Week one at Clinica Esperanza has been nothing short of amazing. Roatan Island in Honduras is spectacular with clear Caribbean water, stunning reefs and the most beautiful people to work with.There are several different culture groups: the Hondurans, who speak Spanish, the Black Islander’s who speak English with a beautiful accent, and then the Garifuna people, who speak Garifuna. There are also people from all over the world who come to Roatan and decide to stay. Cruise ships come in to the Island regularly as well. Clinica Esperanza was started over 15 years ago by Miss Peggy, a nurse. The clinic has grown and is now a leading source for health care on the Island. The clinic averages about 100 patients a day. There is a pediatric floor, OBGYN, and then family practice.
I am working in the adult/family area which is so perfect for me because Chronic Disease management happens to be one of my passions. (God is so good!). The most amazing of all is that I am working in collaboration with some of the most outstanding Honduran physicians. There are 4 who work in the adult area. The clinic also has an OBGYN specialist and a pediatrician who is also the Medical Director. The physicians are so generous of their time and so patient with all of my questions. (they are accustomed to having students and volunteers!). I am so thankful for the content I learned in the INMED course to prepare me for this experience. Common diseases here include malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya (which I see daily), and a great variety of parasites…I brought my INMED reference books and use them often! Next week I have the privilege of going out into the community with the Public Health Physician who developed a community education program through the clinic.
Of course, I am also enjoying the wonders of the Island: snorkeling on beautiful reefs, enjoying beautiful sunsets over the ocean (with plenty of DEET on) and eating some amazing Island food. Adios para hora. Cheryl