London Calling: Explore Global Healthcare in the UK This Fall

MCPHS students to study the NHS and its approach to patient care and policy.

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) students have an opportunity to study the National Health Service (NHS), Britain's state-funded health system, firsthand through the Fall 2025 Global Comparative Healthcare Travel Seminar in London. The program examines healthcare delivery, policy, and innovation abroad.

The program will take place from October 11-18 and is open to students enrolled in the School of Healthcare Business and Technology and students from other programs with approval. Applications are due by March 30.

"This seminar isn’t just about studying another healthcare system—it’s about expanding our students’ ability to think critically about innovation, policy, and patient care on a global scale," said Michael Spooner, Dean of the School of Healthcare Business and Technology.

Examining Healthcare Systems

Students will compare healthcare systems by engaging with industry leaders, visiting NHS hospitals and healthcare facilities, and discussing healthcare policy, financing, and equity. Past participants described the experience as providing an in-depth look at universal healthcare.

“Our perception is that publicly funded healthcare is bad quality, but as we saw in England, that’s not always the case,” said Haley Moore, Doctor of Healthcare Administration ’24, who served as an ambassador for the 2023 trip. “There’s value in meeting people who do the same thing as you in another country.”

Students will visit NHS hospitals, examining how funding, management, and patient care differ from the U.S. system. Visits to institutions like Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and Watford General Hospital will highlight disparities in healthcare funding and resources.

“Understanding the NHS gives our students a broader perspective on healthcare challenges and provides a valuable perspective in finding solutions to the complex challenges of healthcare,” Spooner said. "By engaging directly with NHS professionals and healthcare innovators, our students gain insights beyond textbooks, they see real-world examples that prepare them to lead in an increasingly interconnected world."

Healthcare Innovations

A key part of the trip is attending the CW Innovation event at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital where students observe how artificial intelligence and new technologies are being used in patient care. Past attendees engaged with developers and healthcare professionals to explore AI applications in diagnostics and telehealth.

Students will also meet MCPHS alumni working in the UK, including professionals in pharmacy and elder care, offering perspectives on the transition between U.S. and UK healthcare careers.

Cultural and Historical Context

In addition to site visits and discussions, students will explore London’s history and culture through visits to landmarks such as the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament.

“This exposure to real-world challenges and solutions broadened my perspective on global health issues,” said Stephanie Shaw, DHA ’26.