Things To Bring #9 - Cell Phone

I think it's a mixed blessing to bring a cell phone to Haiti.  It's comforting to have an emergency backup to exchange information with the folks back home, especially if you're in Haiti by yourself.  On the other hand, part of me feels that it takes away from the overall experience to be so readily accessible.  I didn't activate mine during the two weeks I was there as I didn't want to be deluged with "emergent" requests for back to work orders or excuses from PE.

I must admit that it could get a little annoying trying to care for patients with a team member who is constantly taking a break to receive a call from a concerned loved one wanting yet another update. 

Maybe a reasonable compromise would be to have one member of your group be the designated contact person for emergencies only.  There is also a free land line in the break room that you can access, if it's not too busy, to call home if necessary.

Never the less, if you feel compelled to use your own cell phone during your stint at Hopital Adventiste, it is in your best interest to contact your carrier in advance to determine what the best pricing options are.

Haiti uses a GSM network.  CDMA phones do NOT work in Haiti.  Click here to find out more about the difference between the two technologies.

AT&T is widely believed to provide the best service at HAH.  If you're an AT&T customer, discounted roaming packages are outlined here.

If Verizon's your carrier, here are the rates if placing a call from Haiti or in Haiti receiving a call from the US.

If you're a Sprint customer, click here and select Haiti.

If you're paying the phone bill to T-Mobile, click here.