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- Tasks: Volunteer as an ophthalmologist to provide essential eye care in rural South Africa.
- Company: Join the Tshemba Foundation, dedicated to improving vision and healthcare in underserved communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy free accommodation in a beautiful game reserve and connect with global healthcare peers.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on eye health while recharging in nature and reigniting your passion for medicine.
- Qualifications: Must have a current medical license and HPCSA registration; support provided for international volunteers.
- Other info: Experience personal growth and transformation while addressing critical healthcare needs.
Are you passionate about using your ophthalmology knowledge and skills to help others? Answer your calling, and take your leave of purpose.
The Tshemba Foundation is appealing to South African ophthalmologists to fill a critical health care gap in rural South Africa’s Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces where shortages are posing substantial challenges to adequate eye care.
Tshemba's efforts to improve vision initially focused on cataract surgery, however, screenings in the community and clinics have indicated an urgent need for non-surgical interventions and ophthalmological services. To take action against blindness prevention, alongside our partners, we’ve expanded our cataract services to include non-surgical interventions in diagnostics and treatment.
In your role as a volunteer ophthalmologist you will:
- screen and care for diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and keratoconjunctivitis
- perform cataract operations over extended weekends at our cataract camps
- provide postgraduate support to medical staff in training
- engage in skills development and/or formal teaching for local staff about eye pathology
Requirements:
- A current medical license in good standing
- Registration with the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA), which we assist international volunteers to obtain.
Tshemba offers its volunteers free, safe and secure accommodation at its Volunteer Lodge, situated in Moditlo Private Game Reserve. The Lodge serves as a welcome off-duty refuge where like-minded healthcare providers relax after an intense day of work. Here they exchange ideas, create healthcare solutions for daily challenges faced and connect with peers from all over the world, all the while taking in the magnificent natural surroundings. It is important to recognize that while you will be making a massive contribution to eye care in an impoverished rural area, you will have down time. We see this as a win-win with time for you to pause, think and to recharge your batteries.
Health professionals who have volunteered with Tshemba tell us that they have been re-energized and transformed by the experience, and their passion for medicine reignited.
Please reach out if you have any questions and to discuss volunteering your time.
Volunteer ophthalmologist employer: Tshemba Foundation
Contact Detail:
Tshemba Foundation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer ophthalmologist
✨Tip Number 1
Connect with current or former volunteers at Tshemba Foundation to gain insights about their experiences. They can provide valuable information on what to expect and how to make the most of your time there.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarize yourself with the specific eye care challenges faced in rural South Africa, particularly in Mpumalanga and Limpopo. Understanding these issues will help you demonstrate your commitment and readiness to contribute effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight any previous volunteer work or experience in underserved communities during your discussions. This shows your dedication to making a difference and your ability to adapt to challenging environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your approach to teaching and supporting local medical staff. Emphasizing your skills in mentorship and knowledge transfer can set you apart as a candidate who is not only a practitioner but also a teacher.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer ophthalmologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Mission: Familiarize yourself with the Tshemba Foundation's mission and values. Highlight your passion for ophthalmology and how it aligns with their goal of improving eye care in rural South Africa.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to emphasize relevant experience in ophthalmology, particularly in areas like cataract surgery, diabetic retinopathy, and community health initiatives. Include any teaching or mentoring roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your motivation to volunteer, your skills, and your understanding of the challenges faced in rural healthcare. Share personal anecdotes that demonstrate your commitment to making a difference.
Highlight Your Qualifications: Clearly state your medical license status and registration with the Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA). If you are an international applicant, mention your willingness to obtain the necessary registration with their assistance.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tshemba Foundation
✨Show Your Passion for Ophthalmology
Make sure to express your genuine passion for ophthalmology and helping others during the interview. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to improving eye care, especially in underserved communities.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Discuss any previous volunteer work or experience in rural healthcare settings. Emphasize your skills in performing cataract surgeries and managing conditions like diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Cultural Sensitivity
Since you'll be working in diverse communities, it's important to show that you understand and respect cultural differences. Talk about any past experiences where you successfully navigated cultural sensitivities in a healthcare context.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the Tshemba Foundation's initiatives and how they measure the impact of their programs. This shows your interest in their mission and your eagerness to contribute meaningfully to their efforts.
