Building on the positive experiences of students in previous years, this year the second-year students of the Preventive Physiotherapy program took part in a study trip, during which they visited the hospice “Marija Krucifiksa Kozulić” and Thalassotherapia Opatija.

The “Marija Krucifiksa Kozulić” hospice in Rijeka provides palliative care for patients in the terminal stage of illness, ensuring dignity, comfort, and support from medical staff, volunteers, and family members. This institution is distinguished by its holistic approach to care, where the patient is at the center – considering their physical, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being. During the visit, students had the opportunity to learn about the organization of work, challenges, and ethical aspects of palliative care and to engage in conversation with professionals who provide invaluable support to seriously ill patients on a daily basis.

As a gesture of gratitude and support, the students presented the hospice director with a monetary donation, collected through the joint initiative of both students and faculty members.

The next stop on the trip was Thalassotherapia Opatija, a special hospital for medical rehabilitation of cardiovascular, pulmonary, and rheumatic diseases, and one of the leading centers for physical medicine and rehabilitation in Croatia. Located right by the sea, it takes advantage of the natural benefits of the Mediterranean climate and seawater as part of its therapeutic approach. During their visit, students attended professional lectures and toured therapy departments, where they were introduced to modern methods of physical therapy, kinesitherapy, the use of robotic technology in rehabilitation, hydrotherapy, and other forms of rehabilitation. They also had the opportunity to speak with experienced physiotherapists and gain valuable insights that will benefit them in their future professional careers.

Experiences such as these are invaluable for the professional and personal development of future physiotherapists and further emphasize the importance of practical exposure to different forms of healthcare.