Healthcare Internships Abroad: Expectations When Interning in Kenya

Interning in Kenya offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain practical medical experience, immerse yourself in a vibrant and diverse culture, and grow both professionally and personally. However, like any international internship, it comes with its unique challenges and rewards. Here’s what you can expect when embarking on a medical internship in Kenya, and how to make the most of your experience.

1. Culture Shock: Embrace the Diversity

Kenya is a land of contrasts, from the bustling streets of Nairobi and Mombasa to the tranquil, scenic landscapes of rural villages. The country’s diversity will likely surprise and challenge you, whether you’re adapting to the fast pace of city life or immersing yourself in local customs in quieter regions.

While culture shock is a natural part of the transition, it’s also an opportunity to broaden your horizons. The Kenyan way of life, with its mix of modernity and tradition, offers enriching experiences that will deepen your understanding of different cultures. To manage this adjustment:

• Be open-minded and curious about local traditions and social customs.
• Engage with your surroundings, whether it’s trying new foods, learning a few words of Swahili, or participating in cultural events.
• Stay patient with yourself and embrace the unknown—it’s all part of the adventure.
  
  

2. Lack of Resources in Hospitals: Adapt and Innovate

Healthcare facilities in Kenya, particularly in rural areas, often face resource constraints. You may find that medical supplies, equipment, or even medications are in short supply. While this may be different from what you're used to, it presents a valuable learning experience.

Interning in Kenya will teach you to be flexible and adaptive in patient care. You’ll gain skills in innovative problem-solving and learn to provide care with limited resources. These are critical skills in any healthcare setting, and the experience will strengthen your ability to think on your feet and make decisions with available tools.

3. Doctor-to-Patient Ratio: A Unique Learning Opportunity

Kenya’s doctor-to-patient ratio is significantly different from what you may experience in developed countries. You may observe that healthcare professionals in Kenya often handle large numbers of patients in a single day, particularly in public hospitals such as Coast General Teaching & Referral Hospital (CGTRH), in Mombasa.

In CGTRH, doctors serve a population of about 3 million people. While specialists are available, they are supported by around 30 residents, 35 general practitioners, 40 interns, and 200 clinical officers and their interns.

While this may seem overwhelming at first, it’s a great learning opportunity. You’ll witness firsthand how doctors and nurses manage their time, prioritize care, and provide treatment in high-pressure situations. This will teach you valuable lessons about time management, patient care efficiency, and working within a demanding environment.

4. Communication Challenges: Bridging Language Gaps

English and Swahili are widely spoken in Kenya, but in rural areas or specific communities, you may encounter language barriers. This can initially pose a challenge when trying to communicate with patients or staff. However, it also offers a unique chance to enhance your cross-cultural communication skills. 

• Learning basic Swahili phrases can go a long way in building rapport with patients.
• Body language, patience, and attentiveness can help overcome language barriers.
• This experience will help you develop empathy and active listening, vital skills for any healthcare professional.
  
  

5. Healthcare Disparities: Eye-Opening Realities

Interning in Kenya will expose you to healthcare disparities that exist due to economic, social, or geographic factors. You may work in facilities that serve underprivileged populations, where access to healthcare is limited and treatment options are restricted.

This experience is often a profound and eye-opening one, reminding you of the importance of global health equity. It may inspire you to contribute to positive change in healthcare access and advocacy, both during your internship and in your future career.

6. Patient Numbers and Caseload

Expect to witness a busy environment, as many Kenyan hospitals handle a large number of cases daily. Here’s an overview of the number of patients and cases you might experience during your internship:

• Internal Medicine: Over 100 inpatient clients at any given time.
• Surgery: Around 70 admitted clients with about 7 surgeries happening daily.
• Obstetrics and Gynecology: On average, 50 deliveries happen each day, with about 10 cesarean sections.
• Pediatrics: Around 300 inpatient clients at any given time.
• Outpatient Department: Handles about 500 cases per day.
• Emergency Department: Treats about 70 cases per day.
• Dental Department: Around 15 procedures occur daily.

These patient numbers will give you a first-hand experience of healthcare delivery in a busy, resource-limited setting. It’s a great chance to see how healthcare professionals work efficiently under pressure while still delivering quality care.

7. Adaptability and Resilience: Thriving Amidst Challenges

Kenya’s healthcare environment may challenge your adaptability and resilience. Whether it’s dealing with infrastructure issues, long working hours, or unexpected medical situations, your experience will test your ability to stay calm and focused in challenging circumstances.

These challenges, however, will shape you into a more resilient healthcare professional. You’ll leave with a stronger sense of confidence in your ability to handle stressful environments, think critically, and adapt to the unexpected—skills that will serve you throughout your medical career.

Why Choose Go Elective for Your Internship in Kenya?

At Go Elective, we prioritize accessibility, affordability, and hassle-free experiences for our interns. Our programs in Kenya are designed to provide you with invaluable hands-on experience in real-world medical settings, all while being supported by experienced local professionals.

• Affordability: We offer some of the most competitive pricing for international internships, understanding that students are often on a budget.
• Accessibility: We ensure that our programs are open and accessible to students from across the globe, including affiliations with institutions in the US.
• Hassle-Free: From placement in hospitals to arranging accommodations, we handle all the logistics so you can focus on gaining experience and learning.
  
  

Conclusion: Embrace the Challenge and Grow

Interning in Kenya is more than just a medical placement—it’s a journey of personal and professional growth. From navigating cultural differences to adapting to resource-limited healthcare settings, you will face challenges that test your flexibility, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities. But with these challenges come invaluable lessons that will shape your future career as a healthcare professional.

Whether you're drawn by the opportunity to experience global health disparities or motivated by the chance to develop your clinical skills in a new environment, Kenya offers an unforgettable internship experience. Embrace it with an open mind, and you’ll leave with new skills, new perspectives, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse world of healthcare.

Ready to start your Kenyan internship journey? Join Go Elective and embark on a transformative medical experience today!

Article Details

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, Medical Electives, Travel Tips, Dental Internships, Nursing Internships,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Dec 16, 2024