Volunteering as a Physiotherapist in Cambodia.

Through Global Crossroads I volunteered as a Physiotherapist at the Khmer Soviet Friendship Hospital for 8 weeks. Most of the time was spent in an outpatient setting with a varied caseload. Most of the patients suffered from either stroke, orthopedic injury, or musculoskeletal complaints. There were other unique patient groups such as patients with Bell's palsy. The staff were very welcoming and friendly. Most of the staff and patients could speak some English.

I would recommend volunteering here for Physiotherapists with a few years of experience as there is limited clinical support/supervision, minimal access to patient's notes/medical backgrounds, and a language barrier. Furthermore, the treatment approach and medical devices used in the Physiotherapy Department are "old school" compared to what is taught now. Therefore, it is important to be comfortable to go against the grain so your patients receive evidence-based active treatments.

Regarding visiting Cambodia, I can't speak highly enough of the country. Firstly the people are friendly. It is not uncommon to get invited by strangers to sit down with them and share a cold beer. While Phnom Penh isn't the most liveable city there is a lot of interesting (albeit depressing) history to explore. It is also a good springboard to explore other parts of the country that are truly amazing such as Ankor Wat and the coast.

I can't speak to the accommodation that is offered here to other volunteers as I was lucky enough to have a family friend who put me up.