Hi everyone Today was my first proper day in the hospital. The hospital I am working in mainly a state hospital but also takes some private patients. The main differences between private and state funded patients are that private patients pay for newer drugs. It is a very clean and appears to be an efficiently run hospital. It does not have as many of the technological mod cons as the hospitals in the UK they rely much more on clinical examination. I have mainly been attending ward rounds and teachings with the other students. The students seem to be taught in very large groups on ward rounds, I think I counted about 20 this morning. This is a lot for anyone who doesn't know. I hve been asked to clerk a patient for teaching later. This was easier than i expected, mainly aided by the fact the patient spoke English. The patients and staff come from many different backgrounds and speak several different languages so somtimes language is a problem, even for local doctors, but not always. Anyway will update you all soon Helen I have to to back for some teaching again soon so will write another note shortly. Next time i promise to remember all the bits for my camera and post some pictures. Helen