Nigerian hospital in need of volunteers to conduct eye clinic

The United Methodist Church Hospital, Rural Health Program and Eye Centre in north central Nigeria, West Africa urgently needs volunteers to assist with the medical program and to conduct an eye clinic to do cataract eye surgery.

As the only medical facilities within 500 miles, the hospital is in constant usage by those in need of medical services. Prenatal and well baby clinics are held weekly and a variety of patients are seen daily with the maternity ward always in use.

The eye care center is a new clinic furnished with modern equipment including Zeiss operating microscopes, Haag Streit slit lamps, Keratometer, A-scan, appropriate sterilizer, eye instruments, trial sets and frames.

While on a visit to Nigeria in July 2005, Iowa Bishop Gregory Palmer, said, "I was so impressed with this state-of-the-art medical clinic and surgery center and its lack of utilization because of the absence of trained health care professionals including eye care professionals. Until an ophthalmologist missionary can be on site all the time, I believe that the volunteer in mission approach to periodically staff this clinic is our best opportunity to use the gifts of the clinic well."

The medical trip will be sponsored by the Iowa-Nigeria Partnership Committee, a mission outreach ministry of the Iowa United Methodist Conference. Health care professionals including ophthalmologists, optometrists, opticians and nurses, as well as ancillary personnel would not only bless, but be blessed, by participating in this volunteer medical team. The trip will be the last two weeks of June 2007 with an approximate cost of $2,500. Team orientation, securing airline tickets and a Nigeria visa will be provided for medical team members.

For further information and application form, contact Beverly Nolte, at 515-237-8544 or by e-mail at bnmedical@aol.com. The team needs to be formed by Feb. 1.

Last updated on 25 Apr 2008

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