An international telehealth experience in Guatemala

Abstract

An increase in competition for nurse practitioner preceptors and United States-based clinical practicum sites along with an increase in required direct patient care clinical hours demand innovative methods for gaining valuable nurse practitioner clinical experiences. Involving nurse practitioner students in medical mission trips to low-resource countries and follow-up telehealth clinics have been beneficial for all involved. Guatemala is a developing country in Latin America that has a high rate of poverty, malnutrition, and a lack of health care. Annual medical mission trips are beneficial in meeting the health care needs of Guatemalans but lack the frequent follow-up necessary to promote a more sustained impact. A monthly telehealth program was established in a rural area of Guatemala to promote the continuity of care for children with malnutrition. This article discusses associated barriers, strategies to overcome those barriers, and the inclusion of nurse practitioner students to meet the needs of the Guatemalan children with malnutrition using a telehealth program.