Physiotherapy Internship in Cambodia
Gain practical work experience in a clinical environment and help treat patients with different conditions
Destination
Age
Minimum Stay
2 weeks
Start Date
Accommodation
Requirements
What’s included
Accommodation & Amenities
24/7 Support
Transportation
Starting at €2,070 for 2 weeks
Trip Overview
What you need to know
Overview
Do you want to gain more practical work experience in the physiotherapy field? Are you eager to travel and experience life abroad? If so, this project is a great fit for you!
Our Physiotherapy internship in Cambodia will allow you to build your CV. This is an ideal opportunity for a young professional. You will be able to practice what you’ve learnt and develop new skills under supervision. You’ll also learn to think out of the box, and how to adapt to a different environment. In addition, you’ll be using your skills to help where it’s needed most.
You need to have completed at least two years of physiotherapy related studies or training to join. If you have questions or need guidance, you can reach out to Projects Abroad staff at any time.
A Day in the Life
On working days, you will travel to and from your placement via tuk tuk, which is a large motorised tricycle. Your transport to and from your placement is provided and paid for by Projects Abroad.
You’ll work from around 8.30am to 11am and then again from 1.30pm to 4.30pm. In between your shifts, you can head back to your accommodation for lunch. Alternatively, you can bring a packed lunch along with you to work.
During work hours, you will shadow other physiotherapists and help treat patients. You’ll also write up treatment plans and patient files. If you have the experience, you can work with local staff to improve their skills.
At the end of the work day you’re free to relax. Explore the city, stroll through a market, or go out to a restaurant for dinner. Alternatively, head back to the shared apartment and get to know your fellow interns and volunteers.
Aims & Impact
The aim of this project is to give disadvantaged adults, children and babies in Cambodia the physiotherapy treatment they need.
Many people living with disabilities and diseases in Cambodia cannot afford treatment. This means that a large number of patients don’t receive the support and healthcare that they need. Having you on board means that we can improve quality of life for more people.
We’re working towards four long-term, sustainable goals that are outlined in our Medical Management Plan:
- Improve access to basic healthcare for disadvantaged groups
- Improve the quality of specialised or alternative healthcare provided
- Encourage an understanding of medical practices and promote an exchange of medical knowledge
- Improve hygiene standards
Help us achieve these goals by joining our Physiotherapy internship in Cambodia.
Activities
You’ll work at a hospital alongside qualified physiotherapists in a clinical setting. You will help treat patients who have a variety of needs. Your level of responsibility depends on your experience.
We can arrange extra work for university physiotherapy elective students to meet all of your university’s requirements. This includes meeting a set amount of clinical hours or working in a specific department.
Here are a few of the things that you will do at your physiotherapy placement in Cambodia:
- Provide physiotherapy treatment and care to patients living with various conditions
- Write up treatment plans and patient files
- Assist with the training and development of local staff
- Create practical, low-cost solutions when resources are lacking
Your work will focus on the following areas:
Providing physiotherapy treatments and care to patients living with various conditions
You’ll treat patients with disabilities or diseases such as cerebral palsy, stunted growth, and epilepsy. You’ll also treat post surgery patients requiring rehabilitation. You’ll shadow experienced physiotherapists and assist local staff with daily care duties.
Your goal is to increase your patients’ quality of life through treatment. You will also work alongside our partner organisations to help patients develop so that they can become more independent.
Writing up treatment plans and patient files
Keeping up to date with note taking and case files is essential. You will keep a reliable record of what has been done as well as each patient’s progress.
Assisting with the training and development of local staff
Although there are trained local physiotherapists in Cambodia, skills and practices vary from country to country. Throughout your internship, you will help by sharing your knowledge and professional skills with these staff members. They may find some practices or lessons you provide help to better equip them for caring for their patients.
You’ll also be able to share new treatment techniques and knowledge with local physiotherapists.
Creating practical solutions when resources are lacking
There are a large number of disabled people in Cambodia and the funds and resources needed to treat them are extremely limited. This means that the hospital might not have all of the equipment and resources that you’re used to working with at home.
You will need to think out of the box and create practical, low-cost alternatives wherever possible in order to achieve the desired results.
Map & Location
It’s a country on the rise, with tourism and agriculture driving its economy. Though marked by a complex past, Cambodia is developing as a tourist destination and offers an unforgettable experience.
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, lies where the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers meet. This busy city blends French colonial architecture with ornate Buddhist temples and is home to 2.5 million people. It has a tropical wet and dry climate, meaning it can be hot all year.
Filled with artisan markets, excellent Khmer cuisine, and historic landmarks, Phnom Penh has something for everyone. It is also well connected, offering easy access to the countryside and the wonders of Angkor Wat.
Food & Accommodation
You’ll have everything you need to enjoy an incredible experience in Cambodia, including a clean bed, three meals a day, and fresh drinking water. We’ll also organise your transport (usually a traditional Tuk Tuk!) to and from your placement every day.
You’ll stay in clean, comfortable, and convenient shared apartments in the heart of Phnom Penh. You will have basic Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and large communal areas, giving you the chance to build bonds with other Projects Abroad participants.
Immerse yourself in the local culture, pick up basic Khmer phrases, and enjoy traditional dishes prepared for you by our cook. Explore the fascinating city with new friends, seeing sights like the Royal Palace and the Killing Fields, or organise a weekend trip to Angkor Wat in your free time.
Your Arrival Made Easy
When you arrive at your respective airport, a member of Projects Abroad staff will be there to meet you. You can find more detailed information on arrival airports, orientation, and visas on our Cambodia Arrival Procedures page.
Book your adventure
Starting at €2,070 for 2 weeks
Call +353 (0)1 571 5080 to connect with your Project Expert for free personal advice and support.
Still got questions? We’re happy to help!
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