University of Otago 2025
I wanted to travel somewhere I had never been before and immerse myself in a different culture. One aspect I wanted to experience was an under-resourced healthcare system, unlike my previous experience in New Zealand. Many colleagues had travelled to various locations in Tanzania and highly recommended it!
My first impressions of my placement hospital were overwhelming in a good way! Many practices were so different from what I was used to in New Zealand. For example, the sanitisation of instruments and patient privacy stood out. I was greeted by staff who were friendly, welcoming, and very interested; it was a lovely surprise.
I learned more in-depth about medical conditions that are endemic to Tanzania, such as malaria, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and African trypanosomiasis. I was then able to correlate these with the clinical signs and symptoms present in patients. This was very important to me, as those conditions are uncommon in New Zealand.
I was involved in many memorable cases during my placement. I saw a woman in labour diagnosed with an IUFD - it was quite shocking to witness how the news was delivered, especially in contrast to how it would be delivered to the mother in New Zealand.
I also participated in a case of intra-partum psychosis caused by an epileptic fit. The woman was combative, requiring a sedative and an emergency C-section. Other cases I observed included a patient with tuberculosis meningitis and a young man experiencing cardiac arrest due to intestinal obstruction.
The main differences between the local healthcare system and that of New Zealand were resources, sterilisation and the number of visitors. In Tanzania, they often reused supplies, such as hand-folded gauze, and there were buckets of chlorine used for instrument sterilisation.
I found it special that patients’ visitors (who came every day) supplied food and belongings to their loved ones. Primary care is less prevalent here, and many people don’t seek healthcare until they are very unwell and in need of hospitalisation.
Being here for six weeks meant we had lots of time to explore Tanzania. It is such a diverse country, close to many beautiful spots. During the evenings, we’d swim in the pool, play cards, explore local restaurants, and do karaoke at home. On weekends, we’d travel a bit further, visiting Zanzibar, going on a safari in the Serengeti, and taking day trips to local islands.
I had the opportunity to travel outside of my placement, for which I was very grateful. I learned so much about the history of Tanzania, local tribes, culture, and language. I also had the privilege of being welcomed into another hospital, healthcare system, and culture.
To others who might be considering undertaking a Work the World placement, I’d say don’t be nervous! Everyone is super helpful and friendly. You won’t regret it; soak it all in, and you will leave with memories and friendships that last forever.
