Heading Home and Expat health care

Well, I've thrown in the towel with the 'local' doctors. Munchkin #2 and I are heading for the home country.

I live in this place where the hospitals and clinics are all new and pretty on the outside. Many times, the equipment is also new and pretty. But, it is so very frustrating to be told that, "No can't help you. Go home." At least the docs have the courage and honesty to say that. I totally admire that level of honesty and courage. I admire so very many people here which is part of what I love about living here.

I find it totally fascinating that so very many leaders from so many countries in this region head to Europe or the States for medical care. Why? Just an interesting question; don't you think?

I've met some really great doctors who have left the region because working here is so very very different from what they are used to. Folks here are very business savvy, and they work hard to attract great talent. I just so wish we could keep all that talent in the region. I think, folks leave because no matter how pretty, no matter how good the money, if you're not cut out for expat life then you won't be happy. Education of the local population is totally key. But, all the important folks here know that and are actively working on it. It's a complex problem. Again, more admiration from me. Complex problems take loads of work and vision.

When we made the choice to change countries and become expats, besides school for the munchkins, my other MAJOR concern was access to health care. I DEMANDED that we always have an exit strategy (ie a way to head for home if local docs couldn't do what we needed). It's been over four years now, and we're having to use that exit strategy.

If you EVER think about moving countries, take a long hard look at available health care. Just because it's shiny and pretty doesn't mean they'll be able to fix you. Just hope the doctors you encounter are honest. This region may not be perfect, but at least I've encountered a lot of folks with a lot of integrity.

Peace.