Clinical Fellowship in South Africa in HIV/AIDS and Developing World Medicine

The UT Southwestern Clinical Fellowship in South Africa offers an opportunity for an in depth experience in HIV/AIDS and Developing World Medicine. The program was instituted by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center to assist the Waterberg Welfare Society’s efforts to care for HIV infected and affected children and adults. This fellowship was made possible by a generous gift from Linda W. Hart and Milledge A. Hart III along with the support of the Wilson Education Foundation, founded by Trisha Wilson, and the Simmons Foundation.

To be eligible, applicants must be upper level residents or fellows, or be physicians who have completed their training in internal medicine, pediatrics, or family practice. Seasoned, experienced physicians are welcome to apply as well. For a minimum commitment of 3 months, extending up to 12 months if desired, participants will be provided with a generous stipend, airfare and safe/secure housing.  

Goals

  • Help the Waterberg Welfare Society care for the HIV infected and affected children and adults of the Waterberg District of South Africa.
  • Provide an educational and enlightening medical experience for participants (HIV/AIDS & Developing World Medicine).

Services

Dr. Peter Farrant, allied with the Waterberg Welfare Society (WWS), is deeply involved in the issues of HIV/AIDS care among rural people in South Africa. Clinical Fellows in South Africa have the opportunity to work with Dr. Farrant and through the WWS offer the following services:

Education & Support

  • HIV testing and counselling
  • Orphan & vulnerable children program
  • People living with AIDS support group
  • School based education and training
  • Facilitate government HIV services for those who are eligible

Medical Services

  • Acute medical evaluation and treatment of HIV/AIDS patients
  • Prevention of mother to child HIV transmission counselling and therapy
  • Initiation and management of antiretroviral HIV therapy in children and adults
  • Clinic and home based convalescent & palliative care
  • Directly observed tuberculosis therapy support in the community
  • Adherence counselling to clients on antiretroviral HIV therapy
  • Support of clients in government antiretroviral HIV therapy program
  • Train network of Community Health Care Workers in HIV education and prevention as well as general public health measures