But how would the planned second medical camp be received by the people from the nearby settlements, and how would our Awasi team be able to organize it? This time it had been extended to two days and supplemented with additional medical specialists.
Medical specialists, such as ophthalmologists and gynecologists, supported the health workers and clinical officers — who are familiar with the local conditions — in addressing specific issues.
We two ‘Austrian Doctors’ as well (Pia Nigisch as a gynecologist and I as a pediatrician) were able to learn new things through professional exchange and contribute with our medical expertise.
After the clinical examination and the laboratory findings, all necessary medications were available in our pharmacy and could be provided to our patients free of charge.
Thus, over the two days, more than 400 children and adults could be examined and treated.
We predominantly saw the full spectrum of chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, eye and vision problems, gastrointestinal disorders, and a variety of infections.
Surprisingly, there was a high number of cases of both subacute and acute malaria, and several patients had to be urgently referred for hospital treatment.
Overall, this second medical camp at our community center was a well-organized and highly meaningful addition to the diverse activities of our Mary Hill project in Awasi.
The plan is to continue offering this on a monthly basis with a consistently small team of local staff, in order to provide even better medical care, especially for patients with chronic conditions.
Best regards,
Your Christian Gross
