I decided a year ago that it would be great to travel, improve my rusty Spanish and get some experience with health care provision in another country. Last summer I worked at both Fulton State Hospital and Jefferson City Medical Group to earn extra funds to allow me to go while on my break from my student health job at William Woods University this summer.
This winter, I searched the web and asked those who may know about projects in Mexico and Central America where I could study Spanish and provide some service in a clinic setting. I expect to learn more than I can ever provide to the host community. Bill and I have may want to work in another country someday. This is me testing out this idea.
I found wonderful programs in Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and Nicaragua. Each had advantages and disadvantages. I corresponded with the different organizations and settled with a program sponsored by Child Family Health International (CFHI) in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico. CFHI provides service learning programs for students in health professions in many different countries. The staff of CFHI was kind enough to overlook my lack of student status and allow me to participate in their program. CFHI provides liaison to the language school, to clinics and arranges a homestay with a local family.
So, I am going to Mexico to learn more Spanish and to try out working in health care in another country. I am going this summer because my children don't need me on a day to day basis and I have the luxury of time off from my primary job and funds from my secondary jobs. I am very fortunate for all of these blessings.
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