Week Two (May 16th- May 23rd)
Experience
My second week in Tanzania was very good as well and I have learned a lot! From going to the market to buy groceries to hiking up Gangilonga rock, I have seen a lot more of Iringa and thoroughly enjoyed being here. The market is a very busy place, with lots of individual vendors selling their products. Due to the busyness, I enjoy shopping here much more than back home. The food has been excellent as well. Healthwise, I feel like I am doing very good and it makes me question the preservatives and GMOs pumped into American food all too frequently. I am staying in the Gangilonga neighborhood which is very nice and quiet. Gangilonga rock is a short hike away and when you climb up you can look over a lot of Iringa. There is a “tour guide” there who explains the history of the rock, including how Chief Mpwawa, one of the most famous Kihehe leaders, used to spend time on the rock. While there are varying stories, it was most likely used for defense and ritual purposes. Overall, I feel more comfortable in the house and at the hospital and have adjusted very well.
Research
Findings
Research wise, I accomplished a lot more this week than the first week. I observed ward rounds, asked more questions, and finalized my interview questions. I was able to meet with more doctors and even did some time observing in the hemodialysis unit. Understanding the hospital flow and the resource constraints is a crucial aspect to this project so I’ve tried to write extensive field notes and take everything in. I have not gone to the morning meetings every day, as they are less applicable to this project, but I have enjoyed going to some. One of the challenges is understanding what is being said. While the formal case presentations usually occur in English, it quickly changes to Swahili, and it is difficult to even hear what is being said when you are in the back of a filled room. Going on ward rounds shortly after the morning meetings is very useful so that I can understand why each patient is hospitalized and how they are being treated. I have spent most of my time in the female ward, but occasionally visit other areas of the hospital as well.