Hvala Split!
As two third-year medical students from Lund University, we recently had the opportunity to spend time in Croatia for our term 5 research project. Our focus is on NIDCAP, the Newborn Individualised Developmental Care and Assessment Program – a model of neonatal care designed to support the development of premature infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The primary aim of our project is to investigate the impact of NIDCAP on premature infants in Europe. More specifically, we wanted to further investigate individualised care intervention programs, and whether they have a positive or negative impact on early life care. Our visit to Split provided the perfect setting for us to immerse ourselves in this work. Not only did we learn more about the wider context of evidence-based medicine, research methodology and guideline development, but were also given the opportunity to explore the wonderful city of Split!
Firstly, we would like to say a huge 'thank you' to the medical faculty for their generous hospitality. We are also incredibly grateful to Tina and the wonderful team at Cochrane Croatia, who not only made us feel very welcome, but also gave us valuable insights into the world of evidence-based medicine, research and healthcare in Croatia. Throughout our stay, we were fortunate to meet and spend time with some inspirational people. Irena, Danira, Shelly, Holger Schünemann and many more shared their knowledge, experience and unique perspectives with generosity and warmth. We learnt much more about Cochrane’s pioneering work, the GRADE approach and how systematic reviews and guidelines are shaping the way medicine is practiced today.
Beyond the academic experience, we grew very fond of Split. We especially enjoyed St. Domnius’ Day with “lucky wooden spoons” and the celebrations that brought the city alive with music, joy, and local traditions. We also explored the beautiful islands of Hvar and Brač, with Bol and Zlatni Rat being Hanneli’s favourites, and Hvar Ellinor’s. This trip has been so much more than a study visit. It has provided fresh insights and perspectives, helped us build new connections, and increased our appreciation for the global collaboration that drives medical progress today. We return home not only with valuable knowledge and insights, but also some wonderful memories and new friendships. We hope to get another opportunity to visit the Split Medical Faculty and Croatia some time in the future.
Ellinor Lyberg and Hanneli Timothy
Livia Puljak and Irena Zakarija-Grković with students from Sweden