I arrived at the hospital just after opening at 8:00 AM. The registration office kiosks were crowded, and there wasn't enough space for everyone in the waiting room. I was directed from the information desk to the emergency room, where I waited in line until I was able to speak to the doctor at the desk there, from which I was directed to the Dirección, or management office, to speak to the hospital director.
The doctors of the hospital were just coming out of a meeting. Several people were waiting to see the Director, but no line existed; instead, patients would peek into his door to see if he was available, or approach him as he would exit the office to guide a patient to another office or part of the hospital.
About 45 minutes later since my arrival, I was able to enter the office and speak with the Director. He was happy to help, but had to direct me to the doctor in management underneath him. She had been expecting another person's arrival to shadow physicians, and she thought that was me. I told her about my project and what I hope to accomplish at the hospital - speaking to doctors and making observations.
Ultimately, all I needed to accompany me was a sort of letter of affiliation from UM to show that I was in fact a student with the University and that my work is affiliated with them. As soon as that letter arrives, I can begin observations and conversations with doctors.
Although comfortable with my Spanish, I want to ensure I don't miss anything from my interviews with doctors. I was connected with owner and secretary of the brand new Language Center in Jarabacoa, where I might find someone who could help translate while I am in Jarabacoa. They were so excited that I was interested in having a student help, especially that I had a budget to pay them an hourly wage; they will call their students to see if one would be available in the mornings to help.
Eager to get back to the hospital - this time with my letter - and hear back from the Language Center. Stay tuned.
The doctors of the hospital were just coming out of a meeting. Several people were waiting to see the Director, but no line existed; instead, patients would peek into his door to see if he was available, or approach him as he would exit the office to guide a patient to another office or part of the hospital.
About 45 minutes later since my arrival, I was able to enter the office and speak with the Director. He was happy to help, but had to direct me to the doctor in management underneath him. She had been expecting another person's arrival to shadow physicians, and she thought that was me. I told her about my project and what I hope to accomplish at the hospital - speaking to doctors and making observations.
Ultimately, all I needed to accompany me was a sort of letter of affiliation from UM to show that I was in fact a student with the University and that my work is affiliated with them. As soon as that letter arrives, I can begin observations and conversations with doctors.
Although comfortable with my Spanish, I want to ensure I don't miss anything from my interviews with doctors. I was connected with owner and secretary of the brand new Language Center in Jarabacoa, where I might find someone who could help translate while I am in Jarabacoa. They were so excited that I was interested in having a student help, especially that I had a budget to pay them an hourly wage; they will call their students to see if one would be available in the mornings to help.
Eager to get back to the hospital - this time with my letter - and hear back from the Language Center. Stay tuned.