October 15, 2024
News
Telemedicine is revolutionising healthcare by using technology to bring medical and care services to those who need them most - such as the elderly people, those with limited mobility, or people living in remote areas. Mihaela and Laurențiu are two young volunteers who have joined the telemedicine initiative run by Caritas Czech Republic in Moldova. Through the volunteer experience, they have not only developed vital skills for the future but also learned the true meaning of empathy, as they gained a deeper understanding of the specific needs of people in vulnerable position.
Can you briefly introduce yourselves and share what inspires you?
Laurențiu: My name is Laurențiu, I live in the village of Țaul, Dondușeni district, and I am a student at Țaul Gymnasium. I love volunteering and playing volleyball, among other things.
Mihaela: I am Mihaela, 16 years old, and I am a student at Ștefan Vodă Theoretical High School. I am a volunteer at the „Maria Magdalena” Medical-Social centre, and I like to dedicate my time and knowledge to support people in need. My hobbies include painting and making people smile.
How did you first hear about the telemedicine initiative, and what made you want to get involved?
Laurențiu: My mom works at the Sfânta Iuliana Medical-Social centre, and she introduced me to the initiative. From the beginning, I was inspired to help her, and that is how I decided to get involved as well, seeing how much good volunteering can do.
Mihaela: I was already involved in other activities at the Maria Magdalena centre and that is where I heard about the need for volunteers to help the elderly people.
I wanted to contribute to an initiative that brings positive changes to the lives of elderly people and those living alone.
As a volunteer, you have had chance to work closely with people that receive telemedicine services. What valuable experiences have you gained from these interactions?
Laurențiu: Working with elderly people has really improved my communication skills and taught me to offer them help when they need it.
I have also learned many interesting and useful things from them - interesting stories and life lessons that have helped me grow.
Mihaela: Through my work, I have seen how telemedicine truly makes a difference, giving people access to consultations from specialists without having to travel. I have also learned how to listen more attentively and how to provide practical advice to help people better manage their health.
Working with people in vulnerable positions such as the elderly people or people with disabilities can be challenging, especially when it comes to new technologies. What are some of the obstacles they face when using telemedicine platforms, and how do you, as volunteers, help address these challenges?
Laurențiu: The most common problem is the difficulty elderly people face in traveling to medical centres or purchasing their own medications. The telemedicine platform allows them to solve these problems without needing to travel. As volunteers, we provide the necessary support for them to use the platform efficiently.
Mihaela: Many elderly people and those living with disabilities struggle with access to technology or communication barriers. Through volunteering, I try to help overcome these challenges by offering simple explanations or technical support in using the platforms.
How do you think the skills and experiences you have gained from this project will help you in the future?
Laurențiu: This experience has enriched me both spiritually and socially. I am learning new things, and I am sure these skills will help me in the future, no matter what career path I choose.
Mihaela: This project has sharpened my communication and deepened my sense of empathy. I have learned how to tackle various professional and personal challenges, and I believe these skills will help me become a more competent and flexible professional in the future.
Caritas Czech Republic: Supporting innovation in social care
Caritas Czech Republic, in partnership with AO Homecare, has established 11 home care centres across Moldova. In addition to social assistance, these centres provide healthcare services. Many elderly people in Moldova face challenges in supporting themselves, and visiting doctors located far from their homes is often expensive.
Volunteers like Mihaela and Laurențiu assist in helping these persons and show that volunteering is not only a way to help the community but also an opportunity to grow and learn new things.
Thanks to financial support from the Czech Development Agency, we have introduced telemedicine services in 8 health centres across Moldova. As part of this development, 24 medical and social workers now provide consultations and care services for the elderly and those in need of long-term care.
