Re: Jobs that you can create on your own
Having just completed our Medical Screening Mission to Benguet Province (N Central Luzon Mountain Region) in the township of Sinipsip, I can give you some idea of the work and costs involved.
The complete write up of this first mission phase can be read (with photo's as well!) at:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Baguio...ain%20Mission/
In a quick summary, 88 children and young adults were examined and treated by a team of 30 nurses, nurse students, dentists and students, MD's and Optometrist. 22 surgical procedures, (from circumcisions to suturing a torn cheek) plus eye screening, dental screening and cleaning and Basic Emergency Lifesaving Skills were taught.
48,000 pesos were spent (about 1,000USD) on medical supplies, transportation costs, food, hygiene kits for the clients.
All nurses and student nurses from the University of the Cordilleras in Baguio and the Doctors all volunteered their time and US Veterans of the VFW Post 124 in Baguio provided the transport, food, and cheer leading!
However, a medical mission to the children is only THE BEGINNING!! We have identified 39 clients who need thorough eye exams and prescriptions for corrective lenses. In addition, 72 clients need extensive dental work. We are making final arrangements with the Pines College of Dentistry to provide the dental staff and take the children to the College as long as we provide all of the necessary surgical supplies, and pay for the materials only. We will transport the kids in 2 or 3 groups to the college (about 3 hours each way).
Eye exams and glasses are the next challenge for us. Meetings will take place next week to raise funds and seek professionals to treat these very deserving and needy Filipinos.
If you do plan your medical mission, plan on following up with at least good basic dental rehabilitation (a HUGE problem with young ones especially) and a good source is to contact your local Medical / Dental /Nursing Colleges for follow up treatment.
Fundraising is always a challenge....it takes some artful begging but can be done if presented properly to groups like Rotary, Lions, VFW..to name a few. Plan on at least 1,000usd for an average mission to 100-300 villagers, and then have a plan in place to do the follow up work on those in need (Dental, surgical, eye..etc).
It is hard work!! But it is very rewarding indeed for your efforts to give back to those less fortunate. This mission was the result of 4 student nurses and rank amature volunteer support who wanted to do something RIGHT NOW so you can imagine if professional licensed nurses and doctors decide to do this that the outcome can be much more productive!
Cheers
Hoss
Nursing News