Care and Education: a year as a tropical doctor in Sengerema

In July 2023, I started working as a tropical doctor in Sengerema. The first year flew by. In addition to clinical work in the various surgical departments, I have become the point of contact for the Emergency Department (ED). It is motivating to see how the ED now functions. A big difference with the care in the ED in Sengerema as I knew it from 2021.

Trauma care has become an important part of the work here. A specialist trauma clinic and regular elective surgery program contribute to the continuity of care. With the entire team, we ensure that patients receive the treatments they need. The effect is visible; it seems as if more and more patients are finding us for adequate trauma care.

In addition to clinical work, education plays an important role in the work as a tropical doctor. Using the expertise of the deployed teams, we have been able to offer valuable training, such as hands-on ultrasound training and presentations on interpreting X-rays. We have organized courses such as Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) and Emergency Triage Assessment and Treatment (ETAT): focused on triage and acute care of children. It is great to see how colleagues grow and develop thanks to these trainings.

However, the most important work is yet to begin. With the imminent opening of the modern operating complex, our efforts will be focused on optimizing the hospital structure, refining operational protocols and the transition to electronic patient records. Plenty of work to do!

Outside of work, we enjoy life in Tanzania. Our home has become a wonderful place to relax. I am grateful for the opportunity to be here, to learn and to be part of the positive developments at Sengerema Hospital.