These first few days have been so full of life and experiences! When we arrived on Wednesday, we went on a tour of the area where we were staying. We went to the beach as well as walked by the local mosque and experienced our first taste of traditional moroccan tajeen. We visited the area where an association of almost 400 pharmacists work to improve the healthcare system here in Morocco. One of the Pharmacists gave us a presentation on healthcare, including its delivery, how it is funded, and some statistics about how successful it is at treating the population. We learn that their biggest problems are minimal funding from the government, about 5% of governmental budget pays for healthcare, and lack of medical professionals. The doctor patient ratio is extremely low.
Thursday: We got up bright and early and went to the local hospital where we observed surgery for the morning. We were able to see cesarean sections, natural births, tumor resections, a gallbladder removal, and a few forms of endoscopy. Following another wonderful lunch, we went to a local college for design and digital coding and learned about drawing portraits. We spent some time talking with the students and learning about their college lifestyle as well as telling them about ours. This experience really helped us gain a more cross cultural view of college and learn about some of the similarities and differences of college both logistically and socially. Friday: Following another busy morning of shadowing surgery and learning from the surgeons, nurses, nurse anesthetist, and anesthesiologist, we packed our things in the car and drove 7 hours to the city of Tata to prepare for rural health clinic. Saturday: On Saturday we conducted our first day of rural health clinic. Along with us, pharmacists, doctors, specialists, dentists, and opthomologists provide free medical care to patients. They fill prescriptions for free and screen for diabetes, hepatitis, and high blood pressure. We saw over 600 patients. Following clinic we returned to the camp ground/hostel and enjoyed lunch and relaxed while a traditional music group performed for us. Sunday: On Sunday, we conducted clinic in another nearby rural city where we saw another almost 700 patients. So far, I feel as though I am meeting my goals quickly while also enjoying my time spent here in Morocco. I have learned so much and am still learning all the time. Not only have I been humbled and become even ore grateful for my life, but I have found a new appreciation for nature and taking time to enjoy it while we can.
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AuthorMy name is Erika Bolduc. I am a second year Master of Physician Assistant Studies student at MCPHS University in Boston, MA. Archives
January 2020
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