To the Himalayas!

Much has changed since I started this blog. Nepal has a democratically elected government, and things are starting to improve in the healthcare sector and for human rights in general. My International Health endeavours were put on hold during my third year clerkship, in which I found myself working up to 100 hours a week at times, rotating through the various fields, and learning far more than I ever imagined possible. While it was exhausting and a bit soul-sucking, but the clinical experience was welcomed after years of didactic education. I liked most aspects of everything I tried; the procedural aspect of surgery, the puzzle solving of Internal Medicine, the adrenaline of ER/Anesthesia, the patient connections in Psychiatry, etc. are all things I hope will one day be a part of my practice.

Seeking variety in the work, the patient population, the location of the work, and the hours, I think I’ve found my match. I’ve decided to become a Family Doctor (with dabblings in Emergency Medicine, Surgical Assists, Public Health, International Health, and possibly more…). It really seems the most flexible for a person like me who likes a bit of everything, and most importantly, enjoys balance in life.

Now I’m in my fourth and final year, doing electives of my own choosing (1 month each of Anesthesia, ER, and then Family Practice) before some refresher classes in December. Simultaneously, I’m filling out applications for residency, praying that the program of my choice will take me, and that I will make the right choices along the way.

I also have the opportunity to do another International Elective in March 2009. It would only be 1 month long. I have not yet decided where or in which field I would like to do this. Haiti might be a good fit for me, as the need is strong and my medical French is under development, but it might be too dangerous right now. French-speaking Africa also appeals, but a month seems too short to find a niche and also to justify the cost. A return to Nepal or Northern India will be in my future, but I definitely want to commit a much greater time there as well. I have considered work with the Maori in New Zealand as there are strong parallels Canada’s own aboriginal population. There are lots of great options, but again, I struggle to find an ethical, sustainable program that will facilitate the maximum contribution from me, given my level of training.

Time is short.