How do you know you’re choosing the right destination for your medical placement abroad? You’re probably wondering where to even begin?
With a diverse set of destinations across three very different continents, in addition to the variety of departments, clinics, community opportunities and rural healthcare experiences on offer, the decision can feel overwhelming.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of points to consider, so you can be confident you’ve chosen the right destination for your medical elective abroad.
Find balance
Every Work the World destination is picked for its unique blend of culture, specific environmental and social factors, and its nuanced healthcare system.
And on an overseas medical elective, you’ll want a good balance of all three.
So it’s worth getting to know what each destination can offer in terms of travel and culture, and what to expect on the clinical front.
That’s where our team of experts can help. They’ve travelled extensively to each destination and know the ins and outs of each hospital. They possess all the information you’ll need to feel ‘in the know’ to be able to make an informed, well-rounded decision.
Get specific
It’s also important to note that our destinations lend themselves to certain fields. Perhaps you’re a medical student looking to specialise in paediatrics or you’re contemplating a future in anaesthetics.
Either way, your goals and ambitions should play an important role in choosing your destination. And with the added benefit of the level of flexibility we’re able to offer, you can plan your medical elective down to the finest detail.
From teaching hospitals, tertiary referral centres, specialist hospitals, and even small rural health outposts – there’s a vast array of options available to you as a medical student.
You’ll be able to rotate through numerous departments and also get experience in more specialised areas if you wish.
During your clinical consultation with us, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your specific goals and requirements. So make sure you have a clear idea about what you want to achieve. And your dedicated placement coordinator will create the best medical elective for you.
Get out of your comfort zone
Choosing a destination where you’ll be able to engage with unfamiliar ailments, diseases and conditions can be daunting. But you’ll reap untold benefits by putting yourself out in front of these challenges.
Village Healthcare Experiences
On your medical elective, you’ll have the option to undertake our Village Healthcare Experience week.
While you shouldn’t base your choice of destination on these alone, we guarantee it’ll be a highlight of your overseas experience.
Reading reviews and stories from students who have tried a Village Healthcare Experience is a great place to start getting to grips with the different options available in our destinations.
Think about the language
You’ll be provided with comprehensive language resources before your departure. And you’ll receive free language lessons in the Work the World house, but it’s up to you to fully utilise what you learn.
If you’re already familiar with a language, or you’ve got an interest in a particular language and culture, you might find you can put it to use in one of our destinations. You certainly do not need to speak any of the local languages, our free lessons just help you communicate with patients and your supervisors whilst on placement.
Once-in-a-lifetime destinations
This goes without saying, but by picking a destination in a part of the world you’re unlikely to visit again, or haven’t before, the chances are you’ll make the most of every moment.
Considering adding on some extra travel time before or after your elective? Do some research on the travel opportunities available so you’ve got a good idea of things you’ll be able to see and do. Either way, your weekends will be free to explore your chosen destination.
And don’t forget to think about what appeals to you when it comes to your destination.
Do you thrive in busy, bustling cities? Or would you prefer a more rural laid back atmosphere?
Knowing what type of environment will inspire you to work to your best ability is key.
So, whether you’re a medical student looking to specialise in emergency medicine and want to spend your free time exploring ancient temples. Or perhaps you're a medical student planning a career in surgery and see yourself relaxing on the beach after placement? We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Our team of experts have extensive knowledge of all our programs – inside the hospital and out – and have been creating bespoke electives for medical students for years. Read more about our medical electives abroad. To get in touch, simply fill out the short enquiry form.
Next Steps
Where to?
Want to experience a life-changing overseas medical elective? Choose a destination to get started.
Want to experience a life-changing overseas medical elective? Choose a destination to get started.
