Columbia Nursing Dean Lorraine Frazier Visits China

In a significant step towards fostering international collaboration and enriching nursing education, Dr. Lorraine Frazier, PhD, Dean of Columbia University School of Nursing, and Dr. Jingjing Shang, PhD, Professor of Nursing, recently visited China.

This strategic visit, supported by the Columbia Global Center Beijing, focused on exploring ideas and practices that foster a holistic approach to health and nursing education, as well as opportunities for nursing students' global practices.

Strengthening Ties with Leading Nursing Institutions

During their stay, Dean Frazier and Professor Shang engaged with some of China’s foremost medical institutions, including Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) and Beijing University of Chinese Medicine.

The delegation received a warm welcome from Dr. Zheng LI, Dean of the School of Nursing at PUMC, along with the institution’s senior leaders, esteemed faculty, and current students, setting the tone for a series of highly productive discussions. Renowned for its rigorous academic programs and contributions to healthcare, PUMC is a leader in nursing education and research in China.

The conversations focused on expanding student exchange programs and fostering robust professional communication channels between faculty and students at both Columbia and PUMC. This collaborative effort is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of nursing practices within a global framework, thereby enhancing their educational and professional development.

Both institutions are recognized as leading nursing schools in their respective countries, with PUMC leading Chinese nursing for over a century and Columbia being the number one recipient of NIH funding for nursing in the past two years.

The delegation then visited the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM), a premier institution specializing in traditional Chinese medicine. Dr. Anlong XU, President of BUCM, warmly welcomed Dean Frazier and Professor Shang, presenting the university's vision and mission, along with the foundational theories and perspectives of traditional Chinese medicine and their commitment to advancing traditional Chinese medical theories and practices.

The discussions were both insightful and inspiring, as Dean Frazier was particularly interested in the practical applications of traditional Chinese medicine in nursing education at BUCM. They explored how BUCM's methodologies could be adapted and implemented within Columbia's programs to promote an integrative approach to healthcare. By combining Western and Eastern medical philosophies, Columbia aims to equip its nursing students with a unique set of skills and knowledge, enhancing their ability to provide comprehensive, culturally competent care in a globalized healthcare environment.

The delegation also visited the Beijing office of the China Medical Board (CMB) and met with Dr. Wenkai Li, the Director and Senior Program Manager. For over a century, CMB has been a pivotal force in advancing health in China and neighboring Asian countries by strengthening medical, nursing, and public health research and education.

During the meeting, Mr. Li provided an insightful overview of CMB's enduring legacy and its significant contributions to the development of healthcare and nursing in China, as well as explored potential future collaborations between Columbia and CMB. The discussions underscored both institutions' commitment to fostering a partnership that leverages their combined expertise to drive significant advancements in nursing education and practice.

Exchange Experiences with Local Hospitals in Beijing and Hangzhou

In an increasingly interconnected world, the exchange of knowledge and experiences between international institutions and local hospitals is more crucial than ever. During their visit, Dean Frazier and Professor Shang recently visited Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) and the First Affiliated Hospital of the Zhejiang University School of Medicine (FAHZU), both renowned for their exceptional nursing practices and contributions to healthcare.

At PUMC Hospital, Na Guo, Director of the Department of Organization and former Director of the Department of Nursing, and senior leaders at the Department of Nursing and International Collaboration Office provided a comprehensive overview of the hospital's nursing practices, particularly focusing on the needs and development of specialist nurses. This discussion was pivotal in understanding the specific demands and expectations of specialist nursing within the Chinese healthcare system. Dean Frazier introduced Columbia Nursing's Doctor of Nursing Practice program, detailing its curriculum and the rigorous training that prepares graduates for advanced practice roles.

Both parties acknowledged PUMC Hospital's leadership and pioneering role in Chinese nursing and explored various avenues for potential collaboration. Columbia shared its history as the first in the country to award a Master's degree in a clinical nursing specialty. The discussions included developing specialized training programs tailored to the needs of Chinese nurses.

The visit to the First Affiliated Hospital of the Zhejiang University School of Medicine in Hangzhou further underscored the commitment to international cooperation. Here, Dean Frazier and Professor Shang engaged with local nursing leaders and educators, sharing insights and best practices in nursing education and clinical care, including the use of AI and advanced technology in medical and nursing care and training.

The exchange of experiences and ideas highlighted the mutual benefits of fostering a global nursing community focused on improving patient care and advancing the profession.

Discussion and Immersive Experience in Mind-Body Healing Techniques

Beyond academic engagements, Dean Frazier’s visit included an immersive exploration of Chinese culture and health philosophies. The delegation explored various cultural sites and engaged in activities that deepened their understanding of Chinese Buddhism and the holistic approach of “身心灵治愈” (body, mind, and spirit healing), a concept that is central to traditional Chinese health practices and is reflected in several key practices including acupuncture and acupressure, herbal medicine, Qi Gong and Tai Chi, dietary therapy, and meditation and mindfulness. This cultural immersion underscored the strategic and organizational value of incorporating diverse health philosophies into nursing education.

The delegation visited iconic cultural landmarks such as the Great Wall, the Lama Temple, and the China National Tea Museum. These visits provided Dean Frazier and her team with insights into the core beliefs of traditional Chinese health practices, broadening their cultural competence and appreciation for the holistic aspects of Chinese health culture.

Promoting Global Nursing Education

Dean Frazier’s visit to China represents a significant milestone in promoting dialogue and cooperation between Columbia University and prestigious Chinese medical institutions. This visit not only opens up new pathways for student exchanges and global practicums but also introduces innovative ideas for integrating diverse medical knowledge into nursing education.

The trip underscores Columbia University School of Nursing’s commitment to global engagement and educational excellence. By fostering international collaborations and embracing diverse health philosophies, Columbia continues to lead the way in preparing future nursing professionals for a globalized world.