuries. The hospital’s historical significance makes it a fascinating place to learn about the evolution of medical practice.
Careggi Hospital has undergone numerous renovations and expansions over the years, and today it is a modern facility with state-of-the-art medical equipment and technology. The hospital is known for its comprehensive range of medical services, and is home to one of the largest and most advanced emergency departments in the region. In addition, the hospital is also a major research and teaching center. It is affiliated with the University of Florence, and many of its doctors are also professors at the university. Its excellent reputation has not gone unnoticed, as it was ranked as one of the 250 best hospitals in the world by Newsweek, a testament to the exceptional level of care provided by the hospital.
Shadowing Veterinarians at Rescues and Sanctuaries
In terms of veterinary medicine exposure, you will enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience, engaging with a wide variety of rescued animals and gaining valuable insights into their care and rehabilitation. At the heart of this journey is the Italian Horse Protection nestled in the picturesque Tuscan village of Montaione where you will fully immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of equids. Ohana rescue will share the stories and treatments of its 220 farm animals while Oasi Lipu Massaciuccoli natural park and clinic will delve you into the world of migratory birds, wildlife first aid. Engaging in additional museum-related activities and participating in conservation projects will further enhance your comprehension of biodiversity and research.
In addition to the veterinarian shadowing, you will have a chance to visit the world renowned La Specola Museum where you’ll be guided through an immersive experience of human anatomy, comparative anatomy, and zoology.
Housing in Florence
Our housing options ensure a comfortable and secure stay during the program. You may stay in apartments, hotels, or other comfortable accommodations, all guaranteed to be clean and safe.
Most commonly, participants stay in shared apartments with double rooms, equipped with amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and even kitchens and living rooms.
These accommodations are in central and safe areas of Florence, close to essential facilities. While housing quality may vary, we carefully select providers to maintain high standards of safety, cleanliness, and comfort.
Your stay will allow you to fully immerse in the study abroad experience while enjoying a convenient and pleasant living space.
Included with the fees
Shadowing ≈ 20 hours per week
Workshops and seminars
Accommodation
Airport pick-up and check-in upon arrival
Daily breakfast plus 9 meals (lunch or dinner)
Medical and travel insurance
Transportation
1 excursion outside of the city
2 cultural immersion tours and activities
Pre-program and post-program support
24/7 on-site support
2025 Summer Programs Dates and Fees
Summer 2025: Available
TERMS
Summer 2025: Available
TERMS
Summer 2025: Available
TERMS
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