Cambodian Prosthetics Volunteer Work Placement

Steph is set to travel to Cambodia in January 2020 to spend 4 weeks volunteering in a Prosthetics and Orthotics clinic in a rehabilitation centre just outside of Phnom Penh. Throughout this work placement she will be observing and learning from local professionals and working alongside them to treat local patients. As a result of the horrific landmines spread across the country, the number of Cambodian amputees exceeds 40,000 as well as numerous people left with significant disabilities. This therefore creates an enormous demand for prosthetic and orthotic devices and resources.  Whilst a majority of patient presentations are upper and lower limb amputees, others include club hand, club foot, cerebral palsy, congenital defects, spina bifida, scoliosis and many more. 

Prostheses, whilst an imperative device, are very expensive. The cost of a prosthetic limb in Cambodia is up to $5000, however the average Cambodian family only earns $3000 annually. It is crucial that these resources become easier and more affordable to access because of the vast impact that an amputation and/or disability has on their ability to lead a normal life. 

Steph will be joining 3 other Prosthetic and Orthotic students along with another 4 interdisciplinary students taking part in the project. The funds raised enables the students to take valuable knowledge, skills and tools abroad with them as well as provide extensive access to greater resources for the local Cambodian health professionals and patients.