From Theory to Practice: Reflections of a Medical Student's Rural Posting in a Leprosy Hospital

Abstract

This article reflects on a medical student's rural posting at a Nigerian Leprosy Hospital. Despite Nigeria's 1998 Leprosy elimination achievement, the disease has persisted in marginalized communities. Leprosy, a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD), is associated with poverty and social stigma. The rural posting offered insight into the clinical and psychosocial aspects of Leprosy. The article also emphasized the role of medical students in eradicating diseases via awareness campaigns, collaboration with health organizations, early case identification, and improved rural healthcare.

Keywords

• Community Health Services
• Nigeria
• Leprosy
• Medical Students
• Rural Health
• Neglected Diseases