Manna Mission Hospital, Ghana

Manna Mission Hospital
Teshie, Ghana            

     

           

Summary

Teshie, the home of Manna Mission Hospital, is a city of 130,000 located along the coast of West Africa, just outside the capital city of Accra. This fishing village has recently grown into a larger settlement of people known for their no non-sense, yet hospitable attitudes toward those of all races and backgrounds. Teshie is internationally recognized for its annual Homowo Festival, a celebration marked by exotic foods and colorful costumes. English is the official language of Ghana.

Manna Mission Hospital provides students with a comprehensive experience in international medicine. Malaria, malnutrition, pneumonia, tropical ulcers, typhoid fever, inguinal hernias, schistosomiasis and pregnancy complications are commonly treated. A public health initiative is also lead by the hospital. The facility is recognized by the University of Virginia Office of International Health as a training site for Geographic Medicine Scholars.

LocationManna Mission Hospital is located in Teshie, which is roughly 20 km from Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Teshie is historically a fishing village and now has become an extended suburb of Accra.

TransportationFlights to Ghana arrive in Accra. A representative from Manna Mission Hospital will meet volunteers at the airport.

Visa RequirementAmericans require a visa for entry into Ghana. The visa must be obtained in advance and cannot be received at the airport. Contact the Ghanaian embassy for visa application information: http://www.ghanaembassy.org. Be sure to apply for your visa one - two months in advance. OBTAIN A VISITOR VISA ONLY.

Traveler’s Health & SafetyPlease check the CDC travel website for the most up-to-date health information: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/default.aspx

Visitors are advised to regularly check the U.S. State Department website for the most up-to-date information regarding travel advisories: http://www.state.gov/travelandbusiness/. Visitors are advised to regularly check the U.S. State Department website for the most up-to-date information regarding country specific travel information http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.html

FacilityManna Mission Hospital is a 30-inpatient bed hospital that includes a pediatric ward and separated male and female wards. There is a general outpatient clinic that provides care for 60-80 patients a day, a maternity clinic, and a public health clinic. The facility is recognized by the University of Virginia Office of International Health as a training site for Geographic Medicine Scholars.

PatientsPeople coming to Manna Mission Hospital are often impoverished. Some of the most common medical problems encountered are malaria, malnutrition, pneumonia, tropical ulcers, typhoid fever, inguinal hernias, pregnancy complications, schistosomiasis, hypertension and anemia.

Health Profession StaffThe medical staff of Manna Mission Hospital consists of 4 family physicians, 1 pediatric/general surgeon, 2 obstetrician/gynecologists, 3 ophthalmologist, and 2 anesthesiologist. All staff physicians are Ghanian, and many of them have trained in the United States. In addition, a number of physicians from America and other nations server for shorter periods each year.

Websiteshttp://mannaminc.org/hospital.html

LanguagesEnglish is the official language of Ghana. Medical students and residents will able to work in English, with translation available for the local languages that will be encountered.

Student ExperienceFor students and residents there will be hands on experience in general medicine, pediatrics, ob/gyn, surgery and tropical medicine. There is also opportunity to serve in a mobile clinic, which is provides care to underserved communities. Clinical responsibilities will normally include outpatient clinic, inpatient care, obstetrics, pediatrics, and surgery. Visiting health professionals are encouraged to bring their own medical instruments. Students will normally take night call and be responsible for their own inpatients. Students are constantly under the guidance of a staff physician.

Student Blogs Fred Pfenniger
Julie Dougherty
Kristen Kenny

Student LodgingA furnished western-style house that is available to visitors at a nominal cost. The house has an equipped kitchen, laundry, and electricity. Catering is also available from the hospital cafeteria, for those who prefer not making their own meals.

Facility SupportINMED invites all participants to consider raising extra funds to donate to support the facility. This is not required but allows INMED participants to become involved in every aspect of medical missions.

DressClothing for clinical work is similar to that worn in the United States. Men can wear jeans and polo shirts. No shorts or T-shirts. Long skirts and slacks may be worn by women. Scrubs are also appropriate.

What To PackBe sure to pack a carry on bag that has your essentials just in case your luggage becomes lost. Also, it’s usually best to bring two suitcases, each half full, to have a place to pack souvenirs for the return trip. Recent INMED students recommend:

  • Pharmacopia book
  • Stanford antibiotic guide
  • Grainola bars
  • Water bottle
  • Small back pack
  • Peanut butter
  • Lots of skirts and tank tops
  • Sleeveless shirts
  • Sandals
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • BP cuff
  • Wrist watch
  • Old running shoes
  • Books, Bible
  • Writing paper
  • Bug spray
  • Film
  • A good camera
  • Battery powered alarm clock
  • Sunscreen