#theVIPexperience Post #81: Bijeta Pradhan

The Crossroad Health Center Volunteer Internship Program is a perfect opportunity for a student in university to learn more about health care, service, faith, and how to work in a community to help others. As a pre-med student, I stumbled upon this opportunity through a friend of mine who had previously interned here as well. I was intrigued by this program and highly pleased when I was accepted into the program. I got the opportunity to shadow two different providers at Crossroad, work with MAs, and Nurse Practitioners and interact with patients of various backgrounds. Through the program, I have understood the various barriers that the underprivileged face when dealing with health care and have been able to talk to them about it. I have realized that a simple phone call to remind them of their appointment means so much to them as they are often caught up in their own busy lives and may forget about their appointment. Many of them are unable to make appointments for their referrals as some hospitals do not take their insurance. Hence, when we schedule their appointments for them and are also able to schedule transportation for them, they are happy and thankful. Most patients that I have spoken to are so grateful for everything that we do, that it makes my day. At Crossroads, everyone involved in the patient’s healthcare is dedicated, service oriented and are working hard to be able to make a positive difference. I truly enjoy the time that I spend at Crossroads and look forward to working here for many more weeks to come.