My visit to CSC – Kate Atkinson

I was fortunate to spend a week at CSC and witness their impressive work. As an orthopaedic registrar (resident) in the UK, I am used to the routine at home of regular clinics and operations, with patients presenting with fairly similar pathologies on a daily basis. On my first day at CSC, I had already seen multiple patients with conditions that I had either never seen in the UK or were much more severe.

Not only was I a new visitor to CSC, but it was also my first time in Cambodia and I immediately fell in love with the country. All hospital staff are welcoming and they provide free or low-cost healthcare to those who need it most. Despite the differences in the hospital and culture, when I was in the operating theatre it felt like being back at home. We performed orthopedic surgeries to transform lives, with each procedure following the same steps. The main challenge faced by CSC surgeons is the lack of proper equipment and supplies due to heavy reliance on donations. This requires them to think creatively and find alternative solutions to successfully perform surgeries and improve outcomes for disabled Cambodians. I learned so much in such a short space of time at CSC.  It has led me to reflect on my practice back home. I am already missing CSC and Cambodia and hope my next visit will be a longer one. I plan to spend six months starting in April 2024 and hope to see the staff soon.