Australian orthopaedics company Osseointegtation International, is responding to the question “how can medical professionals volunteer in war and disaster zones?” following the return of their founder, Professor Munjed Al Muderis, and a team of Australian medics from Ukraine.
“The need for medical professionals in war zones and disaster areas around the world has never been greater,” says Professor Munjed Al Muderis, “medical professionals looking to make a difference, can volunteer their skills to help those in need.”
Explaining how healthcare professionals can do this, he advises: “We have been asked by colleagues in the medical profession how they can get the ball rolling to volunteer. There are many organizations that specialize in recruiting and training medical professionals to work in war zones or disaster areas. They include and are not limited to https://saveukraine.org/volunteer/become-medical-volunteer which provides options in Ukraine and https://internationalmedicalrelief.org which manage worldwide missions including Turkey in the wake of the tragic earthquakes. These organizations work with local governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to provide medical assistance to those affected by conflict, natural disasters, and other emergencies.”
Volunteering skills as a medical professional can be a rewarding and life-changing experience. Participants can provide medical care to those who need it most and work alongside other dedicated and passionate individuals from around the world, whilst also expanding their network.
However, there are a few things those interested in volunteering their skills as a medical professional, should consider. First, they will need to have the necessary qualifications and training to work in a war zone or disaster area. This may include training in emergency medicine, trauma care, limb reconstruction surgeons, and infectious disease control.
They will also need to be prepared to work in challenging conditions, with limited resources and infrastructure. This may require them to be flexible and resourceful and to be able to work closely with local medical staff and other volunteers toward the goal of providing the best possible care to patients.
Additionally, they will need to be prepared for the emotional and psychological challenges of working in a war zone or disaster area. This may include dealing with trauma, grief, and loss while working in an environment where violence and suffering are all too common.
“Crucially,” advises Professor Al Muderis, “do your research to make sure it is going to work for you and the host organization, so you can work optimally and those in need get the support they need most.”
