The Health Care System in the Warm Heart of Africa: Malawi

Abstract

The article reflects the author's recent journey to Malawi, Africa. As a member of the medical team, the author had firsthand encounters with many of the failings of Malawi's health care system. Yet throughout her time in Malawi, the author was overwhelmed with the compassion and sincerity of everyone she met. The article describes the dire medical situation and the true spirit of the people. Initially there is a discussion on the hospitals of the area, then of the actual health care workers. A summary of the malnutrition is discussed, with particular attention to the young children and their mothers. The Domasi Health Clinic represents a team effort in building a facility that was sponsored by private funds, set up with missionaries, yet staffed by Malawians. The article concludes with a summary of the plight of the population in regard to AIDS, and why this has grown to such epidemic proportions. There is a tremendous need for medical assistance, but facing adversity at every turn, the people remarkably maintain a warm, friendly spirit. It was truly a trip during which everyone gained as much as they gave.