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.
This program is open to all registered medical students, regardless of level of education or year of study. 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.
