Since 2008
Handicap International's health team in Haiti, which has been treating massive numbers of injuries, estimates there are now more than 2,000 amputees because of injuries sustained in the earthquake, up from Monday's estimate of 1,000. While continuing to provide emergency assistance, Handicap International is also planning long-term action to treat the wounded and support their recovery.
Handicap International has extensive expertise in providing emergency response to earthquakes and other natural disasters, including the 2008 hurricanes in Haiti and the earthquake in China. The international organization works to bring about lasting change in the living conditions of people in disabling situations in more than 60 postconflict or low-income countries around the world. Handicap International's eight national associations, based in Europe, Canada and the United States, work together to provide human and financial resources, manage projects and raise awareness of the organization's work.
Handicap International is recruiting 15 physical therapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) to provide direct care for people injured and disabled in Haiti's devastating earthquake. Therapists are needed in hospital settings to help people recover from their injuries, avoid secondary complications and prevent or mitigate long-term disability. Some therapists will provide community-based services in displaced persons camps. Positions will become available February 1, 2010, and contracts will range from one to eight months. Nonmanagerial positions require a commitment of at least six weeks. Project managers need to commit to at least six months in Haiti.
