About the clinic: RHA serves vulnerable patients at the US-Mexico border, primarily refugees currently awaiting to present themselves for asylum. There are a wide range of medical conditions seen at the clinic, including anything from viral upper respiratory tract infections to more complicated management of chronic diseases (eg HTN, DM). We see a cohort of prenatal patients and assist them throughout their pregnancies along with a local midwife. RHA also serves the LGBTQIA+ refugee community, with provision of culturally competent services and hormonal therapy. In addition to refugees, the clinic also serves a variety of populations a the border including deportees and internally displaced individuals. This includes the provision of harm reduction services. At the clinic we also perform minor procedures such as I&D of abscesses, Nexplanon removals, chronic wound care, lipoma excisions, laceration repairs, toe nail removals, etc.

Safety: While Tijuana can be a dangerous place, previous resident volunteers have felt very comfortable staying/living in Tijuana for the month. Please use your best judgement while staying in Tijuana. Chose a place to live that is close to clinic and avoid walking along after dark. However, if using common sense and judgment, no residents have had any safety issues while staying in Tijuana.

Housing: There are plenty of hotels and Airbnbs available in Tijuana very close to clinic. There is also the option of staying in San Diego although this would involve a longer commute in the morning.

Cost: RHA is not able to provide funding for residents at this time, thus the cost of housing, food and transportation to and from the rotation falls to the resident. However, many programs offer funding for residents to participate in abroad electives. We ask that residents attempt to fundraise for the clinic in advance of their rotation. Please ask your specific residency program about funding opportunities.