A Tanzanian ENT

The last couple of weeks my ears have been ringing. I had been to the Ears Nose and Throat ward of KCMC before to see what was needed for visit. From that visit I got the impression that it would not be difficult to see a doctor just come in and open a file. The first real visit, which came after the first night of ringing was surprisingly frustrating. I walked through the gates and walked to the reception
window with the sign in swahili new visitors with a letter. This was next to the sign of pay here. I asked which line to stand in and waited. A couple of people cut in front of me but I eventually made it to the front. Where I was asked where my card was. Since I clearly had no card they gave me directions to someplace, but not really understanding them I wandered around places that seemed likely. Some people tried in vain to help. Eventually, I did as I had done the other day and walked to the ENT and into the doctor's office. I talked to the doctor and he gave me the slip to open the file. After paying for the file I was given a number. Somehow, I think the number system is loosely used since not long after my file was received my name was called. The visit was surprisingly brief the doctor asked a few questions and quickly diagnosed an upper respiratory infection. He examined my ears and cleaned out my ears. He removed a surprisingly large clot from my left ear (the one that felt the most congested and rang the most). This satisfied him but since my ear did not feel any better and even slightly worse I was expecting more. Nonetheless, he said the ear
would feel better soon and prescribed medicine.

Well the ringing did not get better so after four days of persistent ringing I returned to KCMC. I of course did not have an appointment but figured the hard part of opening a file had been done, just show up early and see the doctor. I showed up early but found that I needed to have an appointment on my card to get my file. To get an appointment I needed to see the doctor, but the right doctor did come until noon. Fortunately, I had the foresight to bring a book. After the doctor came he signed my card and they got my file. I did not get a number or the expedited service. A few more hours later my name was called and I saw the doctor. Not the one I saw before but he was still willing to help me. He asked a few more questions and of course looked into my ears, which were very clean. Not only did he take my blood pressure but had the nurse give me a hearing test. I think the test was mostly a placebo, but it built my confidence nonetheless. He said the problem was in my middle ear and gave me some different meds. These worked much better and for the last few days have only had the ringing periodically.

I should note that though this email probably sounds like I am complaining about the hospital process, I am still impressed by it. First of all I am lucky to have been admitted at all, clearly references and appointments are expected and for non-white people are probably required. I was exceptionally lucky to come in on the days of the ENT specialists (Tue and Thurs) and get treated without an appointment. Also the doctors are very busy and have very limited testing facilities. I did not expect them to get it right on the first time (but was really hoping for it), and am glad that my condition has improved.

Picture courtesy www.ausaid.gov.au