The Journey Begins: Preparing for my Medical Rotation in Rural Angola

 

        


About ME!

Welcome to The Rural Rounds! I'm Shivangi Patel, a 4th year medical student from Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (OUHCOM) in Athens, OH with a passion for global health and serving underserved communities. Throughout my medical journey, I've sought out experiences that challenge me, broaden my perspective, and reinforce my commitment to providing compassionate and effective care where it's needed most. Now, I'm about to embark on one of the most exciting and transformative experiences yet: a medical school rotation in rural Angola. My month-long journey begins on March 25th. 

As I prepare for my upcoming medical rotation in rural Angola, I can't help but reflect on the journey that led me here. Having been passionate about working in underserved regions, my past medical mission trips have played a huge role in shaping my perspective and strengthening my commitment to global health. I have traveled to India, Ecuador, Honduras, and Costa Rica for missionary work or research. Whether it was providing care in remote areas or learning from local communities, these experiences have profoundly impacted my understanding of medicine and the importance of healthcare access for all. 

During my time in Angola, I'll be immersed in the realities of rural healthcare where resources are limited. This rotation is more than just an educational experience - it's a continuation of my dedication to serving communities in need.

As I move forward in my medical career, I am determined to continue working in underserved regions. Whether it's through mission trips or long-term initiatives, I am committed to making a difference and contributing to the health and well-being of those who need it most. 


Why Angola?



Dr. Tim Kubacki is treating people with illnesses/injuries and leading community efforts to improve the physical and spiritual health of the people in Cavango and surrounding villages. He is targeting unreached people groups in the impoverished and severely remote southeast part of the country. Angola is a country rich in history, culture, and resilience, yet access to healthcare remains a significant challenge in many rural regions. This rotation will allow me to step outside the walls of a traditional hospital and into a setting where resources are limited, but the need for care is immense. I'll be working alongside Dr. Kubacki and local healthcare providers, learning from their expertise, and adapting to the unique challenges of practicing medicine in a low-resource environment. 



What to Expect!

Once my journey begins, I'll be sharing my experiences on The Rural Rounds. Here's what you can look forward to:

  • Daily Insights - stories from the clinic, challenges faced, and lessons learned
  • Cultural Immersion - the beauty of Angola's people, traditions, and way of life
  • Medical Realities - how healthcare operates in rural settings and what we can learn from it
  • Personal Growth - the highs, lows, and everything in between as I navigate this new experience

I hope this blog serves as both a personal reflection and an informative resource for other interested in global health, medical missions, and the reality of working in underserved areas.

As I prepare for departure, I feel a mix of excitement and nerves. There's so much to learn, and I know this journey will challenge me in ways I can't yet anticipate. But one thing is certain - I'm ready to embrace it all.

Stay tuned for more updates as The Rural Rounds officially begins!

 


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