Education

South Africa's medical education is much different than at home. Most of you all know that we go to college for 4 years, then spend 4 years in medical school, and then do a residency, and some continue to do a fellowship, in our chosen specialty, which can last anywhere from 3-infinity years. Due to tmany reasons, the students go to medical school directly from high school for 6 years, then do 2 years of internship (which encompasses all areas), then have to do 1 year of community service in a high need area, and then go on to be a registrar if they would like to specialize. In order to practice in South Africa, you must do at least 1 year of community service. Some physicians stop after that and can practice as general practitioners. Needless to say our registrars have seen a ton! One of them was telling me stories today of when one of her c-sections went wrong, not fault of hers, and she just happened to be lucky enough to get ahold of someone who could come in to help her complete a hysterectomy. Due to the shortage of physicians in the "bush," these community service doctors are the most qualified available for many miles. It makes the Kansas system of helping to pay off family practioners debts when they practice in the town for several years sound luxurious.

Thursdays are education days in haematology, which are fantastic! We meet with radiologists to discuss our patient's films, as well as with pathologists to discuss their slides. It is amazing to have performed a bone marrow, then be able to actually have someone explain to you what they are looking for on it. I am actually learning incredible amounts just about haem, as well as cultural differences!

Cheers.