Medical Service Project in Moldova, July 15-21, 2002

IRFF ONLUS, in collaboration with the State Medical University organized a medical Service Project on the theme Building a Culture of Peace Through Dialogue and Selfless Service. The leadership of the Medical University identified the remote village of Hirisheni (population 2200) as the location in most dire need of medical care. From July 15th to the 21st, our team made up of 2 doctors, 3 first year medical residents and 6 fourth year medical students along with IRFF ONLUS staff set up a makeshift clinic.
The project was designed to diagnose and treat patients with hypertension and heart disease, which are called the silent killers because many people live with these ailments undiagnosed until it is too late.
During one week of intensive patient examination and diagnosis our young staff treated 243 patients. They received prescribed medicines for varying lengths of time, averaging one month. Although this neglected segment of Moldavian population benefited greatly from the care they received, all volunteers agreed that they will never forget this week where they were initiated into the real world of patient care and the demand to be on call at all times.
Upon reflection each participant determined to take an active role in developing and leading future projects.

Before the project

EKG test

Examination room

Eye examination

Teachable moment

Hands on

Medical sisters

Medical group