A team of 29 IMU Chiropractic students, accompanied by three faculty members and one alumna, took part in the Hands for Vitality programme from 23 February to 08 March 2025—an international chiropractic outreach in partnership with Intercare and the Camara Institute for Chiropractic Sciences (CICS) in the Philippines. This immersive mission served as an exceptional platform for IMU participants to refine their clinical skills, build confidence, and provide vital chiropractic care to underserved communities.
Bridging Academia and Global Service
IMU University, renowned for its evidence-based and patient-centered approach to healthcare education, continually seeks avenues that allow students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. The Hands for Vitality mission exemplifies this commitment, giving participants firsthand exposure to a range of musculoskeletal conditions and patient demographics.
“This programme challenges our students to adapt, problem-solve, and offer comprehensive, empathetic care. Working alongside Intercare and CICS in the Philippines allows them to experience the complexities of community-based healthcare firsthand.”
— Wong Yi Kai, IMU Chiropractic Mobility Coordinator
Building on Previous Successes
Among the 33 IMU participants—including an alumna currently working in the Philippines—15 were returnees, highlighting the programme’s lasting influence. This year, the mission achieved a landmark milestone, treating 2,395 patients and addressing 5,114 conditions across regions in Manila, Pampanga, and Camarines Sur.
“Selamat po! It’s my second time in the Philippines, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to serve underserved communities once again. Every mission reminds me why I chose this profession—helping others is profoundly fulfilling and motivates me to grow.”
— Yvonne Tan Yi Wen, Returnee
Hands-On Clinical Experience: Real-World Chiropractic Immersion
Over the two-week mission, IMU students encountered various musculoskeletal issues prevalent in manual workers, who often endure physically demanding jobs. Under the guidance of experienced chiropractic practitioners, the students learned to assess, diagnose, and deliver targeted interventions, honing skills that extend beyond the classroom.
“This was my first time joining a mission trip, and it was eye-opening. Adapting to new environments, learning to communicate across language barriers, and witnessing the impact of chiropractic care on patients reaffirmed my passion for this field.”
— Soon Yu Wei, First-Time Participant
“The patients were my biggest teachers—to be more empathetic and compassionate. This mission taught me that we heal not just with our hands, but also with our hearts.”
— Chin Ziqing, IMU faculty
Leadership and Teamwork
Faculty members and alumna mentored junior participants, emphasizing patient-centered ethics, effective interprofessional collaboration, and the importance of cultural sensitivity in healthcare. This structured approach ensured that each student received personalised feedback to accelerate clinical competence.
“Working in multidisciplinary teams taught me that healthcare is strongest when it’s collaborative, not competitive. We each bring unique strengths for the patient’s benefit.”
— Russell Wong Jun Yuen, Returnee
Impact Beyond the Clinic
Beyond offering chiropractic services, the Hands for Vitality mission enabled IMU students to engage in community education—promoting the importance of proper posture, exercise, and ergonomics. These preventive strategies are crucial, especially in communities where heavy physical labor is common.
Local government units (LGUs) in Pasig, Antipolo, Navotas, Caloocan, and Quezon City provided invaluable support, helping coordinate logistics, mobilise patients, and ensure that the mission reached those most in need.
Looking Ahead
As part of IMU’s broader mission to mold globally competent healthcare professionals, collaborations like Hands for Vitality will continue to expand. Future initiatives may include returning to the Philippines for additional outreach cycles, hosting community health workshops, and extending the programme’s reach to other countries.
“We are dedicated to giving our students these transformative experiences, enabling them to evolve into compassionate, skilled chiropractors who understand the value of service. Hands for Vitality perfectly aligns with IMU’s aim to nurture healthcare leaders on a global scale.”
— Wong Yi Kai, IMU Chiropractic Mobility Coordinator
Be Part of the Next Mission
If you’re an IMU student, alumnus, or faculty member interested in future community immersions with Hands for Vitality, stay updated through:
- IMU Cares: https://imu.edu.my/imucares/
- Hands for Vitality Website: cics-edu.ph
- Hands for Vitality Instagram: @handsforvitality.ph
- Camara Institute for Chiropractic Sciences (CICS): cics-edu.ph
Through this collaborative initiative, IMU University continues to uphold its commitment to academic excellence, patient-centered training, and global engagement, shaping the next generation of skilled, compassionate chiropractors.
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