This program operates within a government-managed hospital, dedicated to serving the Ho Chi Minh community. Central to this project is the process of observing, documenting, and analysing, given that it is primarily a hands-off experience.
It's crucial to emphasize that these institutions are bound by government regulations, preventing international participants from independently carrying out tasks. Hence, this project is most suitable for pre-medical or medical students aiming to gain deeper insights into the Vietnamese healthcare system.
Participants will have the opportunity to shadow nurses, doctors, and therapists. Depending on their profile and availability, daily responsibilities may include preparing medication, measuring blood pressure, providing basic triage, and offering wound care.
Placement within the hospital depends on both the hospital's schedule and your background, with possible departments including Anaesthesiology, Brain Injury, Mental Health (subject to limitations), Rehabilitation/Occupational therapy, Orthopaedics, Pharmacy (proficiency in Vietnamese required), Speech therapy (proficiency in Vietnamese required), Physiotherapy, Prosthetics workshop, Radiology (Ultrasound), Surgery (spine surgery, skin grafts, joint surgery), Traditional Medicine, Geriatrics, and Internal Medicine.
There may also be opportunities to observe staff in the acupuncture and occupational/physical therapy departments. While it's worth noting that the English proficiency of placement staff may vary, you will always have the support of an English-speaking coordinator from the local team. Participants are encouraged to engage with medical issues and seek guidance from the staff.
Your Role - General Information
One of the most rewarding aspects of working in healthcare or the medical field is the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of the local people in this remarkable city, even within a short timeframe. Regardless of your role's demands, the medical field provides an outlet for your desire to assist others and contribute to the community. In this program, you'll require boundless patience, energy, and a strong sense of responsibility and accountability while assisting patients with health issues.
Additionally, your general duties encompass:
- Shadowing, observing, and aiding the hospital's daily operations.
- Assisting patients/residents under the close supervision of attending doctors/nurses.
- Observing local doctors/nurses during operations and medical procedures.
- Witnessing the diagnosis and treatment of patient illnesses conducted by the doctors/nurses on duty.
- Participation in basic triage, wound care, blood pressure measurement, and medication preparation.
- Involvement in healthcare campaigns, if applicable, at local schools or communities to enhance health awareness among children.
- Engaging in the hospital's day-to-day activities.
Please note that your specific activities during your hospital stay may vary based on your background and experience.
Meanwhile, remember that you are exploring this place from a different perspective, so throughout your stay, you are expected to adhere to all stated rules and regulations and keep the following considerations in mind. These guidelines are implemented for your safety during your stay with us.
During the Medical Placement:
- Work for a minimum of five (5) hours a day at the placement.
- Wear a medical scrub during working hours, either bring one with you or rent one at the accommodation upon arrival if available.
- Punctuality is essential, so always arrive at the hospital prepared.
- Display patience and kindness while working with patients of varying medical conditions.
- Maintain a composed and considerate demeanour in diverse situations.
- Be attentive to patient care, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Handle hospital and medical equipment with care.
- Show empathy and care to patients as if you were their family.
- Be flexible regarding changes in time and schedules and respect advice from your local program coordinator.
- Always be respectful of local staff, fellow participants, patients, and hospital personnel.
- Adhere to the hospital's rules and regulations.
- Familiarize yourself with the hospital's medical protocols, procedures, and guidelines.
- Collaborate closely with your local program coordinator and hospital staff.
Please note that there is an extended lunch break, as locals typically rest from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Additionally, the specific rules and regulations will be further discussed by the local staff or the Country Manager a day after your arrival.
Please be aware that this program does not run during public holidays. However, you can partake in local celebrations or explore alternative programs like the Food Shop Program. Please communicate in English throughout the program. *During the Lunar New Year and other holidays, a special program may be run.
Location
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is home to some 6 million people, most of whom you will see at some point during your stay as they whiz around town on their motorbikes. The city’s Tan Son Nhat Airport lies 7km north west of the city centre and is the most popular arrival point in Vietnam for international travellers. As well as long haul arrivals there are many flights to HCMC from within Asia, especially from Bangkok and Hong Kong.
Project Tasks
- Gain insight into the Vietnamese healthcare system and practices
- Observe and shadow local medical professionals at a hospital in Ho Chi Minh
- Broaden your perspective of overseas medical care and treatments