Hannah Iguchi

Growing up with parents from two completely different cultures, it has always been an interest of mine to experience how different countries function as a society. Having completed my first MSK placement, I decided that this would be the perfect opportunity to compare the healthcare systems of the UK and Nepal. I was particularly intrigued to see how Nepali physiotherapists manage patient care and effective treatment, being a relatively low-resource country. 

I was aware of Nepal’s stunning landscapes, natural beauty and the kindness of the people, but experiencing it all first-hand made me fall in love with the country, and I cannot wait to return!

Being busy with University and other commitments, I was concerned that it might be too time-consuming to plan an elective placement abroad, but Work the World were amazing in preparing me for the placement. The online portal, My Trip, provides you with a wealth of information, including packing lists and travel requirements leading up to your trip, in an easy-to-follow step-by-step process. 

Any queries before the trip were answered promptly. Staff also ensured that my placement objectives were realistic and reassured me about what to expect in the department I was placed in during my clinical interests call. The Work the World house will be your second home throughout your stay. I settled in quickly with students already in the house, giving us tips about getting by in the country and planning trips on the weekend.

There are two main social areas: one in which you will have your morning and evening meals with your housemates and another to wind down and relax, as well as where your language and clinical lessons will take place. There are also spaces to have some me-time on the balcony and rooftop with amazing views of the city.

The social aspects definitely were one of the highlights of the trip. Meeting healthcare students from across the world and sharing experiences and cultures was enlightening. You are all in the same boat, so don’t be afraid to lean on each other for support! Everyone was so friendly and welcoming, and I quickly made friends with my housemates - I’ve made friends for life!

The in-country team were incredibly hard-working and went the extra mile to ensure we enjoyed our stay. The catering staff got the food spot on every day and adjusted the menu according to people’s dietary needs. We felt safe in the house with 24-hour security and the guards who greeted us with a smile every day, leaving for placement and returning from sightseeing and activities. The programme managers checked in on us regularly and even helped us organise weekend trips to places like Nagarkot.

The local healthcare system was very different to home, with the use of machinery you don't see in the NHS, such as TENS, shockwave and ultrasound therapy. Patient satisfaction is met using these modalities in conjunction with exercise prescription, as people prefer to receive hands-on treatment. Caseloads are heavy, often treating several patients at the same time. However, despite this, the physiotherapists in the department took time to explain any pathologies we were unsure of. We often chatted in the mornings before work started, and they took an interest in getting to know us. A big thank you to the physiotherapy team for being so kind and welcoming!

We visited many tourist attractions in the afternoon and evening after placement, such as the Bodnath stupa, the monkey temple and spent many evenings at Samsara (the local bar). One thing that would stick with me is the kind people of Nepal! I experienced their warmth and kindness from the moment I arrived, right through to when I went to stay in the village. If you are considering this trip, definitely go for it! You will make lifelong memories and friends!

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