12/06/2026
Day 4: Rehabilitation, Equity and Supporting Future Generations
Day 4 provided another rich opportunity for learning and professional exchange as Dr Oum Nhel and Dr Sem Chandara spent time with colleagues across University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, exploring rehabilitation services, paediatric care, health equity and child and adolescent mental health.
Dr Sem Chandara’s Experience with Paediatric Services
Following an introduction from Gemma to the paediatric patient pathway and follow-up processes, Dr Sem Chandara spent the morning in the Paediatric Outpatient Department with Dr Rajaram. Observing children with a range of long-term conditions, he gained valuable insight into how ongoing assessment, monitoring and continuity of care support improved outcomes for young patients and their families.
The experience highlighted the importance of structured follow-up pathways, multidisciplinary collaboration and early intervention. Dr Chandara reflected that several aspects of the diagnostic and management processes could be adapted to strengthen paediatric services at Battambang Hospital, particularly in supporting children with complex or chronic health needs.
Dr Oum Nhel’s Experience with Rehabilitation Services
Meanwhile, Dr Oum Nhel visited Springville House, where he met senior physiotherapy colleagues working within the Rehabilitation Ward. The discussions provided a comprehensive overview of rehabilitation services within the NHS, including staffing models, professional roles and the contribution of multidisciplinary teams in supporting stroke recovery and patient independence.
Particularly impressive was the integrated approach to rehabilitation, extending beyond hospital discharge into patients’ homes and communities. Dr Oum learned how NHS physiotherapists continue to support patients through home visits, helping individuals regain independence and reduce the likelihood of readmission. This community-based model was identified as a powerful example of care that could inform future service development at Battambang Hospital.
The discussions also explored rehabilitation outcomes, resource requirements and strategies for increasing awareness of rehabilitation services among both healthcare professionals and the wider community. Educational initiatives, including the use of video resources, were highlighted as practical and cost-effective approaches that could potentially be adopted in Cambodia.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr Oum recognised that while resource constraints present challenges, strengthening rehabilitation services, expanding community support and developing clearer recovery pathways could significantly improve outcomes for patients recovering from stroke and other long-term conditions.
Understanding Health Equity
In the afternoon, both doctors joined Associate Director of Nursing Emma and colleagues at the Trust’s Health Equity Committee. The meeting focused on understanding and addressing the factors that contribute to inequalities in health outcomes and access to healthcare services.
For the visiting doctors, this was their first opportunity to observe such a structured discussion on health equity and inclusion. The committee demonstrated how healthcare organisations can actively identify barriers to care, address discrimination and work collaboratively with communities to ensure services are accessible and responsive to the needs of all populations.
The session prompted important reflections on how principles of equity and inclusion could be further considered within healthcare services in Cambodia, particularly as the country’s health system continues to evolve and expand.
Exploring Child and Adolescent Mental Health
The day concluded with a highly engaging discussion involving Dr Oum Nhel, Dr Sem Chandara, Transform Healthcare Cambodia Director Dr Paul Tynan, and Dr Jonathan Roocroft, Associate Medical Director at Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust.
The conversation focused on Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), comparing the organisation, challenges and opportunities within the UK and Cambodian healthcare systems. While significant differences in resources and investment quickly became apparent, the discussion also highlighted important strengths within Cambodian society, including strong family networks, community support and the positive influence of faith and cultural values.
A key theme throughout the discussion was the importance of building trust with children and young people, understanding the factors underlying presenting behaviours, and intervening early to prevent problems from escalating. Participants agreed that many of the most effective interventions can be delivered within community settings through education, awareness and support for those working closely with children and adolescents.
The meeting generated several ideas for future collaboration and capacity building. Dr Roocroft generously offered ongoing support, including opportunities for future case discussion and professional advice. The conversation also opened the door to potential future partnerships, including opportunities for UK clinicians to visit Cambodia and contribute to the development of mental health services.
Reflections
Day 4 demonstrated the breadth of factors that contribute to effective healthcare beyond the walls of the hospital. From rehabilitation and community care to health equity and mental health, the experiences highlighted the importance of supporting patients throughout their entire healthcare journey. For Dr Oum and Dr Chandara, the day provided practical ideas, valuable professional connections and renewed inspiration for how services might continue to develop within Battambang Hospital and the wider Cambodian healthcare system.
