Orthopedic Technician

About Berhan Lehetsanat (BL)

Berhan Lehetsanat (BL) is an Ethiopian NGO established in 1997 (originally as Handicap National) that works primarily with disabled children and other vulnerable groups, with a special focus on girls and their parents/guardians. The organization's mission is to achieve the inclusion and empowerment of these children through comprehensive prevention and rehabilitation community development interventions.

BL's work includes:

• Rehabilitation of Children with Disability: Implementing a comprehensive community-based rehabilitation (CBR) program.
• Health Services: Direct provision of physiotherapy, occupational therapy (OT), and orthopaedic appliances to children with disabilities.
• Other Programs: Inclusive education, livelihood/economic empowerment for parents, disability prevention, and rights/safeguarding promotion.
• The organization's headquarters is in Addis Ababa and implements projects in multiple regions of Ethiopia. The name translates roughly to "Light for Children" in Amharic, reflecting its goal to bring hope to disadvantaged children.

Position Title

Volunteer Orthopaedic Technician Assistant

Summary of Role

The Volunteer Orthopaedic Technician Assistant provides non-clinical and technical support to the specialized clinical staff at the Berhan Lehetsanat Orthopaedic Center. This role is crucial in managing the environment and logistics for the delivery of orthopaedic services, such as casting and splinting, to children with musculoskeletal disabilities (e.g., clubfoot, cerebral palsy, spinal bifida).

Key Volunteer Responsibilities

• Orthopaedic Center Support:
  • Monitor, organize, and replenish stock for all necessary supplies, including cast materials (plaster and fiberglass), splints, braces, and dressings.
  • Assist with the inventory of Durable Medical Equipment (DME) like crutches and wheelchairs, ensuring they are clean and functional for patient use.
• Patient and Family Logistics (Child-Focused):
  • Safely escort children and their parents/guardians to and from the treatment areas.
  • Assist staff in preparing the child for examinations or procedures as instructed (e.g., positioning for a cast application).
  • Maintain a calm and friendly presence to support children and families awaiting services.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent is required. An interest in orthopaedics, rehabilitation, athletic training, or pediatric care is preferred.
• Skills & Attributes:
  • Demonstrated compassion and patience, especially when working with children with disabilities.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to follow detailed instructions from clinical staff.
  • Commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality.
  • Physical ability to stand for long periods and assist in the movement of equipment and children (e.g., using a wheelchair).

Commitment

• Minimum Commitment Period: Volunteers must commit to for a minimum period of 4 weeks and above.