Volunteer in Rural Health Clinics in Belize
Project Summary
Volunteer in rural health clinics in Belize and lend a hand in clinics that serve the less affluent citizens of the communities surrounding San Ignacio. Community members often lack access to health professionals and treatments. The clinic is manned by an advanced nurse who provides many services to the 7 surrounding communities including medical outreach and home visits. The duties performed at the clinic include infant immunizations, deworming, controlling fevers, treating work-based injuries, sutures, pre- and post-natal care and supporting lupus sufferers. There can be as many as 20 patients per day at the clinic with a range of ailments. Anyone who needs more intensive or extensive treatment is referred to the local polyclinic for an assessment.
The villagers themselves are poor and community health awareness is a vital part of this placement. Prices are very high in Belize but wages are low so community healthcare is important as apart from a select, few many are struggling and their physical well being is often neglected. You can help to improve the situation for many by becoming a volunteer in this rural health clinic and assisting the local nurse.
Why choose this project?
- Help run the clinics from recording basic patient information, especially for young children, giving basic nursing care to more advanced treatment depending on your qualifications.
- Benefit from a well-rounded experience.
- Add this experience to their CV/Resume while, and as well from improving their Spanish.
Role of the Volunteer
Your role as a volunteer depends largely on your skills and experience:
- Nursing students will be placed at the centre and will work alongside the nurse. Your activities will very much depend on your training and experience. The local nurse will decide on the appropriate activities for you.
- Qualified nurses will register with the Belizean Medical Council and will be involved in more in-depth consultations as part of the local team.
- Qualified doctors will register with the Belizean Medical Council and will be able to practice within the community and within their specialization, assuming it’s in high demand.
All volunteers will gain valuable experience, and interact with people of all ages within the rural community. You may encounter minor ailments such as wounds that need cleaning, sores and infections. You may also be asked to take the lead in community health educational sessions, depending on the needs of the project at the time of your placement.
Skills Required
Nurses, community health workers and midwives will be well-utilized within the rural clinic setting. All volunteers will be asked to submit a CV/resume and attend a Skype to establish interests and expectations. If you are a qualified medical professional, you will need to register with the Belizean Medical Council to be able to treat in line with your training. You will be asked to send your medical license to enable the local team to obtain the Temporary Employment Permit. Please note that resources are limited, so if you need any specialist equipment to perform your duties we do recommend you to bring it with you. A good supply of masks and gloves is recommended, as well as scrubs.
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