The Medical Program
This important program was created with the goal of shared learning in a medical environment. Medical Interns are placed in a busy private hospital in Wattala, a suburb of the country’s capital and largest city Colombo. The placement offers medical students and qualified professionals the opportunity to spend time interning at a large private hospital. Between 300-700 in and outpatients from surrounding communities visit the hospital on a daily basis for a range of medical treatments. Every aspect of the internship is carefully monitored by the supervising staff and it is important to note that interns only observe and are not involved in hands on patient care. Qualified medical professionals can request registration with the Ministry of Health in Sri Lanka (please allow 2 months lead time).
Goals of this Project:
- Provide cross-cultural communication between volunteers and locals, share knowledge and exchange ideas
- Offer a learning experience for pre-med and medical students
- Support the medical community in Sri Lanka through increased awareness and funding.
How You Can Help
This volunteer program offers the chance to observe local staff and procedures in a busy hospital. Qualified professionals are encouraged to provide their medical certificates and request registration with the Ministry of Health. Responsibilities on the medical project will vary according to volunteer’s qualifications, experience and/or comfort level, as well as the needs of the hospital or facility. Participants with a full medical degree who register with the Ministry will often enjoy far more access when it comes to administering care and interacting with patients, but it is important to note that most interns only observe. This program provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for medical students to monitor, observe and help where appropriate, gaining far more experience than many Western hospitals would offer.
Volunteers contribute in a number of ways on the program and can expect to:
- Network with local residents and local project staff
- Help with medical care as appropriate to the volunteer’s skills and training
Requirements
This program offers an amazing opportunity for suitable applicants who are 18 years and over to work alongside qualified medical professionals and gain first-hand insight into the Sri Lankan healthcare system. It is open to those with experience and/or education in the field of medicine, as well as med-school and pre-med students. Ideally, volunteers on this project will have at least a basic knowledge of the local language in order to communicate effectively with patients and staff, though this is not a pre-requisite. Naturally, all applicants must also have a genuine willingness to help, show drive and initiative, and bring a positive 'can-do' attitude. If this sounds like you, we want you on the team!
Additionally, volunteers applying to join this program will be required to supply to following documentation:
- Emergency contact
- Medical Qualification
- Passport
- References
- Resume
Project Location
Volunteers on this program are based in Wattala, 10 mins away from the capital city of Colombo.
Colombo was once known as the 'Garden City of the East' and still retains shady boulevards redolent of this era. The city has grown exponentially since then, however, with construction and commerce driving forces.
Thankfully the heart and history of the city is resurfacing through the restoration of colonial architecture, particularly in the Fort area, and buzzing local markets, beaches, shopping and delicious local food await the international visitor.
Start Dates & Duration
This project is available year-round and programs start every SATURDAY. Volunteers can choose to participate for periods ranging from 1 week to 8 weeks. Longer stays can be arranged directly with the local team, but will be subject to availability and individual visa conditions.
For current available start dates please check the calendar on the right.
Arrival & Orientation
Upon arrival into Colombo you will be met at the airport by our local team and transferred to the Volunteer Center in Wattala to meet with your hosts and settle in.
An orientation session will take place on Sunday to cover local and regional customs, basic words and phrases, transport and, of course, what to expect from your volunteering experience. This is a great opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
- Arrival Day: SATURDAY
- Departure Day: SATURDAY
- Arrival Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo, Sri Lanka (Code: CMB)
Accommodation & Meals
Volunteers on this wonderful program are accommodated with trusted local host families in Watalla.
Host families are experienced at caring for our volunteers and make everyone feel welcome. Their homes may be basic by international standards but this is more than made up for by generosity of spirit.
Bedding, Wifi and laundry facilities are available free of charge. Volunteers need only bring a towel and personal toiletries.
Three simple and delicious meals are provided daily by the host family. Sri Lankan cuisine is redolent of many neighbouring countries including Thailand, Vietnam and Indian. Full of flavoursome spices it is sure to delight every palate. Staples of rice and a wide range of curries are accompanied by divine vegetable dishes and condiments such as the chilli based sambal.
Note: transport to and from the placement is by Tuk Tuk and costs approx. US$12.
Fees
That’s just USD 87 per day* for:
*In addition to the program fees listed above a Registration Fee is payable to secure your place. The registration fee is USD 299 for those volunteering with Love Volunteers for the first time or USD 149 for any subsequent volunteer placements. The registration fee includes: lifetime LV Alumni Membership, fundraising support & advice, dedicated pre-departure support, certificate of completion (on request), and exclusive access to the LV Trip Planner.
Some things are not included in the program fees listed above, such as flights, visas, vaccinations, travel insurance, additional foods and snacks, spending money, local transport, in-country trips and excursions, return airport transfer (unless mentioned above).
Please note that prices are subject to change without notice. Please ensure you have read the Love Volunteers Terms and Conditions & Refund Policy.