Be a Volunteer Physiotherapist in Ghana

Physical Therapy Placement

This voluntary physiotherapy project provides treatment for patients in hospitals and medical centres in Ghana. We work in six different regions of Ghana so there are many different options for you to choose from. The project is perfect for anyone qualified considering voluntary work abroad or physiotherapists on a career break.

Ghana has a state health system that aims to provide healthcare for all of its citizens. However, many hospitals lack funds and staff. Also, the poorest patients often struggle to receive the treatment that they need.

Here you will find answers to the following questions:

How can volunteer physiotherapists help in Ghana?

What will I gain from this project?

What will Projects Abroad PRO provide?

What skills or qualifications do I need?

How do I apply to join this project?

How can volunteer physiotherapists help in Ghana?

As a volunteer physiotherapist you can use your knowledge and training to help local staff. You can work on tasks such as:

• Providing treatment for patients requiring physiotherapy including tasks such as: 
  • Working with patients to identify the physical problem.
  • Assisting patients with joint and spinal problems, especially following surgery.
  • Helping patients' rehabilitation following accidents, injury and strokes.
  • Educating and advising patients and their carers about how to prevent and/or improve conditions.
• Producing a treatment plan when caring for children to teach the parents how to carry out exercises.
• Organising and running training clinics for Projects Abroad volunteers working with other hospitals (optional).

You will be expected to work from 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. You will also get the chance to take part in physiotherapy workshops run by Projects Abroad.

We work with a wide variety of institutions throughout Ghana. These range from standard hospitals to care centres for children with physical disabilities. If you have a particular area of interest or expertise then please let us know.

This project runs all year round so you can join at any time. You decide how much time you can spare and we will help you get the most out of it.

What will I gain from this project?

Volunteer physiotherapist

You will gain experience of working with professional doctors and physiotherapists from a completely different culture. You will learn how to treat conditions that may be uncommon in your home country. You will also be able to share ideas with your new colleagues and develop your ability to work in a pressurised environment.

You will also spend time with local people, learning about their culture and way of life. Staff and patients at the hospital will want to hear about your life back home and your family and friends. We call this ‘cultural exchange’ and we think it helps our volunteers gain a new perspective on life.

What will Projects Abroad PRO provide?

We have over 19 years’ experience of running volunteer projects. We provide you with the following support to make sure your time in Ghana is successful and enjoyable:

• Safe accommodation with a Ghanaian family close to your project.
• Friendly and dedicated local staff available to help 24 hours a day.
• A member of staff to meet you at the airport when you arrive.
• Comprehensive medical and travel insurance.
• Social events with other volunteers such as a weekend trip to a local tourist destination.

What skills or qualifications do I need?

If you have completed at least a Bachelors Degree in Physiotherapy then you are perfectly suited to this project.

Please contact us if you think your knowledge may be useful on this project but do not have the required qualifications.