International Rotations - Mexico

Submitted by
Dr. Jocelyn Ragan
(PGY-1 rural resident)

I traveled to Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco, Mexico from February 11 to March 10. While there, I was able to work with my cousin, Katya Munoz at Hospital General de Zona 7: Pertenece al Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social. In my first week, I was exposed to about 20-40 patients in the ED with conditions that varied from motorcycle accidents to myocardial infarctions. Later in the week, I learned how to draw blood in the laboratory and was exposed to cardiology medical practice. The following week, I assisted in surgeries ranging from oncology, orthopedic surgery, and gynecology. There I was able to see about 12-15 patients. Third week was with obstetrics and gynecology. I was able to deliver about 5 newborns and observe how C-sections are performed in Mexico, as well as perform nexplanon insertions. Final week was with pediatrics, I was able to perform and observe well child checks from patients right after delivery to 18 years old. 

Overall, from my missions month, I learned how to perform ABG blood draws, EKGs, blood draws, OB ultrasounds in all trimesters, OB deliveries, and well child checks the way Mexico does them. I also learned how to perform procedures with limited resources. This missions month would be beneficial for those who are proficient in medical Spanish and would like to see how other countries perform procedures or healthcare without as many resources as the United States.