Medical Internship in South Africa

About the program

Most of the medical projects supported by the program are government funded local clinical facilities for people who cannot afford private medical care, and are severely understaffed and underfunded, with a lack of vital resources. Volunteers will contribute a hugely valuable service, however must be aware that this can be a very stressful and challenging environment to work in. The people it supports are impoverished and disadvantaged, making this a very rewarding project to be a part of. This is a great learning opportunity, however the level of involvement and direct patient care is entirely dependent on each volunteers training and particular skills. In most cases, volunteers should expect to be mostly observing while working alongside local staff, however as volunteers build rapport with local staff, they may be given more responsibility.

Goals of this Project:

• Improve the future prospects of the people of South Africa
• Assist in the provision of quality medical care to the impoverished people of Cape Town
• To offer a learning experience to medical interns and healthcare volunteers
• To create a better cultural understanding between all participants

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Volunteer's role

Volunteers contribute in a number of ways and can expect to undertake the following tasks:

• Shadow a local doctor or nurse and provide assistance with a range of delegated tasks
• Assist with basic day-to-day medical care, as appropriate for experience and training (wound care, measurement taking etc)
• Assist with awareness and education programs
• Network with program staff and medical staff

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Requirements  

This program offers an amazing opportunity for suitable applicants who are 18 years and over to work alongside qualified medical professionals and gain first-hand insight into the South African healthcare system.

It is open to those with experience and/or education in the field of medicine including med-school students. Ideally, volunteers on this project will have at least a basic knowledge of the local language in order to communicate effectively with patients and staff, though this is not a pre-requisite as most speak English.

Volunteers are required to provide a short motivational letter, and a letter from their medical school (if they are a medical student).

Applications for this program must be received at least 8 weeks prior to your intended start date.

Additionally, volunteers applying to join this program will be required to supply to following documentation:

• Emergency contact
• Medical Qualification
• Passport
• Resume