Beautiful Patients
Guanaja - Day 3
Monday, September 8 - Our first day of clinic began with a fast-moving thunderstorm that threatened to get us off to a wet start, but the timing could not have been more perfect and it passed through before we jumped on the boat for our morning commute to Guanaja Clinic of St. Camillus. By 8:30 we were set up and eagerly receiving patients with the help of cheerful local volunteers and clinic staff. We learned that on the island there is no back up for the local clinic staff. They are on every day, all the time. If an injury or illness presents, they are the boots on the ground. So, for some, the rare experience of having backup from a P4GH team, locally known as The Brigade, can mean a shorter day or well deserved time off, while others take advantage of the partnership to learn or work alongside American physicians.
On the patient end, a typical clinic experience begins with being greeted at the door by the triage team, who take basic information and vitals, before being seen by the provider team that will best address the needs. If medication or vitamins are prescribed, the pharmacy is there to fill scripts free of charge thanks to the generous donations of P4GH friends. Medication and vitamins are difficult to come by for lots of reasons, but access and cost are primary deterrents. So, when the opportunity to receive care and medication free of charge is offered, it is a huge gift to many families and individuals even prompting one gentleman to walk an hour and a half this morning to come to the clinic. After receiving treatment, guests of the clinic are invited to pick up items at the clinic store, such as small toys for children, Bibles, reading and sun glasses, etc, also free of charge. Often we see patients return with family members or friends because they’re so pleased with the care they received.
After a full, satisfying day, the ocean beckoned many of the team into the warm waters of the Bay Islands steps away from our rooms. It was the perfect way to relax and share stories of the day before dinner. The consensus was that it was that the first day met or exceeded expectations and we’re all so thankful to be here experiencing the welcome, kindness and beauty of Honduras.