One of the many extraordinary things that our volunteers report following a trip to an HVO site is the impact their visit has on their own views, practices and education. One oncology volunteer to Costa Rica recently reported:
Learning from dedicated physicians in other countries always helps me find ways to improve my own practice. The physicians in [Cost Rica] are very good at palliative care, and typically discuss cases with the palliative care team as soon as the diagnosis of advanced cancer is made. This is something that I should consider in my own practice. Being a good care-giver in a “no-frills” environment is the daily challenge for the CR oncologist. This makes me appreciate the great resources that I have available at home.
Time and time again, our volunteers affirm the value of their experience from a personal and professional standpoint. As our oncology volunteer to Costa Rica found, volunteers can even bring home knowledge and experience that improves the care they offer their own patients. Of course, volunteers are leaving behind lessons, too.
The result is professional exchange that leads to better patient care around the world.