This gap year medical programme in Laos will involve close contact with patients and staff at Vientiane’s medical facility. You’ll learn from the medical staff about the treatments they use for patients, the majority of whom have medical issues concerning limbs (arms, legs, feet and hands).
During your time here, you will observe a doctor in his or her daily routine, find out about common treatments, exchange medical experience and knowledge according to your ability and even assist with the treatments (occupational therapy). There may also be the opportunity for patient care and diagnostic examinations.
In the early stage of the programme your placement will be more about observation than participation. As time goes on you will assist with patient treatment, patient care and examinations where possible and dependent on your level of expertise. Occupational therapists will be placed in the rehabilitation centre,where they can assist with physical exercises.
You will also be asked to engage with the local nurses and doctors in English medical terminology.
This medical project will be coordinated by the organization’s staff and supervised by a member of the medical team at CMR. Part of the programme fee will go to the medical centre for the facilitation and supervision of the project.
A typical schedule for a medical gap volunteer programme in Laos will involve shadowing local doctors and nurses in the mornings then after lunch you can assist in patient care and any necessary follow-ups from the morning rounds. Then it’s time for dinner and free time.