Baukje Terpstra

I decided to undertake my placement overseas as I was interested in seeing how healthcare differs in a developing country compared to at home. I was keen to incorporate some travel in my experience, so I could further understand the culture of the country and visit nice places too. 

I started placement in the cardiology department, and the people there were really nice to me and made me feel welcome. The cardiology department was pretty advanced, whereas other places in the hospital were less advanced and more different from home.

During my placement, I gained exposure to several departments. In cardiology, I observed 2D echocardiography and cases involving Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) and Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG). In obstetrics and gynaecology, I observed CTG readings, C-sections, surgical tumour cases, and aspects of baby care. I also had the opportunity to observe suturing procedures.

I’d never been in obstetrics and gynaecology before. The first natural birth and C-section I’ve witnessed were very memorable. I also saw a baby dying, which I found really hard, because I’ve never seen it before - the intubation was also a hard thing to watch.

A woman giving birth here is different from at home. There's no one in there with them, and the doctors tell the mother to be quiet while she has contractions. At home, I feel like there’s more compassion. Back home, Tetralogy of Fallot is corrected before six months of age; here, I met children still waiting at nine years old, which came as a surprise. 

Outside of our placement, we did lots of travelling, visiting Cebu, Boracay, Palawan and Guimaras on the weekends. In the evening, we’d played pool, games or watched series with others staying in the Work the World house - some nights we went out for drinks at local bars, too.

Even though an overseas placement might feel out of your comfort zone, it’ll all be worth it! You’re going to meet amazing friends, see great places and learn a lot about yourself.

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