The International Physician Scholarship Fund provides physicians from developing countries with the opportunity to attend the AAHPM Annual Assembly. Through education, mentorship, and meaningful connection, the program empowers scholars to strengthen care in their home communities and beyond. In this interview, Dr. Mujeeb Rahman reflects on their experience at the Assembly and the value of global collaboration.
Mujeeb Rahman, MBBS MS
Medical Director
Institute of Palliative Medicine, WHO Collaborating Center for Country Capacity Building in Palliative and Long term Care
Kozhikode, Kerala, India
What inspired you to apply for this scholarship? Was there a defining moment that motivated you?
I was inspired by the experiences of previous International Scholars and by the opportunity to interact with some of the most accomplished leaders in hospice and palliative medicine in the United States. The possibility of learning from their work, sharing perspectives from my own context, and building meaningful professional relationships motivated me to apply.
What experience excited you the most as part of the International Physician Scholarship?
Every moment in San Diego was exciting. Meeting colleagues from different parts of the world, attending insightful lectures, and engaging in conversations about the future of palliative care were truly energizing. I especially appreciated the opportunity to share the Kerala experience of community participation in palliative care and the impact it has had on improving access. The response and interest from many participants were encouraging.
As an International Physician Scholar, what has been the most rewarding part of your journey so far?
The most rewarding part has been the connections formed during the Assembly. I remain in contact with many colleagues I met there, and these conversations continue to open doors for collaboration and shared learning.
Can you share a personal achievement from the program that makes you especially proud?
One moment that stood out was being invited to join the Global Special Interest Group by its chair, Dennis Mohess. As the co-founder of the Global Palliative Doctors Network, this recognition felt particularly meaningful and reinforced the importance of strengthening international collaboration among physicians working in palliative care.
How has this scholarship experience influenced your future aspirations?
This experience has strengthened my commitment to building stronger global connections in palliative care. It reaffirmed my belief that collaboration across countries can accelerate learning, innovation, and access to care.
What’s the next big goal you’re working toward, and how has this program helped shape your path?
My next goal is to expand the reach and impact of the Global Palliative Doctors Network so that it becomes a meaningful support platform for physicians involved in palliative care across the world. The connections and inspiration from this program have strengthened my aspiration to make the network a real resource for clinicians working in diverse settings.
At the same time, through my work at the Institute of Palliative Medicine, a WHO Collaborating Centre for Community Participation in Palliative Care and Long-Term Care, I hope to further spread the message of public health palliative care globally through its various programs.