After a really long journey, we have finally made it to Mongu and finished our first week of practice! We spent our first week in the HIV/Antiretroviral Therapy(ART) clinic. We were very lucky to have worked with an amazing team who all took us under their wing at some point during the week. We truly admire and are in awe of the passion and hard work that they put into their jobs everyday.
Throughout the week, we had the opportunity to work in triage, medication adherence, pharmacy, screening, as well as alongside the physician during patient appointments. Even though the disease burden is very high, the staff here has been providing excellent care to all patients, despite limited resources and staff shortages. It is amazing to see the dedication they possess.
The most meaningful experience of the week for both of us was screening and counselling. We were able to watch two screenings, both done by a trained counsellor. While waiting for the results, we were both incredibly nervous that the results would be positive and how life changing that news must be for the patient. Our fears were quickly put to rest after seeing two negative results and seeing how good the counsellor was with the patients. The conversations he had were caring and compassionate. He always made sure to let the patients know that they would be supported regardless of the result.
While in the ART clinic, we learned that 50 people got new HIV diagnoses at Lewanika General Hospital in the last month alone. This statistic was very shocking to us as we have both only seen 5 cases of HIV in the last 4 years of practice in Canada. The counsellor in medication adherence also informed that she sees upwards of 700 patients per day. This speaks volumes about the disease burden of HIV in Zambia. Although it may seem overwhelming, it is refreshing to see the hard work and dedication that the health care team has towards their clients.
We look forward to being back in the ART clinic again next week and will keep you updated!
Laura and Jill :)
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