Kaya Health Care Volunteering Projects in Thailand

  Thailand

• Chiang Mai: 
Chiang Mai

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: The first Saturday of every month

Description: Whether you are a student, on a career break or retired there is a placement to suit your level. Those entering the medical profession will find volunteering in a developing country invaluable and inspiring. You will see what it is like not to have top level facilities and equipment available to you. Placements available range from hospitals, rural field clinics, house visits, nutrition, health education and public health research.

Outreach and Field Clinics in Thailand:
This project makes the best use of volunteers in the research/ fund-raising/ administrative support projects of a Provincial Health Office in northern Thailand.

Because knowledge of the Thai language is necessary for direct medical work in the clinic, volunteer work in many clinics is observational in nature, with the chance to help behind-the-scenes. Some of the larger field clinics involved in this program do have translators which give volunteers there a more hands-on experience. In all clinics, volunteers get to see and understand the operations involved and the fundamental problems facing a public clinic of this nature. If you are working with Kaya for a long duration in Chiang Mai it may be useful to undertake a Kaya Thai language course first to help you make the most of your placement.

Health Education and Research in Thailand:
Work with health care professionals, local/national health organizations and community leaders in field research learning about specific diseases, identifying risk factors, and intervening when appropriate.

Volunteers help with ongoing research projects that seek to understand the specific health care needs of communities within the province of Chiang Mai. Kaya staff and volunteers work with local researchers to conduct the best possible investigation taking into consideration the language barrier, which can cause difficulties within developing country research.

Research projects seek to determine the prevalence of targeted diseases, to elucidate risk factors for such cases, and to pinpoint possible areas for effective intervention. Results from such research will be used to formulate and guide health education initiatives.

Highlights: Exotic temples, thick green jungle, crystal clear blue water, ancient ruins and spicy, tasty cuisine are some reasons why so many overseas travelers come to the 'Golden Land.'

Around 10% of the Thai population is in serious poverty and less than 30% are living in poverty. Even so, Thailand is not as impoverished as many of its neighboring Asian countries. The main problem is the huge difference in income between the upper 30% of the population and the rest, especially those living in rural areas, such as the Hill Tribes around Chiang Mai.

Beaches of Krabi and Trang:
Krabi and Trang are the best places in Thailand to experience tropical paradise. Both beaches have soft white sand, warm turquoise water, towering limestone cliffs, and small coves and offshore islands to explore.

Hot air ballooning in Chiang Mai:
Setting off as the sun begins to rise over a river of mist flowing through the tree tops is a great way to start your breathtaking balloon ride. Panoramic views of distant mountains, terraced rice paddies, the lush green Ping River valley and rural villages, are sure to take your breath away.

Scuba Diving on Manta Ray expeditions:
The best place to see these legendary 'devil fish' is the nutrient-rich waters of Koh Bon, an island north of Similan. Surround yourself with swirling mantas as they pass close by blocking the sunlight with their elegant mass. Best encounters are between November and April.

Volunteers bring an international perspective to the work of reforestation, conservation, education and awareness passing along their knowledge and enthusiasm to local residents who will benefit the most from these projects.

Qualifications: Experience and passion for working in the community and interacting with the people are needed. Participants must also possess enthusiasm and a willingness to learn about the environment and the place's culture.

Experience Required: no

Age Range: Must be more than 18 years old

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Thailand Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Kaya Responsible Travel's Mission Statement: Kaya's mission is to promote sustainable social, environmental and economic development, empower communities and cultivate educated, compassionate global citizens through responsible travel.

Year Founded: 2008