What You Should Know About Medical Volunteering Abroad

Many people who work in the medical industry do so because they want to be able to help people who are sick. The problem is that job satisfaction in the industry is also decreasing, especially since the pandemic started. Some are getting exhausted, while others are simply looking for a change in the environment. 

On the other hand, there are people who may or may not be working in the medical field but want to be of help in hospitals or areas that need medical volunteers. 

Whether you’re a doctor, a nurse, a dentist, or someone with or without a medical background, you can explore medical volunteering abroad. Here’s what you can expect from being a medical volunteer overseas:

Benefits of Medical Volunteering

When you become a medical volunteer abroad, you’re giving yourself a chance to do the following:

1. Help those who are in need of medical attention.
2. See how the medical world works in other countries.
3. Gather useful medical experience.
4. Learn more about the culture of the country you’re working in.
5. Learn about the language of the country you’re in.
6. Learn about local medical facilities and establishments.
7. Add to your medical resume and new skills to your medical profile.
8. Gain self-confidence and self-esteem.

Challenges You’ll Likely Face

While there are a lot of benefits to being a medical volunteer abroad, there are also some challenges you’re likely to face. You can expect the following:

The Challenge of Absence

When you’re working abroad, you’re going to be apart from your friends and family. This means that you’re going to have to deal with the absence of people you’re close to. It’s important that you learn how to deal with the actual distance.

The Challenge of Language

Another big challenge you’re likely to face is communicating in a different language. You’re going to have to learn how to communicate with people in their language and not yours. This may seem like a daunting task, but if you’re up to it, it can be an interesting experience.

The Challenge of Lifestyle

Medical volunteers often have to change their lifestyles in order to be able to fit in when they’re living in a different country. This means giving up your hobbies, time with your old friends, your favourite foods, and even your schedule. This can be hard to do, but it’s a necessary sacrifice to make.

How You Can Prepare for Medical Volunteer Work

There are some simple things you can do in order to prepare yourself to become a medical volunteer. Here are some of the things you can do:

1. Make sure you have a valid passport.
2. Make sure you have the right visa.
3. Make sure you have enough medical experience and the necessary licence.
4. Make sure you have the right vaccinations.
5. Make sure your family and friends are aware of your volunteering work.
6. Write a checklist of items to bring.
7. Prepare a list of things you can do to learn about the local language and culture.
8. Prepare yourself mentally.

You’re not going to be able to prepare for everything that comes with becoming a medical volunteer, but you can certainly prepare for some things.

So, Are You Ready to Volunteer at a Hospital?

If you’re willing to devote your time and serve through medical volunteering abroad, there is a big chance that you’ll be able to help people and save lives. You’ll also be able to add to your resume a really interesting experience.

When you decide to do hospital volunteering abroad, your medical skills will be put to good use. If you’re interested, Volunteering Solutions can help you. We are an international organisation that can provide you with meaningful opportunities abroad. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our volunteer programs!