The fellowship training journey of a Cambodian neurologist: My inspiration to pursue a fellowship in Movement Disorders

As a Cambodian doctor, I recognize the healthcare obstacles facing our developing nation. Our aim is to provide quality healthcare to our population of nearly 17 million. No neurology residency programs exist in Cambodia yet. There are only about 20 neurologists serving the entire country. All of them are located in Phnom Penh. This leaves those living outside the city without access to proper care.

My Early Steps in Neurology

I graduated from medical school in late 2015 with a degree in internal medicine. Still, I soon found my true passion in neurology, and I joined the Neurology department at the Khmer-Soviet Friendship Hospital in early 2016.

A Transformative Experience in Paris

In 2017, I pursued my passion for neurology by enrolling in a 2-year DFMSA and FFI (Diplôme de Formation Médicale Spécialisée Approfondie) program at Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital in Paris, France. This immersive experience opened my eyes to the complexities and intricacies of the neurological world.

Encountering a Young Parkinson's Patient

A critical moment in my journey occurred when I encountered a young lady, a kind patient who has Parkinson's disease. Witnessing the challenges posed by this progressive neurological condition, I was deeply moved by the patient's unwavering spirit and determination to live a fulfilling life. I am driven by the desire to make a tangible impact on patients' lives, helping them manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Addressing the Absence of Neurotoxin in Cambodia: A Motivating Factor

The lack of neurotoxin, a crucial therapeutic agent for treating specific neurological disorders, in Cambodia has strengthened my resolve to pursue a fellowship in Parkinson's disease and movement disorders.

Current Fellowship at Chulalongkorn University

I am currently pursuing a fellowship in Parkinson's disease and related movement disorders at the Chulalongkorn Center of Excellence for Parkinson’s Disease and Related Disorders in Bangkok, Thailand. This prestigious program allows me to collaborate with leading experts in the field and gain valuable experiences in clinical signs, diagnosing movement disorders, and treating various diseases. I also had the opportunity to observe many specialized clinics, such as the device-aided therapy clinic and DBS surgery, botulinum toxin injection clinic, and neurophysiology clinic.

Additionally, I participate in numerous fellow activities with previous fellow teams, including activities like journal clubs and topic reviews related to Parkinson's disease and related disorders. Furthermore, I was privileged to attend the 8th International Movement Disorders Camp in Pattaya, Thailand. All of these opportunities have enriched my experience and increased my confidence in my knowledge about movement disorders.

Conclusion

I hope my story will resonate with other medical students, doctors, and general neurologists, inspiring them to pursue their passions and make a difference in the lives of others. Together, we can work towards a future where neurological disorders are no longer a barrier to a fulfilling and meaningful life.