All personal stories are told by Susan, a retired nurse.
There are often shortages of medical help in remote areas. Many people do not realize that right here in our country, there are underdeveloped regions, and they simply do not have adequate medical care.
3 months of my career were spent in one of the theses such areas, located in the United States. I could not believe the lack of care and opportunities in this small coal mining town. The graduation rate was less than 3%, it was more or less expected that you go to work in the mine as soon as you are of age.
The nursing center opened in a community center and on our first day the line went around the building prior to opening. Many of the residents had never seen a health care provider, and more than half had conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, to which they had no idea. We set up classes right away for the diabetic patients so they could be educated on diet and nutrition. Patients were provided needed medications at no charge and were instructed on using a mail order pharmacy in the future. Many of these patients were in such need, there were days I felt like giving up, however, I didn't, and it was estimated we helped serve about 50% of the residents.
There are reasons to work in rural areas, first being the need. You could be helping an underdeveloped area, and saving lives just by doing screenings and providing education to the individuals. There are also some major financial gains to be made if you still have student loans. The government will forgive many student loans if a nurse is willing to work in a remote location. In most cases, you sign a contract agreeing to stay a designated number of months. This can be a good opportunity for you to eliminate student loans, just be certain you can commit the required time to fulfill your obligation.
Working Remotely
Nurses that work in areas that medical care is not readily available, may work independently from an on-site physician. Because of this, it requires a nurse that is confident in their decision making, and capable of treating patients without the benefit of a physician. A physician may visit on a scheduled day, usually one time per month, and nurses are expected to care for the patients in the interim. Nurses are also expected to maintain documentation that is kept up to date for physician review during their visits.
Working in a medically needy area certainly has its challenges, however, a nurse that serves in these areas is providing a great service to individuals that may not otherwise receive medical care. For many patients that cannot afford their medications, the nursing staff can assist in filling out required paperwork for a patient assistance program. These programs assist patients that cannot afford their medications, which can be life-saving drugs. One clinic reported that 60% of the town's residents over the age of 40 suffered from high blood pressure, yet only 5% took medications. The visiting nurses were able to help patients and ensure that 10p% of the residents that needed medication received them.
Remote locations need medical care, even if it is a temporary establishment that will only be staffed for a few months. The residents are very thankful to receive care. Any nurse that works in these situations is made to feel very welcomed and appreciated. For that reason, some have continued to assist the towns after their assignment ends. 3 nurses were able to raise enough money through government grants and private donations, to keep one clinic opened year-round, and staffed on a full-time basis. You can have a rewarding job and provide health services to those in need, right here in your own country.
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