COMBASE Hospital in Cochabamba

The centrally located COMBASE Hospital in Cochabamba serves approximately 100 outpatients per day and has 15 beds for inpatient care.

The departments and specialties include General Medicine, Family Medicine, Gynecology & Obstetrics, Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Urology, ENT, Neurology, Dermatology, Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Psychiatry/Psychology, Dentistry, and Physiotherapy. The hospital is equipped with a laboratory, X-ray, and ultrasound facilities, as well as an in-house pharmacy.

Operated by a Christian church, the hospital primarily serves low-income populations. Additionally, there is an outreach program with five locations in Cochabamba’s outskirts, such as in the area of the Nueva Canáan Church, where COMBASE medical staff provide treatment.

Activities for Elective and Nursing Internships

Electives and nursing internships are available for students or trainees in Medicine, Nursing, and Physiotherapy. Pre-medical and pre-nursing internships are possible even if you are not yet enrolled at medical school. You can either intern in your preferred specialty or rotate through various departments. Participation in the outreach programs is also possible when they are scheduled. This offers an exciting opportunity to gain insight into medical care in a so called developing country and to familiarize yourself with various medical conditions.

You will observe and assist the staff in your assigned department with their daily tasks. After an orientation and adjustment period, you may (depending on your prior knowledge) perform minor treatments and tasks under the supervision of medical staff, nursing personnel, or therapists. These activities could include administering medication, wound care, vital sign measurements, vaccinations, and other supportive tasks. A mentor from your specialty will be assigned to you, determining which examinations and treatments you can carry out under supervision.

You will typically intern from Monday to Friday.