Needs assessment, community work and database management : Flamme de Charité

Abstract

Flamme de Charité is a non-governmental organization based in Lebanon that aims to improve the health and well-being of vulnerable populations, particularly low-income individuals. As part of its efforts, Flamme de Charité offers an 18-week internship program to students pursuing degrees in public health, medicine, nursing, and related fields.The internship program is located primarily in Sin El Fil, Bourj Hammoud, and Nabaa, three underserved areas in Lebanon with a high concentration of vulnerable populations. The program's objectives include providing students with hands-on experience in public health practice and research, promoting cultural exchange and understanding, and contributing to the organization's ongoing efforts to improve the health of the local communities.Interns participate in a range of activities, including conducting needs assessments and screenings, developing data base sheet,developing and implementing research studies, and participating in community engagement activities. The program's methodology involves a mix of qualitative and quantitative research methods, including surveys, interviews,and observation.The internship program has yielded several positive outcomes, including increased awareness and knowledge of public health issues and practices among intern, improved skills in data entry, collection and analysis, and enhanced cross-cultural communication and understanding. Additionally, the research studies conducted by the intern have contributed to the organization's understanding of health needs and gaps in the local communities and have informed its ongoing efforts to design and implement effective health interventions.The internship program's public health relevance lies in its focus on addressing the needs of vulnerable populations in underserved areas, contributing to ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes, reduce health disparities, and develop a deep understanding of the social determinants of health. Through the program, interns gain valuable experience and skills that can be applied to their future careers in public health and related fields, while also contributing to the organization's mission of improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves.