Working abroad - developing countries
What they do
This work tends to be in emergency relief, development work in
building medical infrastructures, running clinics and medical
education programmes. Posts range from six months to two or
three years and offer the opportunity to gain valuable experience
and other highly rewarding returns in some of the most challenged
environments in the world. Doctors are frequently needed at short
notice.
Volunteers usually need at least 2-3 years post-graduate
training, with some programmes preferring applicants who are
undertaking specialty training. The most useful specialties are
general practice, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, trauma
and surgery.
Entry requirements vary between programmes, as does the support
that volunteers will receive. Support that programmes offer
:include: pre-departure training, monthly allowances,
accommodation, flights, insurance, pension payments, membership
fees and even maintaining journal
subscriptions.
Personal qualities and strengths
The capacity to adapt to different cultures, multi-disciplinary
teams and environments is essential. Previous experience of living
abroad is helpful. Additional languages such as Spanish or French,
and non-clinical skills such as administration, teaching and
leadership will also prove useful in environments where the remit
often stretches beyond that you would expect from a clinical role
in the UK.
In addition to experience in obstetrics and gynaecology, accident
and emergency, public health, infectious diseases, general practice
or paediatrics, a diploma in tropical medicine and hygiene could
also be advantageous.
In preparation
Speak to people who have experience of working in developing
countries and visit aid agency websites to read accounts of what is
like to live and work in that environment and tips for those who
are thinking of going. Often agencies seek those who already have
experience, so if you are looking to undertake this for the first
time, head to the International Health Exchange to find out more
about your routes in.
Outlook for the future
With the introduction of MMC, it is difficult to identify the
best time to pursue experience abroad. Some programmes, for
examples VSO, are for specialty registrars undertaking higher
specialty training. Individuals can arrange < 12 month
placements with VSO which are accredited as part of their training
programme. The programme is open to individuals in their
third/fourth years of specialty training in paediatrics and child
health, third/fourth/fifth year of specialty public health training
and fourth/fifth year of specialty training in obstetrics and
gynaecology. It is important to note that not all training
will be recognised and if you are planning on undertaking time out
of your training in the NHS you should speak to your programme
director or postgraduate dean.
Further information