Medicine Volunteer Stories, Bolivia

Medicine in Bolivia by Elizabeth Leith When I told people that for my gap year I wanted to spend time working in a health clinic in Bolivia I was faced by many different responses; ‘is that safe for an 18 year old girl on their own’? Or ‘how fun’! And pretty often ‘Bo-where’?

Physiotherapy in Bolivia - Victoria Eastham I was initially drawn to Bolivia because of the placement. I qualified from a degree in Physiotherapy last year and wasn’t quite ready to join the real world. Volunteering is something I have always wanted to do and this placement in Cochabamaba, Bolivia was something I thought I would both learn from and be able to give something to. It also meant I would be able to combine this with new experiences, travelling and learning about new cultures.

Medicine in Bolivia - Chris Jones I chose to go to Bolivia in South America and was working in El Centro de Salud in Sarcobamba, on the outskirts of the city. The host family I was placed with was very welcoming, caring and understanding. They provided me with everything that I needed to be happy and comfortable, and so did the staff from Projects Abroad. The house I was living in was in close proximity to my placement so it was always easy to get to work quickly.

Medicine in Bolivia - Siobhan Ni Cheidigh Bolivia is a fantastic country. There are loads of places to travel so take advantage of the time you have there and see all those places. Make an effort to contact other volunteers that are there and have your nights out because it has great places to eat, drink and dance and all very cheap. I really can't say enough about the place, so really enjoy your time there and try not to miss your home country because nothing will have changed when you go back.