I have been working at two local shelters (work closely with Jewish Family Services and Catholic Charities) in San Diego that serve as the Asylum Clinic. For background, an individual who is seeking asylum is a person who has left their country and is seeking protection from persecution and serious human rights violations in another country, but who hasn’t yet been legally recognized as a refugee and is waiting to receive a decision on their asylum claim. It is interesting to see how things will change now with the recent end to Title 42.
The clinic uses evidence-based health protocols for commonly seen issues such as: tuberculosis-like symptoms, scabies, varicella, mental health screening, COVID, influenza-like illnesses, gastroenteritis, newborn care, pregnancy, diabetes, uncontrolled hypertension, and general emergency department referrals. Additionally, the most common countries of origin of shelter guests (2018-2020) are Mexico, Haiti, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. I also see many individuals from Russia and Somalia.
I have worked alongside two Internal Medicine residents who are part of the Global Health track at UCSD. They had me lead all the patient encounters and I also gave my input on plan/management. Which made me feel better prepared for what’s to come at the start of intern year!
The opportunity to participate in the care of a diverse population of individuals has been an absolute privilege. I have learned so much about their various journeys, many heartbreaking. Some through harsh conditions (across jungles, deserts, mountains). Yet, they remain with strength, a sense of positivity and hope. A display of unfathomable resilience. I will carry this experience with me throughout my medical career.
Outside of the shelter and one of my last days of medical school!
