Building Access to Care in Ghana

By Dr. Belen Mora

Receiving the Mid-Atlantic Section IVU Traveling Resident Scholarship and immersing myself in Ghana’s healthcare system gave me many valuable perspectives on patient care, surgical education, and life in general. I was able to experience a country I might never have visited otherwise, and I walk away knowing I will return.

Caring for patients in Ghana reminded me of the enormity of the moral mission of medicine. After just a brief conversation in clinic, the patients trusted us with their bodies, their lives, their identities. They believed unconditionally in our technical skill and our ability to heal. Their unquestioning faith in our expertise accentuated my sense of responsibility. I felt, more than ever, that technical excellence and proper patient selection were a moral requirement. I understood that the most vulnerable patients are those without alternatives, and I felt it was our duty to succeed for these patients and their families. I think often of the patients we operated on, and hope we were the healers they expected us to be.

Working side-by-side local attendings and residents was an invaluable experience. Many had years of general surgery training, yet they demonstrated constant humility and a genuine desire to learn our techniques in the operating room. They welcomed us with open arms, quickly integrated us into their teams, and most importantly, trusted us with their patients. Their commitment to improve, learn, and advocate for their community was inspiring.

Everyone I met in Ghana—doctors, patients, tour guides, street vendors—felt authentic. These were real people, facing real struggles, and yet managing to greet the world with a smile. Their warmth created an atmosphere that drew me in and reminded me to love what I have.

My time in Ghana as an IVU Scholar reminded me of the value of global health work and the importance of coming back. I deeply believe in IVU’s mission and am determined to continue participating in global health trips throughout the rest of my career. Madasi Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, I will be back!