Britany Duclos

During COVID, I participated in a virtual global health fellowship and volunteering program. I learned so much about health disparities around the world and differences in healthcare systems.

However, I knew that I had much more to learn. When I heard about Work The World in medical school, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to observe and learn more about the differences between the healthcare system and its access barriers in Canada and abroad.

On my first day of placement, I walked into the ward, and it was nothing like the one back home. There were a lot of people, patients and professionals alike, and it was full of energy. I thrive in organised chaos, so this environment was really stimulating.

The most valuable skill I picked up was learning how to find my place in the clinical setting and interact with supervisors. Since I haven’t started clerkship yet, this skill will prove immensely useful. I also practised reading X-rays a lot, which helped me train my eyes to notice the details in images.

The clinical lessons at the house also complemented my learning experiences in the hospital. The clinical lessons highlighted key differences in the management of certain conditions, considering cultural and resource differences.

I saw CPR being performed for the first time, which, at first, was scary, but I feel like this experience opened my eyes to the reality doctors face in the clinical setting and how their actions have an impact on people’s lives.

The healthcare systems in Canada and Sri Lanka are very different. One key difference I noticed was that doctors in Sri Lanka had to be really creative when tackling some cases. One afternoon, I walked into the OR and saw the consultant drilling into a wooden panel. The team then told me about a scoliosis surgery that was scheduled for the following week, for which they did not have an appropriate table.

Local staff had to use their resources to make the surgery possible, which I found really admirable. Another significant difference is the complementarity of Western medicine and Ayurvedic medicine. I learned a lot about the role Ayurvedic medicine plays in the heart and beliefs of the population, and how it works hand in hand with Western medicine to offer a different approach to care, which is quite different from what I saw in Canada.

After placement, my housemates and I would either relax by the pool or discover Kandy. Kandy is a city full of traditions and hidden gems. Learning the history and the traditions of Kandy was one of my trip highlights.

Whether it was walking around the lake, watching the sunset at viewpoints, exploring temples and learning about Buddhism, or making friends with the amazing local people, my time in Kandy was an experience of a lifetime.

During the weekends, we would travel away from the city to explore Sigiriya's history, hike and chase waterfalls in Ella, or enjoy the beach and water sports on the coast. Sri Lanka really has it all.

If you're thinking about doing it, DO IT!! It truly was the experience of a lifetime. It was eye-opening. I had the most fantastic summer, and I can’t believe it’s already over. I created countless unforgettable memories and made many friends who became my family during this adventure. I wish I could go back. I would definitely choose Work The World over and over again for their outstanding service and warm welcome, which made me feel like part of the family.