Boomers Abroad

Description

With an historical significance that resonates across millennia, Ethiopia is known as the cradle of humanity for good reason. The oldest human remains were found here, and it has evolved to become a fascinating region of the African continent. The only nation to completely avoid colonisation, it has a proud and complex culture expressed through dramatic tribal traditions and a life blood of passionate and vibrant people who are proud of their recently acquired democracy.

* What Will I Be Doing?

This is a fantastic opportunity for those studying or working in the medical sector to gain some hands on experience in the field and learn about the running of medical clinics in Ethiopia. Volunteers' activities will depend on their qualifications and experience but there is something for all healthcare devotees on this hands-on medical project.

You may find yourself working, assisting or observing in various departments within the medical clinic, this could include the laboratory, pharmacy, maternity unit, support groups, paediatrics, inpatients, outpatients clinic and theatre. More experienced medical practitioners and students will be able to help with blood tests, vaccines and other activities, there is certainly a lot of scope for learning. Pre-med volunteers can gain fantastic and valuable medical work experience looking after patients, helping in the pharmacy and lab and observing various procedures.

Volunteers are asked to remain flexible and use their initiative in order to get the most out of this placement. You may be dealing with anything from common complaints like headaches and toothaches to more serious ailments such as malaria and typhoid. You may be assisting the doctors in taking vital measurements such as blood pressure and temperature as well as dispensing medication and assisting with nursing duties. The most common complaints of patients are tropical diseases, however many patients have the secondary complication of HIV/AIDS which has a prevalence rate of up to 40% within the area. There will also be the opportunity to get involved with HIV/AIDS awareness within the local community.