Angkor Hospital for Children

Angkor Hospital for Children (AHC) is a non-profit pediatric teaching hospital located in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It was founded in 1999 with the aim of providing high-quality healthcare to children in Cambodia who cannot afford it. The hospital is renowned for its comprehensive healthcare services, which include outpatient care, inpatient care, emergency care, surgical services, dental care, and a range of specialized clinics. Additionally, AHC plays a crucial role in medical education and training for Cambodian healthcare professionals and conducts significant research into pediatric health issues relevant to Cambodia.

History

The idea for Angkor Hospital for Children was conceived by Kenro Izu, a Japanese photographer who was moved by the healthcare challenges faced by children in Cambodia during a photography trip in 1993. The hospital was officially opened in 1999, after years of planning, fundraising, and construction. Since its inception, AHC has grown significantly, both in terms of infrastructure and the scope of services offered, becoming a key player in Cambodia's healthcare system, particularly in pediatric care.

Services

Angkor Hospital for Children offers a wide range of medical services to children up to the age of 16. These services are designed to address the most pressing health issues facing Cambodian children today, including:

• Outpatient Care: General medical consultations and treatment for a wide range of conditions.
• Inpatient Care: Comprehensive care for children requiring hospitalization, including intensive care services for critically ill patients.
• Emergency Care: 24/7 emergency services, equipped to handle acute medical and surgical emergencies.
• Surgical Services: A variety of surgical procedures, including minor and major surgeries.
• Dental Care: Dental check-ups, treatments, and surgeries for children.
• Specialized Clinics: Clinics focusing on specific health issues, such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malnutrition.

Education and Training

AHC is committed to improving healthcare in Cambodia through education and training. The hospital serves as a teaching facility for Cambodian medical students, nurses, and healthcare professionals. It offers a range of training programs, workshops, and continuing education opportunities in pediatric care, aiming to build a skilled healthcare workforce in Cambodia.

Research

Research is a key component of AHC's mission. The hospital conducts research on pediatric health issues that are prevalent in Cambodia, contributing valuable data and insights that inform public health policies and practices. This research is often conducted in collaboration with international health organizations and research institutions.

Impact

Since its establishment, Angkor Hospital for Children has had a profound impact on pediatric healthcare in Cambodia. It has provided free or low-cost healthcare to thousands of children, improved the quality of pediatric care available in the region, and contributed to the training of a new generation of Cambodian healthcare professionals.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite its successes, AHC faces ongoing challenges, including securing sustainable funding, managing the growing demand for its services, and addressing the evolving healthcare needs of Cambodia's children. Looking forward, AHC aims to expand its services, further develop its training and research programs, and continue to play a vital role in improving child health outcomes in Cambodia.