Dr Carlos Sinfinice (3rd from the left) and his team held two medical clinics in rural Haiti.
In the Central Plateau of Haiti, a remarkable initiative has taken shape under the guidance of my friend, Dr. Carlos Sinfinice. His vision is to bring quality healthcare to rural Haiti where access to medical services is limited or non-existent. Carlos' mobile health clinics are an example of how Haitians can be empowered to help themselves even in this time of strife and chaos in the country.
The first mobile clinic was set up at the Ecovillage School in Colladere for two days (December 26 and 27). The clinic saw 86 patients which is a respectable number during a time when people are preparing for Independence Day celebrations. The services provided included patient consultations, routine exams, and medication distribution.
The team was a blend of local healthcare professionals and volunteers: 4 doctors, 2 nurses, 2 caregivers, a biologist, a driver, a cook, and 4 support staff. Together, they embodied the spirit of community-led healthcare. Financially, the clinic was started with a fund of 300,000 gourdes (about $2,300US) and spent 205,000 gourdes, leaving a healthy sum for another clinic day.
Undeterred by challenges, Carlos organized the second clinic at a church in Mapou near the municipality of Cerca Carvajal. This time, the event saw an impressive turnout of 155 patients. The clinic operated with a leaner team yet managed to provide comprehensive care in an all-day event.
This clinic reaffirmed the community's need and appreciation for such healthcare services, with all participants expressing gratitude. The medical team found and treated many cases of Typhoid, Intestinal Parasitosis, Genitourinary Infection, Gastritis, Avitaminosis, Malnutrition, skin diseases and respiratory infections.
Across both clinics, Carlos and his team made a significant impact, offering essential healthcare services to a combined total of 241 people at a cost less than $10 per patient-visit. The clinics not only treated illnesses but also provided a ray of hope and care to these communities.
While there are limited resources left for another full-scale clinic, Carlos remains optimistic about continuing this mission. The plan is to gather enough resources to set up another clinic in the near future to reach more people and provide follow-up to existing patients.
Carlos' mobile health clinics are a beacon of hope and a model for grassroots healthcare. They highlight the importance of accessibility to healthcare and the difference one person can make backed by a supportive community.
To those inspired by Carlos' story, there's always a way to contribute through the GoFundMe page: