Medical Rehabilitation Volunteer
Trip Details
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.
Trip Itinerary
Monday to Friday
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.
***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances***
Trip Accommodation
Trip Country Info
Laos
Capital: Vientiane
Language: Lao
Currency: Kip (LAK)
Time zone: ICT +7:00
Once known as the ‘land of a million elephants’, Laos is the only landlocked country in Asia, bordered by Burma, China, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. It became a French protectorate in 1893 and finally became an independent country in 1953 with a constitutional monarchy. This monarchy however was shortly ended by a long civil war. Today Laos is a single-party socialist republic whilst remaining strongly influenced by the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and the Vietnam People’s Army. The Laotian people make up roughly 60% of the population whilst indigenous groups and hill tribes account for 40% of the Laotian population.
It is a country that has a lot to offer whether it’s the underground river caves, the white-water rapids and jungle zip lines for thrill seekers, the beautiful forests for trekkers and nature lovers or the wonderful cuisine for the foodies!
Gap year travel in Laos is enjoyed in a country of stunning natural beauty and strong spiritual traditions which remain relatively unexplored. With a population of over 6 million people, it is one of the least populated countries in the world. Much of the country is dominated by forested mountains, lush green valleys and broad snaking rivers, including the famous Mekong, the 12th longest in the world. This natural beauty is why many people choose volunteer and travel to Laos.
The Lao wilderness is drawing travellers looking for nature, adventure or both. Kayaking, rafting, rock-climbing and biking are all available, but it’s trekking that is most popular because it combines spectacular natural attractions with the chance to experience the ‘real Laos’ with a village homestay. We have a choice of opportunities for your gap year travel in Laos such as medical work, conservation work, voluntary projects and much more. If you are thinking about a volunteer experience in Laos have a look at our latest programs below or contact us for more information about exciting experiences in this fantastic country.
Participant Criteria & Requirements
Standard Requirements
No requirements have been provided.
Additional Requirements
No requirements have been provided.
What's included
- 24/7 support in case of emergencies
- Accommodation
- Airport Pick up
- English speaking coordinator
- Meals
- Orientation
What's not included
- Airport drop off
- Flights
- Travel insurance
- Vaccination
- Visa