Medical Internship
This amazing program plays an important role in supplying quality healthcare to those in need in Cambodia. It will prove to be a wonderful experience for interns currently studying medicine and qualified professionals alike. Love Volunteers partner in Cambodia works with two public hospitals in Phnom Penh, primarily focused in the area of children's health and pediatrics. An intern's involvement will be based on their prior experience and training. It is important to note that interns will not be allowed to partake in serious procedures and will be job ‘shadowing’. However, depending on the volunteer’s level of experience, they may observe operations, provide assistance in basic procedures and patient check-ups. There is a high demand for volunteer nurses, doctors and health specialists in this stunning country.
Goals of this Project:
- Improve the future prospects of the people of Cambodia
- Provide quality medical care to the impoverished people served by this project
- Provide an opportunity for shared learnings
- To create a better cultural understanding between all participants
How You Can Help
Interns participating in this program will gain valuable professional experience that will greatly enhance both their medical careers and personal development. Depending on the placement and the intern’s level of experience, responsibilities may include supporting pediatric and basic healthcare services, counselling patients, researching and preparing health education materials (such as information on HIV/AIDS), assisting ill and HIV-positive patients with daily activities, and helping to organize educational workshops and community outreach initiatives.
Interns will work alongside local doctors and nurses who will provide guidance and mentorship throughout their placement. As hospitals and healthcare facilities may have limited resources and equipment, interns are encouraged to remain flexible, resourceful, and open-minded when adapting to different healthcare environments.
In addition to gaining practical medical experience, participants will develop a deeper understanding of the local culture and community. This cultural exposure offers a meaningful and rewarding perspective on global healthcare, making the experience both personally enriching and professionally invaluable for those pursuing a career in the medical and healthcare fields.
Interns contribute in a number of ways and can expect to undertake the following tasks:
- Assist medical staff in the treatment of patients
- Help sort medical supplies and admin duties
- Help in emergency situations
- Help on health education programs
Requirements
This program offers an amazing opportunity for suitable applicants who are 18 years and over to work alongside qualified medical professionals and gain first-hand insight into Cambodia's healthcare system.
Applicants to this program must be either:
- Currently studying on a pre-med, pre-nursing or pre-dental track (with this listed clearly on their resume) or,
- A medical, nursing or dental student (currently enrolled in medical, nursing or dental school) or,
- A new resident doctor, nurse or dentist.
Documentation required
Interns must provide the following documentation AT LEAST ONE MONTH in advance of their start date.
- A letter of reference from a medical related professor issued on official institutional letterhead and signed by the professor from the medicine, nursing, or healthcare department and who is currently or has recently taught you in a subject that relates to the medical field (biology, physiology etc are acceptable).
- Department preferences: 1 for each week of volunteering plus 1 extra. We will provide a list once a placement is confirmed.
- Motivation letter for each department selected.
- Copy of the University forms/requirements (if any).
Naturally, all applicants must also have a genuine willingness to help, show drive and initiative, and bring a positive 'can-do' attitude. If this sounds like you, we want you on the team!
Interns are required to wear white scrubs while working at the hospital and you can opt to take your own or purchase them when you arrive. It is also necessary to take a passport size photo to use for your hospital ID card.
Additionally, volunteers applying to join this program will be required to supply to following documentation:
- Emergency contact
- Medical Qualification
- Passport
- Police check
- References
- Resume
Project Location
Cambodia's vibrant capital has overcome the hardships of a violent past to once again become a "Pearl of Asia". Whilst tourists are still drawn by the memory of the Khmer Rouge and their horrific Killing Fields (and rightly so, this should never be forgotten), the city itself is taking a cue from it's majestic river and moving on. Chic, bustling bars and restaurants line the riverfront and streets beyond with patrons watching boats cruising, motorbikes and tuk-tuks buzzing and pedestrians strolling on by. The Cambodian people are courageous and incredibly hospitable and a stay in this city is not to be forgotten.
Start Dates & Duration
This project is available year-round. Programs start the 1st and 3rd week of every month, with volunteers arriving on SUNDAY. Volunteers can choose to participate for periods ranging from 4 weeks to 8 weeks. Longer stays can be arranged directly with the local team and will be subject to availability and individual visa conditions.
For current available start dates please check the calendar on the right.
Arrival & Orientation
Interns are met on arrival into Phnom Penh and taken to the Volunteer House to settle into their new environment. An orientation session will take place on Monday and Tuesday to cover the local area, public transport, amenities, customs, rules and recommendations and of course, what to expect from your internship. This provides a great opportunity to get to know your hosts and fellow volunteers and ask any last questions you may have.
- Arrival Day: SUNDAY
- Departure Day: SUNDAY
- Arrival Airport: Phnom Penh International Airport, Phnom Penh, Cambodia (Code: PNH)
We can arrange pick-up on Saturday if required. The extra cost for an additional night's accommodation is $22 per person.
Accommodation & Meals
Interns in Phnom Penh are accommodated in a Volunteer House, centrally located and close to amenities.
Rooms are shared by up to 4 guests and split by gender. Fans are available for comfort in the summer months. Western style bathroom facilities, hot showers and bed linen is provided, so volunteers need only bring personal toiletries and a towel. The accommodation is basic but comfortable by local standards.
Wifi is available at the Volunteer House and laundry facilities are located nearby and cost around $1 per kg.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided daily and included in the program fee. If you have special dietary requirements, please let us know ahead of time. Strict vegetarians and vegans should be ready to help with the cooking and shop for additional items if necessary.
Host family accommodation is also available for female interns and volunteers. Host families are carefully vetted and provide a wonderful way to experience life in Phnom Penh like a local.
Prefer to arrange your own accommodation?
No problem! The program fees will be adjusted to:
2 weeks $473
3 weeks $539
4 weeks $605
5 weeks $715
6 weeks $748
7 weeks $770
8 weeks $814
Wish to stay extra nights?
If you are arriving early or staying on after your internship, let us know and we will book your accommodation accordingly. Per night costs, with 3 meals are:
$13 Shared room with fan
$21 Shared room with A/C
$18 Private room with fan
$25 Private room with A/C
Please note that transportation to and from the placement is not included in the program fee. The cost can range from $6 per day to $15 per day.
Fees
That’s just USD 39 per day* for:
*In addition to the program fees listed above a Registration Fee is payable to secure your place. The registration fee is USD 299 for those volunteering with Love Volunteers for the first time or USD 149 for any subsequent volunteer placements. The registration fee includes: lifetime LV Alumni Membership, fundraising support & advice, dedicated pre-departure support, certificate of completion (on request), and exclusive access to the LV Trip Planner.
Some things are not included in the program fees listed above, such as flights, visas, vaccinations, travel insurance, additional foods and snacks, spending money, local transport, in-country trips and excursions, return airport transfer (unless mentioned above).
Please note that prices are subject to change without notice. Please ensure you have read the Love Volunteers Terms and Conditions & Refund Policy.