Hospital/Clinic Medical Assistant

In many parts of Africa people live in poor conditions, especially in rural settlements. Millions of people experience deprivation of the most basic rights to water, shelter and food. The medical infrastructure in Zimbabwe is very low and often people need to walk long distances to receive medical aid. Our hospitals and medical centers are in short of drugs, medical equipment and even health care professionals as we experience brain drain due to the poor economic environment. This project is implemented in partnership with local hospitals and clinics in Victoria Falls to give much-needed help and support to challenged healthcare institutions.

Victoria Falls Hospital is the District hospital which supports people from Victoria Falls urban (approximately 60 000 people), Victoria Falls rural with approximately 80 000 people. Four rural clinics feed to the district hospital usually through people who are referred for further examination and treatment. 

Volunteers mainly assist in administrative duties, basic treatment and patient support. They also participate in community health awareness programs to inform communities of HIV/AIDS, Malaria and other common diseases and support the healthcare institutions. Volunteers will likely be occupied throughout their shifts which could be a morning, afternoon or overnight shift. 

As a volunteer, you will firstly be attached at a local clinic were you will learn about primary healthcare before joining the hospital were you have the chance to go through almost all hospital departments for your learning and appreciation of the Zimbabwe healthcare system. At the hospital, volunteers will witness minor to almost major operations which include C-sections for pregnant women. 

The hospital is merely a 5 minute walk from your accommodation which will make it easy for you to get home during tea breaks or any other times as shall be approved by your supervisor while the clinics are in a 5km radius. Volunteers should also understand that there shall be moments they shall be on call and expected to work any time depending on how the hospital gets busy.

Victoria Falls is best known for being one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World – this enormous mass of water, constantly flowing and falling over 110m (twice the height of North America’s Niagara falls), has attracted millions of travellers since its discovery in 1855. These falls, located on the border between Zambia to the north and Zimbabwe to the south, are known to locals as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”) - they have since given rise to Victoria Falls town (Zimbabwe). With a population of approx. 36 000, the town’s economy is heavily dependent on the tourism industry.

There are an incredible number of activities for visitors to do during their leisure time, including:

• Zambezi River Sunset Cruise – US$55.00
• Victoria Falls Unguided Tour – US$30.00 (additional US$20.00 for guide)
• Elephant Encounter (no rides) – US$75.00
• Zip-Line Canopy Tour – US$53.00
• Bungee jump – US$160.00
• Vic Falls Gorge Swing – US$95.00
• Abseiling – US$65.00
• Boma Dinner with African dance show – US$65.00
• Devils Pool swim – US$140.00
• Helicopter flight over falls – US$150.00
• Zambezi Canoe tour – US$150.00
• White-water rafting – US$120.00

* Please note national park fees may apply – please confirm final price at time of booking
* All prices include transport to/from volunteer house