Today as usual, the group split into
two. My group went to a rural
government health center. The trip to the health center was an experience to
say the least. It took us an hour and a half (instead of the usual 30 minutes)
due to the fact that the traffic was horrendous. The “simbas” (police) were out
early today to start their daily car inspections. Thankfully we did not get
pulled over. However, this did not speed up the process as cars, trucks, piki
piki (motorcycle) and dalla dallas (public transportations) were going every
which way with no sense of direction. Once we got off the main road the
adventure continued, the road to the health center was a bumpy ride. I do not
usually get carsick but this was a first, I needed to close my eyes and not
look at the road. It was a relief to finally arrive at the health center. Once we got there we found out that due
to a lack of equipment this health center is being run as a dispensary. A dispensary deals with basic needs,
similar to a primary care center we would have in Canada. The doctor and
clinical officer were really educational. We participated in rounds and were
quizzed on our knowledge and application.
During our tour of the place we were told that the clinic is in dire
need of a new water supply system, as the well is no longer filling with water.
This well also is the water supply for the town. It is sad to think that the government could do something
about it but they do not. It is
always nice to feel welcomed when we go to the clinics. We always learn a lot and
gain new knowledge about the Tanzanian health care system.
Cheers!!!
Alix
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