About the Internship
This exciting program offers Medical Internships for those volunteers who are currently studying medicine in a number of notable private and public full-service hospitals in Chiang Mai. In all cases, volunteers/interns are able to work closely with a supervising physician, and are paired with a full-time doctor who they will shadow on daily rounds. Interns are only placed with doctors with an exceptional command of English. These are highly qualified professionals, many of whom have been educated in the US or UK. Intern responsibilities vary according to their own qualifications, experience and/or comfort level. Participants with a full medical degree will often enjoy far more access when it comes to administering care and interacting with patients, but it is important to note that most interns only observe or help out with very minor tasks. While every aspect of the internship is carefully monitored by the supervising staff, it is important to note that medical interns would never get this far ‘behind the scenes’ in a Western hospital, so it really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for medical students.
Goals of this Project:
- Provide essential medical care to the people of Thailand
- Improve the health and wellbeing of some of the poorest people in the world
- Enable international volunteers to spend time working with those who need it most
- Enable inter-cultural exchange which benefits both locals and international volunteers alike.
How You Can Help
Participants on this program will gain valuable exposure to the Thai healthcare system and unparalleled insight into patient care in one of the most medically advanced countries in the world.
Interns are encouraged to note their department preferences and, depending on current needs at the hospital(s) in which they are placed, these will be taken into account when planning the placement. Interns will be rotated through different departments on a weekly basis, allowing adequate exposure to each department as well as gaining exposure across specialities.
Some of the areas medical interns can work in include; General Medicine, Family Medicine, Emergency Room, Operating Room, Hemodialysis, Dental, Physical Therapy, Health promotion and ward rounds.
This project calls for interns to work from 8am – 4pm, Monday – Friday. Depending upon the working schedule of the paired doctor and area of the hospital an intern is placed, the times and days of work may fluctuate. As with all Medical placements, patience and flexibility with work schedules is greatly appreciated.
Interns on this program will benefit from a shared international learning experience in the field of medicine. This is a program not to be missed for those wishing to expand their medical knowledge.
Requirements
This program offers an amazing opportunity for suitable applicants who are 18 years and over to work alongside qualified medical professionals and gain first-hand insight into Thailand's healthcare system.
Applicants to this program must be either:
- Currently studying on a pre-med or pre-dental track (with this listed clearly on their resume) or,
- A Medical or dental student (currently enrolled in medical or dental school) or,
- A new resident doctor, nurse or dentist.
All interns will need a letter of reference from a medical related professor or a medical professional that has known them in a professional setting.
All paperwork needs to be submitted at least one month in advance of the intended start date.
Clothing and appearance is important for medical interns on this program. Professional clothing must be worn at all times ie buttoned, collared shirts, long professional pants or skirts and presentable footwear. All medical interns will be provided with intern lab coats for a deposit of 500 Thai Baht. If returned washed and clean the deposit is full refunded. If returned unwashed, but in otherwise good condition, 400 Baht is refunded. No refund will be provided for items not returned or returned in a poor condition.
Ideally, volunteers on this project will have at least a basic knowledge of the local language in order to communicate effectively with patients and staff, though this is not a pre-requisite.
Naturally, all applicants must also have a genuine willingness to help, show drive and initiative, and bring a positive 'can-do' attitude. If this sounds like you, we want you on the team!
Additionally, volunteers applying to join this program will be required to supply to following documentation:
- Emergency contact
- Medical Qualification
- Passport
- Police check
- References
- Resume
- Vaccination Certificate
Project Location
Thailand's "Rose of the North" is a breath of fresh air compared to its Southern rival. Rich in cultural diversity and natural wonders, Chiang Mai maintains a relaxed and authentically Thai atmosphere. Whether strolling the back-streets of the old quarter, visiting a temple, nodding in passing to orange clad monks going about their day or tucking in to some delicious Thai fare, visitors are sure to delight in what this city has to offer. Not forgetting that nature is on the very doorstep; take a short ride outside the city and you are in the midst rainforests, waterfalls, rivers, hot springs and tranquil villages. There really is something for everyone!
Start Dates & Duration
This project is available year-round and programs start the 1st and 3rd week of every month with volunteers arriving on FRIDAY.
Volunteers can choose to participate for periods ranging from 1 week to 12 weeks. Longer stays can be arranged directly with the local team but will be subject to availability and individual visa conditions.
For current available start dates please check the calendar on the right.
Arrival & Orientation
You will be met on arrival into Chiang Mai by our local representative and taken to the Volunteer House to settle in, relax and meet with fellow volunteers and your hosts. The following day the Orientation Weekend begins, designed to give an insight into Thai culture the orientation includes learning basic Thai words and phrases, negotiating the public transport system (including getting to and from your project) and basically sets you up to get the very most out of your placement from day one. The two day orientation is a great chance to see a little of this fascinating city with the help of expert guides and in the company of other volunteers. It will also allow you to purchase a local SIM and data package should you wish, withdraw or exchange Thai Baht and ask any last minute questions.
- Arrival Day: FRIDAY 8AM - 8PM
- Departure Day: SATURDAY
- Arrival Airport: Chiang Mai International Airport, Chiang Mai, Thailand (Code: CNX)
Accommodation & Meals
Volunteers on this program are accommodated in a volunteer house conveniently located within easy reach of the city. Rooms are dormitory style and split by gender with 2 – 4 volunteers sharing.
All rooms are air-conditioned for comfort and the house has all the amenities a volunteer requires, including western-style bathrooms, hot running water, bed linen (volunteers should bring their own towels and toiletries), kitchen and laundry facilities and Wi-Fi available 24 hours a day. Easy!
Transport to the placement takes approximately 30 mins and costs US$2 per day.
Accommodation on this program includes daily breakfast at the volunteer house and lunch on weekdays at the program site (included in the program fee). Dinners are self-catered which provides an excellent opportunity to explore the city and dine at one of the numerous eateries offering Thai or international cuisine. Volunteers are also welcome to make use of the kitchen facilities at the volunteer house to prepare meals.
Thai dishes use an abundance of fresh ingredients, herbs and spices and are a taste sensation. Be sure to try the coconut based curries such as Kaeng Khiao Wan’ (Thai Green Curry) and fruit based salads such as pomelo and green mango. Delicious!
Fees
That’s just USD 87 per day* for:
*In addition to the program fees listed above a Registration Fee is payable to secure your place. The registration fee is USD 299 for those volunteering with Love Volunteers for the first time or USD 149 for any subsequent volunteer placements. The registration fee includes: lifetime LV Alumni Membership, fundraising support & advice, dedicated pre-departure support, certificate of completion (on request), and exclusive access to the LV Trip Planner.
Some things are not included in the program fees listed above, such as flights, visas, vaccinations, travel insurance, additional foods and snacks, spending money, local transport, in-country trips and excursions, return airport transfer (unless mentioned above).
Please note that prices are subject to change without notice. Please ensure you have read the Love Volunteers Terms and Conditions & Refund Policy.