A medical approach to body systems is emphasized which prepares the student to understand disease processes. A survey of the most common diseases in developing nations, including diagnosis and treatment is included. Students also perform blood and urine analysis. Students are taught to perform these tests in a primitive environment. An integral part of the IPHC course is the 8-12 week practical field assignment.
Students travel to field sites in various developing countries in Asia, Central or South America.
Working alongside physicians, physician assistants, nurses, lab techs and other primary health workers, students have opportunity to apply and test the principles and skills they have learned in the classroom. Basic clinical skills, as well as skills in cross-cultural communication, are practiced and developed. Students live in close proximity to the people in order to understand practical problems faced in the developing nations. By modeling servant-leadership, students disciple young leaders, providing a foundation for local ministries to reach their communities. Past field assignments have worked in over 24 nations.