Xiamen University Malaysia (XMUM) and CMH Specialist Hospital have launched a cross-border clinical internship to bridge Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western medicine. Lim Sze Yen, a TCM undergraduate of 2020/04 intake, is the first student to complete the program, marking a milestone in interdisciplinary medical education.

The internship program, launched in 2024, is part of a broader partnership between CMH Specialist Hospital and XMUM. It allows students to rotate through key hospital departments, including outpatient clinics, inpatient wards, emergency units, and upper gastrointestinal specialties, providing them with a diverse clinical experience.

Reflecting on her experience, Lim Sze Yen stated, "During my internship, I encountered a variety of medical cases, including critical patients requiring urgent intervention. One surgery lasted 7.5 hours, and I observed the medical team managing complex procedures."

During her rotation in the emergency department, Lim Sze Yen gained firsthand experience in handling high-pressure medical situations, sharpening her ability to make rapid clinical assessments. Under the guidance of Dr. S. Mahadevan, Head of Surgery at CMH Specialist Hospital, she also participated in outpatient consultations, endoscopic procedures, case discussions, and research on the correlation between TCM diagnostic techniques and modern medical examinations.

"Both TCM and Western medicine prioritize patient care and emphasize a holistic approach," Lim Sze Yen said.

She noted that one of the key differences between the two systems lies in treatment methodologies. TCM incorporates herbal medicine, acupuncture, tuina therapy, and dietary adjustments, focusing on personalized treatment plans. In contrast, Western medicine follows standardized clinical protocols, prescribing medications based on disease progression and medical guidelines.

"This internship provided valuable insights. Training in a Western medical environment allowed me to observe different medical techniques and diagnostic tools, deepening my understanding of how TCM and modern medicine can complement each other," she added.

CMH Specialist Hospital's Academic Affairs Division emphasized that the hospital has developed a structured training framework for TCM interns, incorporating observation, hands-on practice, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Xiamen University Malaysia underscored the significance of this cross-border internship model, which enhances students' clinical competencies and promotes integration between traditional and modern medical practices.

Following the success of this initial internship, both institutions plan to further develop their collaborative training programs, aiming to equip future TCM practitioners with a well-rounded medical education that bridges traditional and contemporary approaches to healthcare.

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