Medical Elective Journeys

This experience exceeded any expectation I had to begin with. At first I was nervous and anxious to see what the 2 weeks had in store for me. When I arrived I was warmly greeted and properly introduced to the work that I would be participating in. I was taken to my home stay where I was introduced to the family I would be living with for 2 week. They were extremely friendly, accepting and welcoming as I entered into their home. The food prepared for me was delicious, their helpfulness was impeccable and I never felt unsafe or uncomfortable in any situation. I frequently got a phone call from the coordinator checking up on me to see how my day was and to assess if there were any problems that needed solving. I felt like I was treated respectfully and I never came across any issues. Living with a local family I was able to engulf myself in the culture and everyday routines and rituals that they followed. They made me feel as If I was apart of their family. I feel fortunate to have been placed with such a kind, giving, and heartwarming family.

I partook in a few different placements during my stay. For the first week I participated in maternity clinics, a dental clinic, home visits, and the school for the blind and deaf. The second week I was placed in the intensive care unit (ICU) at a provincial general hospital. I was taken to my site and picked up afterwards; so I never felt lost or overwhelmed with directing myself around a new city. Each placement had friendly staff that allowed me to observe, assist and learn. I was thoroughly taught about the healthcare system in Sri Lanka and the medical care available. I feel as if all of my goals were obtained from this trip. This once in a lifetime opportunity provided me with more than I could have asked for.

My observership Program was given me an opportunity to understand Sri Lankan medical system. I had opportunity visiting many departments at the hospital where I stayed. The local team was very helpful . I really enjoyed my stay in Sri Lanka .

We had amazing medical elective program in Sri Lanka . The project offered us many opportunities connecting with local community . The weekends were full with extensive traveling to most of the beautiful sightseeing in Sri Lanka . We honor the support given by local team.

During February and March 2016 I traveled to Sri Lanka for eight weeks for my medical elective. I spent four weeks in the private Hemas Hospital in Colombo and four weeks in Passara District Hospital, a remote government hospital in the central hill region an hour public bus ride from Badulla. The experience was one I will never forget. I spent the weekdays working in the hospitals, observing doctors and practicing skills, while the weekends were spent traveling across the beautiful country that is Sri Lanka.

The hot and hectic atmosphere of Colombo contrasted quite significantly to the quiet and rural hills that surrounded Passara District Hospital. During my time in Sri Lanka I lived in volunteer homes in Colombo and Badulla, enjoying home-cooked authentic Sri Lankan food and the company of the families I was staying with. I had chosen to travel to Sri Lanka by myself, which, although initially daunting, I found to be an enlightening experience. I was helped along the way by the volunteer co-ordinator and his wonderful family so I never felt truly alone. Overall I had a fantastic experience, I learned a great deal about Sri Lanka, not just its healthcare but also its deeply interesting culture, history and friendly people.

For me, it was a life-changing experience and if I could go back right now, I wouldn’t hesitate for a second. Volunteering abroad changed my life, and it’s a perfect combo with travelling because it doesn’t only gives you the chance to see the country, you also have the chance to live with the local people