Last July, Amanda Miller, PA‑C, Senior Instructor in the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, spent three weeks in rural Bolivia providing medical care at Centro Médico Susan Hou, a clinic affiliated with Northwestern University.

Although PM&R is not a recognized specialty in Bolivia, Miller embraced the opportunity to serve in a primary care role, seeing both adult and pediatric patients and managing a wide range of acute and chronic medical conditions. “PM&R is not a known specialty in Bolivia, so I saw whatever pediatric or adult patient came through the door,” Miller explained.

In addition to patient care, Miller precepted a Northwestern University medical student, supporting hands‑on clinical education in a global health setting. Centro Médico Susan Hou operates year‑round and is staffed by a local Bolivian physician and paid clinical team, providing consistent care for surrounding communities. The clinic also serves as a training site for students and residents from Northwestern and other universities, and periodically hosts visiting providers and surgeons for specialty clinics and surgical campaigns.

The clinic is located in a very rural, rainforest‑surrounded area, making for a memorable setting, both professionally and personally. Monkeys were frequently visible in the trees surrounding the clinic, underscoring how remote the region is.
Miller made the experience a family one, traveling with her family for the three‑week stay. While she focused on clinical care and teaching, her family helped with pharmacy support and patient check‑in, and spent time building connections with local children through soccer games.

The experience reflects Miller’s long‑standing commitment to service beyond traditional clinical settings.
“Global health is a passion of mine and I am always looking for opportunities to pursue it further,” she said, adding that she is happy to connect with others interested in global health work.

While the trip focused on primary care rather than rehabilitation medicine, Miller’s work highlights the adaptability, broad clinical foundation, and service‑oriented values that PM&R faculty bring to diverse care environments around the world.