DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Chip Hunter, a psychiatrist from Durham, has returned from the Democratic Republic of the Congo after working with Doctors Without Borders during a significant Ebola outbreak response. He aims to inspire others to consider volunteering in global humanitarian efforts.
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Hunter spent part of his summer in Congo, contributing to the establishment of a 350-bed hospital in about three to four weeks. The project brought together architects, engineers, construction specialists, and water and sanitation experts, all working collaboratively to build the facility from the ground up.
While often called a doctor, Hunter clarified that he is a psychiatrist. He emphasized the importance of varied skills in humanitarian missions, stating, "We have logistics, epidemiologists, and health educators who are not necessarily medical personnel leading these activities."
One of Hunter's main roles was to support the mental health of patients, families, and healthcare workers facing the emotional strain of the outbreak. "We had mental health activities for the staff," he explained, noting the profound stress endured by nurses who form attachments to the critically ill children they care for. Mental health services were also provided for patients and their families dealing with illness and loss.
Reflecting on experiences from the COVID-19 pandemic, Hunter highlighted the interconnectedness of global health crises. "It’s really important to be aware of these things going on around the world and not just in your backyard," he noted, adding that distance is negligible in a globalized world.
Doctors Without Borders continues to seek volunteers from a range of professional backgrounds to aid in humanitarian missions worldwide.