Elective advice

any questions you have, and the dates you intend to go. Tell them how many are in your group, and what skills you can offer. If you are accepted in one placement, don't forget to let the others know you won't be coming. Once you have a confirmation, book your flights as soon as possible. If you are a student, try for student deals. For any obscure destinations, ask the contact person if they know which airlines fly there, or go to a specialized travel agent. As always the Internet is a good place to search for cheap airfares! In the developing world, many hospitals are in financial difficulty, so any aid you can provide may literally be life-saving. Write to local businesses, medical organizations, or your local political representative for donations. Do not forget to hit up the other staff members in your local hospital/clinic who may have worked in the developing world in the past. Organize fund-raising events (coffee mornings, bag-packing, raffles, pub quizzes), and ask your local hospital if they have any equipment to spare. Bear in mind that some of the archaic stuff may not be suitable, while the stuff you think is useless may actually be a godsend... it is difficult to estimate this yourself but do make a serious effort to establish the level at which your hospital functions. Pharmacies and GPs will also donate left-over or sample medications. You may receive some that are past sell-by date, but check with your contact person if these are useful. Unfortunately some hospitals charge patients even for donated drugs and this can be upsetting for volunteers who brought the drugs in good faith, not expecting them to be beyond their targeted patients' means... Again, check before you go. Do not forget to see what the visa requirements are for your destination. Contact the embassy if you are unsure. Make copies of your passport, tickets, and other travel documents, and strongly consider travel insurance (if you're off to a remote destination check if you need extra cover in case you need the local flying INTRODUCTION Going on a medical elective is an exciting opportunity. No matter where the destination, for most people it is an intensely rewarding experience, and the memories last a lifetime. However poor preparation can impinge on an otherwise productive elective, leading to lost opportunities. A little time spent considering your options will be …