Behind the Screens: Interns Discover Nagari Medical Clinic or Virtual Reality Check: Interns Tour Nagari Medical Clinic in Nigeria

In an unprecedented opportunity for aspiring medical professionals, interns of the Advanced Medical & Public Health Internship were recently given a virtual tour of Nagari Medical Clinic in Nigeria. This unique experience provided a comprehensive look at the very hospital where they will be diagnosing real patients at the end of the internship, offering an authentic glimpse into the environment where lives are saved every day.

The tour, led by Mohammed Auwal Yakubu, the Nigerian Programs Manager of Leadership Initiatives, began with a view of the hospital’s exterior. The interns were able to appreciate the size and structure of the clinic, setting the stage for the detailed exploration that followed.

As the tour moved inside, the interns were guided through various critical areas of the hospital. They explored the waiting rooms where patients come to seek care, gaining insight into the daily patient flow and the initial stages of treatment.  Intern Lillian De La Cruz said, “This was my favorite presentation because we got to see and meet real life doctors and patients in Nigeria.”

One highlight of the tour was the visit to the operating room, where major surgeries take place. The interns observed the setup and the equipment used, which provided a deeper understanding of the resources available for complex procedures in developing countries.

Most importantly, the tour covered the exam rooms and the lab where the interns will be performing their diagnoses and where doctors receive test results. This segment was crucial in helping the interns visualize their upcoming roles and responsibilities. 

The tour also allowed the interns to observe how doctors navigate the hospital on a typical day. They saw the workflow, the interaction between staff and patients, and the overall atmosphere of the clinic. This exposure was invaluable in helping the interns understand how they will fit into the daily operations of the hospital. Intern Joshua Li said, “I was very impressed by the depth of knowledge and the amount of hard work and perseverance these doctors have and have done. I learned a lot as well.” 

By the end of the tour, the interns felt more confident in their ability to interact through technology in a medical context. They had a clearer understanding of their roles and the expectations for the upcoming week. The tour not only provided practical insights but also fostered a sense of readiness and enthusiasm among the interns.

In conclusion, the virtual tour of Nagari Medical Clinic was a pivotal experience for the interns, offering them a firsthand look at the environment where they will be making significant contributions to an underprivileged population. With a better grasp of the hospital's logistics and a deeper appreciation for the Nigerian healthcare system, they are now well-prepared to embark on their journey of diagnosing and treating patients.