Emma Thoirs

From the moment my university introduced me to Work the World, I knew I wanted to go abroad for my elective placement. I loved the idea of gaining new experiences that would not be available at home.

I wanted to challenge myself and develop my abilities. I knew I had the confidence, friendliness, and adaptability to complete a placement abroad, so I went for it. I was passionate about helping others and wanted to experience this in a new environment. After reading all the reviews, Vietnam stood out for me.

When I first visited my placement hospital in Hue, I experienced culture shock. But regularly checking in with the Work the World team and reading stories that former travellers had written on their website prepared me for the experience.

It took a few days to get used to the hospital routine, but I was very impressed with the creativity and adaptability of the staff due to the lack of resources. All patients and hospital staff were lovely from the get-go. 

During my placement, I learned about traditional medicine techniques and the differences between physiotherapy in the UK and Vietnam. I also learnt more about heat therapy and ultrasound techniques and saw how local staff applied them. 

It was also an excellent opportunity to develop my nonverbal communication skills and manual techniques, including massage and mobilisations. I also created my exercise prescription and walking aid prescription.

One memorable case involved an oncology patient with spinal cancer. Her husband had been working long hours to afford a wheelchair, but the patient couldn’t move. I decided to buy a wheelchair for the patient. It helped financially, but more than that, I hoped it improved her quality of life. 

I also really enjoyed working with many children during my time with the OT. It was fulfilling to know that I could contribute to the quality of their lives from a young age and help provide the best possible outcomes in later life.

I saw many differences between the local healthcare system in Vietnam and that of my home country. In UK outpatient departments, patients have an average of three to four appointments, and local staff rarely perform manual techniques. In Vietnam, patients attend the clinic daily for a long time, and the main focus is manual techniques. 

When it came to inpatients, I recognised that patients in the UK who required physical therapy received it daily until their physiotherapist was satisfied. Treatment in the UK took place in large, modern rooms. In Vietnam, healthcare staff only saw patients who needed physical therapy on the wards when the tiny rooms were packed full—two patients to one bed.

In the evenings, we explored Hue, visiting bars and shops, walking along the river, and making new friends. Of course, Thursday’s BBQ night was always a fun evening. We also spent a lot of time at the tailors and the spa getting massages!

At the weekends we travelled to Da Nang and Hoi An and did as much as we could in the time we had! I also explored Hue, including the Imperial City and the hot springs. There was so much to do and see!

Since my experience overseas, I have completely changed my mindset. I now appreciate the privileges we have at home in our healthcare system. 

The Work the World staff, hospital staff, patients, and locals were terrific and have become family. They are the most positive and outstanding individuals who have rubbed off on me! In addition, the clinical experience has shaped me as a physiotherapist - I will 100% be better for it. 

I am usually a homebody and have never travelled or been on a plane alone, so this was a massive challenge. However, I knew I wanted to do it, and I will be forever grateful that I did. It was truly life-changing in the best way possible.

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