a little about la Clinica Metodista

On Fridays I go to El Pino (about 20 minutes outside of La Ceiba) and work in a free medical clinic. The clinic is funded by a Methodist mission, but run completely by Hondurans.
Eloida is the nurse who runs the show - acting as medical care provider and overseer of the clinic. She sees patients, gives shots, and writes prescriptions.
Charles works in the pharmacy, making sure that the patients get their medicine and pay the 10 Lempira (which is about 50 cents) for the entire visit. However, it isn't important if someone doesn't have money to pay for the visit.

I spend part of my time with Charles and part with Eloida. It definitely proves to be interesting and educational! I have become efficient in reading the Spanish prescription and filling it.. although I am always amazed how every patient gets at least 2 different types of medicines to take home with them. Granted, half of the time it is aspirin, tylenol, allergy, or worm medicine - which isn't something people can just go out and buy anywhere out in the pueblo - but still, it always seems like a lot of meds!

With Eloida - I have been privileged to observe many consultations - lots of headaches, rashes, infections, temperatures, and other aches and pains for babies, teens, adults and the elderly. I have become very acquainted with penicillin shots (in the rear end) and how to work a nebulizer. It is amazing to me how Eloida really acts as a doctor - but that is what the situation demands of her, and without her there, the community would get no health care.

There are many things I would do differently - such as actually use a thermometer to take someone's temperature, perhaps check blood pressure or blood sugar as hypertension and diabetes are common problems, and prescribe a lot more drinking of water. I am definitely not coming away from this experience thinking that everything I see is the way to do things... but the bottom line is that it is an incredible blessing to the people who live in this community to receive some form of health care that they wouldn't otherwise be able to afford.
Seeing the people who come into the clinic remind me just how many needs there are in this country - be it a doctor or shoes for bare feet.

Whom shall I send? Who will go for me?