Making a Lasting Impact in Ghana

By Dr. Oluwaseun Orikogbo

First, I want to start off by thanking the Northeastern Section of the AUA, who made this trip possible for me. This trip was very significant for my personal growth as well as my professional growth. The knowledge and experience I gained on this trip is something that I could have never imagined. It is often that you hear of people in low-resource areas not having the same access to medical care as patients in the United States. These stories were unfortunately not just ones that I heard on the news; my personal family living in Nigeria have also experienced the same issues. It was wonderful to have met the patients before surgery and discussed with them their conditions and the anticipated recovery.

One of the most striking aspects of the trip was the disparity in healthcare resources compared to what I am accustomed to. The hospitals and clinics operated with limited equipment and supplies, yet the dedication and ingenuity of the local medical staff were truly inspiring. Despite these challenges, they provided excellent care to their patients, adapting to circumstances with remarkable resilience. Witnessing this firsthand reinforced my appreciation for the value of resourcefulness in medicine.

I had the privilege of working alongside Ghanaian urologists, surgeons, and nurses. The collaborative nature of our work fostered an invaluable exchange of knowledge. I was able to share techniques and insights from my own training while also learning innovative approaches that the local providers had developed to work within their constraints. This cross-cultural professional exchange was a highlight of the experience, underscoring the importance of global medical collaboration.

Interacting with patients was another deeply moving aspect of the trip. Many individuals traveled great distances to receive care, often waiting hours or even days to be seen. Their gratitude and trust in the healthcare providers were humbling. I was particularly struck by the resilience and optimism of the patients, even in the face of serious medical conditions. These encounters reinforced my commitment to urology and the impact that compassionate, patient-centered care can have.

Beyond the hospital setting, immersing myself in the Ghanaian culture was an equally rewarding part of the journey. From experiencing the vibrant local cuisine to learning about Ghana’s rich history, I gained a deeper understanding of the cultural factors that influence healthcare delivery. The warmth and hospitality of the people made me feel welcome and further enriched my perspective on global health.

Reflecting on this trip, I am grateful for the experience and the lessons it imparted. It reaffirmed my passion for global health and urology while broadening my perspective on the diverse challenges faced by healthcare systems worldwide. I hope to continue participating in similar international medical initiatives, fostering collaboration, and contributing to improving healthcare accessibility in underserved regions. This trip was not only a professional milestone but also a deeply personal journey that has shaped my outlook on medicine and service.