Championing public health
JO-ANN Belotindos is an International Medical University (IMU) student under the Master of Pharmacy Practice programme. Hailing from the Phillipines, she chose to study in Malaysia because of its proximity to home and similar culture and climate.
Aiming to be the catalyst of change in the pharmacy profession through teaching, Belotindos has been in academia since 2004, working as an instructor with Southwestern University PHINMA in Cebu City, the Philippines.
As part of her course in pharmacy practice, Belotindos conducted a research study on women’s awareness, attitudes and perceptions regarding Zika in the Philippines. Belotindos’ research showed a need for public health interventions that focus on protection against Zika among people in Cebu, especially in the religio-social context of the Philippines.
“The results of my research are important to make people aware of how Zika can be spread and prevented. I can contribute to public health by disseminating important information on health issues,” says Belotindos.
Having the Master of Pharmacy Practice qualification from IMU enables graduates to address their education and training needs and remain relevant to healthcare and healthcare management. The programme offers major streams (combined with research training) in clinical pharmacy, social and administrative pharmacy, and pharmacy management.
It is offered in blended mode, enabling pharmacists to earn a master’s degree while continuing to practise. Each student undertakes a research study under the supervision of faculty members who have established research credentials.
IMU offers other postgraduate programmes such as MSc in Analytical and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Postgraduate Diploma in Implant Dentistry, Master in Medical & Health Sciences (by research), and PhD in Medical & Health Sciences (by research).
Established in 1992, IMU pioneered the world’s first Partner Medical School programme and has since gained international recognition with more than 30 world-class university partners in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Canada, Ireland and China. IMU’s main campus is located in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, with branch clinical schools in Seremban, Kuala Pilah, Batu Pahat and Kluang.
For more information on IMU’s postgraduate programmes, call 03-731 7272, e-mail postgraduate@imu.edu.my or visit www.imu.edu.my