Episode #126: Exploring Medical Volunteering Abroad

The root cause for many physicians seeking a career change is burnout. However, for some physicians with burnout, the best solution might be participating in a different kind of clinical work to rediscover their love for the profession. Today’s guest, physician and founder of the non-profit One Good Turn, Dr. Ann Messer, is here to share how a volunteer trip changed the entire trajectory of her career. She’ll discuss the ins and outs of medical volunteer opportunities, including how to prepare and what to expect on your trip. 

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode126

 

In this episode we’re talking about:

• How a Christmastime epiphany led Dr. Messer to realize her family needed a change
• The ethics of providing healthcare in low-income countries
• Where to find vetted medical volunteer opportunities
• Why Ann finds her work so fulfilling
• What day-to-day life is like on a medical volunteer trip
• Requirements and skills needed for medical volunteer work
• Dr. Messer’s reading list for physicians who are interested in volunteering

 

Links for this episode:

One Good Turn - Dr. Messer’s non-profit organization

Recommendations by Dr. Ann Messer:

When Healthcare Hurts

Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide

Oxford Handbook of Tropical Medicine

Where There Is No Doctor: A Village Health Care Handbook

Hesperian.org

Telemedicine Companies - If you’re interested in using your clinical skills, making money, and being able to work from home, the beach, or a mountain cabin, telemedicine is worth considering. This resource guide includes a list of over 40 telemedicine companies to choose from.