About Caribbean Electives Abroad (CEA)
Founded in 2018, Caribbean Electives Abroad (CEA) connects students with rewarding medical electives in St. Vincent & the Grenadines (SVG). Our programs combine hands-on clinical experience with cultural immersion, helping students gain valuable skills while supporting local healthcare.
Our Mission
We aim to provide memorable, impactful electives. Each program is tailored to give students practical medical experience, cultural exposure, and opportunities to make a real difference in the community.
Meet Our Team
Khari Dougan – Director
Khari met Dr. Stephanie Clark, founder of Medical Electives Abroad (MEA), during her elective in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. In 2019, they recognized the need for a multi-facilitated, progressive elective program – leading to the creation of CEA.
With a background in investment banking, business development, and international experience across New York, Europe, and Asia, Khari brings a global perspective. He is passionate about connecting students with SVG in ways that benefit the local community and provide a rewarding, immersive experience.
Dr. Tom Boulter – Elective Partner
Dr. Tom Boulter first came to SVG in 2014, arranging his elective independently. He faced challenges with hospital contacts, immigration protocols, accommodation, and navigating a foreign country.
After connecting with Khari, Tom found the experience incredibly rewarding and memorable. Now a licensed General Practitioner, he is a core CEA partner. His first-hand experience helps ensure our programs are designed by doctors with your elective in mind.
Read Dr Tom Boulter’s Statement Letter to Manchester students.
Chris Callahan – Marketing
Chris is an entrepreneur specializing in international business development and marketing. He has lived and worked in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and leads CEA’s marketing efforts.
Previously, Chris ran a TV production company in Malaysia and studied at Columbia University in New York. His global perspective supports the development of a program that is professional, immersive, and culturally engaging.
Additional Key People
👤 Dr Hughes Dougan – Elective Practitioner
Dr Dougan is one of SVG’s top and most well-known doctors. The former chief surgeon at Morristown Medical Center in New Jersey (USA), Dr Dougan founded the Hughes Dougan Foundation and created the Hughes D. Dougan MD Award in SVG. He is also Khari’s father, which is where Khari derives his medical background and credentials from.
👤 Dr Perry Defreitas – Elective Supervisor
Elective Supervisor, ensuring students gain hands-on, safe clinical experience.
👤 Dr Stephanie Clarke – Founder of Medical Electives Abroad.
Although she passed away, Dr. Stephanie’s experience and personality led to the founding of CEA. To a large extent, it is her vision, compassion, and pioneering spirit that continue to shape who we are today.
Affiliated Hospitals & Clinics
- Arnos Vale Medical Centre – A private hospital with an operating theatre and in-patient facilities covering most disciplines. This is where most students do their electives.
- Private clinics – We place some students here for more family-doctor oriented experiences.
- Public Clinics – For students looking for truly local, grassroots medical experiences, students have access to both Stubbs Poly Clinic or Caliaqua Health Centre.
Our Partners
CEA has strong, long-standing relationships across SVG. We connect students with organizations and opportunities that align with their personal and professional goals. These partnerships allow us to provide tailored experiences that enhance both learning and cultural immersion.
FAQ
You need a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining from your date of arrival.
Yes. St. Vincent and the Grenadines is considered safe, and locals are welcoming. Still, exercise usual precautions: keep your money and property secure, respect local customs, and travel in groups at night.
Yes. We recommend getting a local SIM card for easier communication. We can also help arrange this for you.
We welcome partnerships. Please contact us at
[email protected]
or visit our Contact Us page.
No. Meals are not included in the elective package.
The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD or EC$). Many businesses accept US cash (notes only, not coins). Most shops and bars on mainland St. Vincent accept VISA, Mastercard, or American Express, though some locations in the Grenadines may not. There are several banks in Kingstown and ATMs throughout the country for convenient cash access.
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