The contrast between medical practices in the western world and those in developing countries can be stark, and this is a real opportunity to understand and contribute to the realities of modern medicine in an under-resourced environment.
Volunteers are placed in hospitals in Kathmandu, Chitwan or Pokhara, where you shadow and assist local physicians and nurses. It’s possible for volunteers to get good exposure to a range of different medical departments, but as local regulations prevent volunteers from performing independent tasks, you should not expect to be carrying out hands-on medical duties. For this reason, this project is best suited to medical students.
Volunteers are able to observe operating rooms and assist with physical therapy, burns patients, emergency room rounds, family planning sessions, immunizations and helping new mothers and babies.
Experienced and longer term volunteers (i.e. two months or more) are more likely to be able to assist with hands-on tasks, and can also help with healthcare and outreach campaigns in rural health clinics
This project is open to volunteers who are in their third year of medical or nursing school or above. You will need to present a copy of your qualification to our local team at least 30 days prior to your arrival.
Please note there is a minimum duration requirement of 2 weeks for this project and there is also a surcharge of $60 per week to cover training and resources used. This will be included in the program fee quoted to you when you apply. Please ensure that you apply for the Medical Elective project at least six weeks before your chosen start date, to provide enough time to arrange a suitable placement.
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