medical mission trips for nurses 2023

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10 Best Medical Mission Trips 2023 & 2024: Make a Difference

Medical mission trips present a fantastic opportunity for individuals, particularly those in the healthcare sector, to utilize their skills and expertise for the betterment of the world. Even for those who aren’t healthcare professionals, there’s still a vast array of volunteering opportunities in developing nations.

This blog post will serve as a guide, highlighting 10 notable medical mission trips taking place in 2023 and 2024. We will delve into the various types of mission trips, and the advantages of being a volunteer, and provide insights on how you can select a trip that matches your interests and skills.

Exploring the Diversity of Medical Mission Trips

A medical mission trip is essentially a short-term volunteer program enabling you to extend healthcare services to those in need in underprivileged nations. These trips are orchestrated by various entities such as churches, hospitals, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

The nature of these medical mission trips can be diverse. Some are aimed at providing essential healthcare services like vaccinations, treatment of common diseases, and wound care. In contrast, others are centered on more specialized care like surgeries, dental services, or mental healthcare.

Benefits of Volunteering

There are many benefits to volunteering on a medical mission trip. These benefits include:

• Making a difference in the world. Medical mission trips are a great way to use your skills and experience to help people in need. You can make a real difference in the lives of people who would not otherwise have access to healthcare.
• Gaining new skills and experience. These trips can be a great way to gain new skills and experience in the medical field. You will have the opportunity to work with experienced healthcare professionals and learn new techniques.
• Experiencing a new culture.  Medical mission trips are a great way to experience a new culture and learn about different ways of life. You will have the opportunity to meet new people and learn about their customs and traditions.
• Growing personally and spiritually. Healthcare mission trips can be a great way to grow personally and spiritually. You will have the opportunity to reflect on your own life and values, and you will learn about the importance of compassion and service.

How to Find the Right Mission Trip for You

There are a few things to consider when choosing a medical mission trip. These include:

• Your skills and experience. What are your skills and experience in the healthcare field? If you’re a doctor, you’ll need to find a trip that offers clinical opportunities. If you’re a nurse, you might be interested in a trip that focuses on providing basic medical care.
• Your interests.  What are your interests in the medical field? Are you interested in working with children, women, or the elderly? Are you interested in providing specialized care, such as surgery or dentistry?
• Your budget. Mission trips can vary in price. Some trips are very affordable, while others can be quite expensive.
• Your schedule.  How much time do you have to commit to a medical mission trip? Some trips are only a few days long, while others can last several weeks.

Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start your search for the right medical mission trip. There are a number of resources available to help you find a trip that’s right for you. You can search online, talk to your church or hospital, or contact an NGO that organizes these trips.

10 Best Medical Mission Trips 2023 & 2024

Here are 10 of the best medical mission trips in 2023 & 2024:

1. Project Medishare: Haiti

Project Medishare is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing healthcare services to the underserved population of Haiti. The organization conducts various medical mission trips, opening opportunities for doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to volunteer their services.

You can participate in tasks ranging from basic healthcare provision to specialized care, depending on your expertise.

2. Global Brigades: Guatemala

Global Brigades organizes health, dental, and engineering brigades to serve in developing countries. For those interested in medical volunteer work, they offer numerous mission trips to Guatemala.

These trips are tailored for different healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare staff, and they focus on improving local healthcare infrastructure and providing necessary medical services.

3. AmeriCares: Kenya

AmeriCares, a global non-profit, extends medical care and relief services to needy populations worldwide. They coordinate a variety of mission trips to Kenya , allowing doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide vital healthcare services in underserved regions.

Their work often involves treating common illnesses, conducting health education, and improving local healthcare facilities.

4. Doctors Without Borders: Sierra Leone

Doctors Without Borders is an international medical humanitarian organization renowned for providing healthcare assistance to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or exclusion from healthcare. Among their numerous programs, they organize medical mission trips to Sierra Leone, creating opportunities for healthcare professionals to provide critical care in a country still recovering from a prolonged civil war and an Ebola outbreak.

5. Children’s Heart Foundation: Honduras

The Children’s Heart Foundation is a non-profit that focuses on providing cardiac care to children in developing countries. They run several medical mission trips to Honduras.

These trips are ideal for doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals specializing in cardiac care, as they will be directly involved in providing life-saving treatments to children with heart conditions.

6. Project Hope: Tanzania

Project Hope is another global non-profit that extends medical assistance to those in need. They organize a variety of mission trips to Tanzania , offering opportunities for healthcare professionals to volunteer their services.

The range of healthcare services provided during these trips depends on the needs of the communities served and the expertise of the volunteers.

7. Partners in Health: Peru

Partners in Health is a non-profit that focuses on providing medical services to people in need in developing countries. Their mission trips to Peru allow healthcare professionals to volunteer their services and provide much-needed healthcare to underserved communities.

8. Habitat for Humanity: Nepal

While known for building homes, Habitat for Humanity also organizes medical mission trips to Nepal. These trips provide volunteers with an opportunity to offer care to individuals in need while contributing to the construction and improvement of homes and community facilities.

9. Smile Train: Peru

Smile Train is a non-profit dedicated to providing cleft lip and palate surgery to children in developing countries. They organize medical mission trips to Peru, where healthcare professionals can volunteer to provide surgical services and other healthcare to children affected by cleft lip and palate conditions.

10. International Medical Corps: Rwanda

International Medical Corps is a global non-profit that provides to people in need in developing countries. They offer a range of mission trips to Rwanda, creating opportunities for healthcare professionals to volunteer their services in communities that lack sufficient healthcare infrastructure and resources.

Additional Tips

Planning and participating in a medical mission trip is a substantial commitment. Here are some additional tips to consider as you embark on this journey.

Commence Your Research Early

Medical mission trips are diverse and numerous. Starting your research early gives you ample time to identify a trip that aligns with your skills, interests, and schedule.

Evaluating multiple options will also allow you to find a mission trip that meets your budget and other personal needs.

Consult Your Doctor

If you have any health concerns, it’s essential to discuss them with your doctor before committing to a medical mission trip. Such trips often involve physically strenuous activities and exposure to different climates and environments, which may pose health risks.

Obtain Necessary Training

Depending on the nature of the medical mission trip, you might require specific training. For instance, if your trip involves surgical procedures, you may need certification in basic life support (BLS). Other specialized healthcare areas may also require additional training or certification. Be proactive in understanding and acquiring these prerequisites.

Prepare for Challenges

Embarking on a medical mission trip means stepping out of your comfort zone. Be ready for long working hours, limited resources, and encountering cultural differences. While these aspects can be challenging, they also offer profound opportunities for growth and learning.

Embrace Learning Opportunities

Medical mission trips provide a unique platform to learn from other healthcare professionals and the community you serve. Be open to absorbing new information and techniques, and respect the local customs and traditions. This openness to learning will not only enrich your professional skills but will also contribute significantly to your personal development.

How can I apply for these medical mission trips?

You can apply for these medical mission trips by visiting the respective organization’s website and filling out the application form. Make sure to submit all necessary documents and meet the application deadline.

What qualifications do I need to join a medical mission trip?

The qualifications vary depending on the specific mission trip. Generally, you should be a healthcare professional or a student in a healthcare-related field. Some trips may also accept non-medical volunteers.

What is the duration of these medical mission trips?

The duration of the medical mission trips can range from a few days to several months, depending on the specific program and the needs of the community being served.

Are these medical mission trips safe?

Yes, the safety of volunteers is a top priority for all of these programs. However, as with any travel, there are inherent risks. It’s important to follow all safety guidelines provided by the organization.

Do I need to speak the local language?

While knowing the local language can be beneficial, it is not always a requirement. Many mission trips provide translators. However, learning basic phrases can enhance your experience and interaction with the local community.

Can I earn continuing education credits (CECs) or units (CEUs) by participating in these trips?

Some medical mission trips offer the opportunity to earn CECs or CEUs. You should check with the specific program or your professional licensing board for more information.

Medical mission trips are a great way to make a difference in the world. They offer the opportunity to use your skills and experience to help people in need, gain new skills and experience in the medical field, experience a new culture, and grow personally and spiritually.

I believe that everyone has the potential to make a difference in the world. If you’re looking for a way to use your skills and experience to help others, I encourage you to consider volunteering on a medical mission trip. It’s a truly rewarding experience that can change your life.

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Best Medical Mission Trips 2024 & 2025

International Volunteer HQ offers medical mission trips abroad for aspiring and practicing medical professionals, including pre-med and medical students, doctors, nurses, dentists and other specialties.

With more than 16 years of experience organizing affordable and all-inclusive medical volunteer programs , IVHQ offers top-rated medical missions in Africa, Asia, Central America and South America.

All of IVHQ’s medical mission trips host volunteers year-round with flexible booking so you can easily make free changes to your destination, dates or duration up until 14 days before you start. Our all-inclusive medical mission programs start from only $20 per day and include accommodation, meals, airport pickup and 24/7 in-country support, making them super safe and affordable!

Whether you’re looking for medical missions trips for college students, pre-medical students, undergraduates, medical professionals or medical mission trips for nurses, IVHQ’s team of Volunteer Travel Specialists can help match you with a program that aligns with your personal goals and level of experience. For expert support, you can request personalized program recommendations from our experienced team.

What are medical mission trips?

On a medical mission trip with IVHQ, you will have the opportunity to provide medical care and health education to communities where resources and services are limited or difficult to access. By shadowing local doctors and nurses, you’ll play an important role in providing essential healthcare within under-resourced clinics and hospitals.

Whether you are traveling solo or want to organize a medical mission trip for nurses, college students or professionals, IVHQ makes planning a medical mission easy and affordable. Regardless of your destination, medical mission trips are a unique opportunity to work alongside local medical professionals abroad, gain hands-on career experience you often can’t find at home and provide invaluable support to hospitals and clinics within local communities.

Our programs are fully hosted, including airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support, meaning you can leave home feeling confident that you’ll be well supported in your new home away from home. Plus, you’ll be in the company of like-minded international medical students and professionals who share a passion for developing new skills and a global medical perspective.

Explore medical mission trips

• 2024 & 2025 medical mission trips in your specialty field
• Best medical missions for pre-med students
• Best medical missions for students and professionals?
• Best medical mission trips for nurses and pre-nursing students?

How long can I go on a medical mission trip for?

• Best medical or nursing mission trips for groups

Why go on a medical mission trip?

• Best medical mission trips for 2024 & 2025

How to apply for a medical mission trip

What 2024 & 2025 medical mission trips are available in your specialty field.

IVHQ offers affordable medical mission trips for nursing students and medical students, as well as trips for qualified healthcare professionals. If you’re an aspiring healthcare professional, we also organize medical mission trips for pre-medical students and pre-nursing students .

All volunteers are supervised by local staff and work under instruction from qualified doctors, so regardless of your level of qualification or experience, you’ll be well supported to make a valuable contribution as a medical volunteer abroad.

Check out our range of specialty medical volunteer opportunities:

• Dentistry - Costa Rica , Peru - Cusco , Guatemala , India - Kerala , India - Delhi , Tanzania
• Pharmacy - Peru (Cusco) , Guatemala , India (Delhi) , Zambia , Tanzania
• Physical Therapy and Physiotherapy - Guatemala , Peru (Cusco) , Costa Rica , Mexico , Vietnam , Sri Lanka , China , India (Delhi) , Nepal , Kenya , Romania
• Gynecology - Peru (Cusco) , Guatemala , Sri Lanka , Nepal , Cambodia , Tanzania , Zambia
• HIV/AIDS - Costa Rica , Kenya , Zambia
• Lab Technology - Peru (Cusco) , India (Delhi and Kerala) , Nepal , Tanzania , Zambia
• Midwifery - Peru (Cusco) , Nepal , Zambia , Ghana , Tanzania
• Nutritionist - Peru (Cusco and Lima) , Guatemala
• Optometry - Peru (Cusco) , Tanzania
• Orthopedics - Sri Lanka , Vietnam
• Occupational Therapy - Costa Rica , Mexico , Peru (Cusco) , Guatemala , Sri Lanka , Vietnam , Nepal
• Paramedics - Costa Rica , Guatemala , Peru (Cusco) , Tanzania
• Pediatrics - Peru (Cusco) , Guatemala , Costa Rica , India (Delhi) , Sri Lanka , Nepal , Cambodia , Tanzania , Zambia
• Radiology - Peru (Cusco) , Nepal , India (Delhi) , Vietnam
• Sonography - Peru (Cusco) , Tanzania

All IVHQ programs are open and hosting volunteers

You can make free changes to your booking up to 14 days before you start, and we have additional health and safety measures in place.

Medical missions for pre-med students

If you’re a pre-med student, IVHQ offers a range of medical volunteer opportunities and mission trips for pre-med students that provide you with the hands-on experience needed to excel in your field. You can join IVHQ’s medical volunteer projects in the following locations:

• India (Delhi)
• Peru (Cusco)

Explore pre-med programs

Medical mission trips for students and professionals

If you have completed your second year of medical or nursing school, or if you are a qualified healthcare professional, you are are eligible to join IVHQ in these destinations:

• India (Delhi and Kerala)

You can expect to support a range of tasks across diverse healthcare settings in these destinations. This may include providing basic patient care, taking vitals, dressing wounds, triage nursing, and helping to prepare medical equipment. There are also opportunities to observe local doctors and nurses in operating rooms, as well as shadow their daily routines.

Our IVHQ Volunteer Travel Specialists will offer guidance to help determine which destination would be best suited to your interests and experience, as some of our medical volunteer programs offer opportunities specific to certain skills and medical specialties. We are committed to aligning your qualifications and interests with the needs of the local community. Please contact us for more information.

See all medical programs

Nurse mission trips for pre-nursing students and registered nurses

Whether you’re a fully qualified nurse or a pre-nursing student, IVHQ provides affordable nursing mission trips that accommodate varying levels of experience. Below are our top rated medical mission trips for nurses:

Discover nursing programs

IVHQ runs medical volunteer programs year-round, and you can choose from either long-term or short-term medical mission trips, ranging from 1 week to 24 weeks.

Best nursing and medical mission trips for groups

If you are traveling with a group of medical students or colleagues and would like to participate on a 1-week medical mission or nurse mission trip, you can volunteer abroad as a group on a Medical Campaign in the following locations:

• Peru - Cusco and Lima

Explore group opportunities

As a medical volunteer abroad on a mission trip, you’ll be immersed in a new culture and develop a global perspective of medicine while assisting communities with limited access to healthcare resources. By working closely with medical professionals in your host community, you will gain invaluable clinical experience, a deeper understanding of how foreign healthcare systems function and the everyday challenges that they have to overcome.

Best Medical Mission Trips For 2024 & 2025

As the world’s leading provider of affordable medical volunteer programs and mission trips, IVHQ makes it easy to customize a program to match your qualifications and travel plans. Discover these top program recommendations from IVHQ’s team of Medical Mission Specialists.

Tanzania Medical Mission Volunteer Program

• Required qualifications: Students who have complete at least 3 years at medical/nursing school, qualified doctors, nurses, CNAs, EMTs, paramedics and public health workers
• Placement settings: Volunteers are based in variety of local Clinics and small Hospitals
• Program duration: Volunteer for 1 to 24 weeks, programs start on the 1st and 15th of each month
• Program fees: Start from US$320. Fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support

In many communities in Tanzania, healthcare is not easily accessible or affordable. This Medical volunteer project aims to change that by placing volunteers in medical clinics that serve vulnerable people. Medical volunteers in Tanzania are greatly received, especially those who come with initiative, enthusiasm and readiness to work in very basic facilities with limited resources available. Volunteers work in a variety of settings, including medical clinics and hospitals, with the location depending on the volunteers previous experience and training. To comply with the Tanzania Healthcare System, volunteers will shadow local doctors and assist in performing basic patient care, and it’s important to note that this project focuses more on observation, than getting involved in operations or independent medical tasks.

Experiencing medicine in a third world hospital was amazing and eye opening. The doctors were extremely welcoming and grateful. Exploring Arusha and Moshi with the other volunteers and seeing the African culture first hand were some of my favorite moments. Amy Freeman (IVHQ Volunteer in Tanzania)

Guatemala Medical Mission Volunteer Program

• Required qualifications: Volunteers at all levels of medical training and experience are welcome, including medical/nursing students, pre med nursing/medical students, qualified doctors, nurses, CNAs, EMTs, paramedics and public health workers
• Placement settings: Volunteers are based in local clinics, hospitals and elderly homes
• Program duration: Volunteer for 1 to 24 weeks, programs start every Monday
• Program fees: From US$405 for 1 week. Fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support

The healthcare system in Guatemala is generally underfunded and understaffed, especially outside of the major cities. Volunteers on the Medical project in Guatemala can help provide access to medical resources while gaining hands-on experience working with local doctors and nurses in local clinics. Work is available for volunteers of all experience levels, but assigned tasks and the level of independence a volunteer will have depends on their qualifications and experience, as well as Spanish language skills.

The project was a perfect integration of basic sciences and clinical medicine, and it also allowed for the group to see preventative and diagnostic medicine. It was exactly what we were looking for as 1st/2nd year medical students. The fact that we got to see a rural village as well as the schools was a great asset to this trip. It really allowed the group to contrast what underserved areas are really like when outside of the U.S. The hands-on experiences that we were able to participate in are priceless and will be held dear to everyone on the trip. Madison Bangert (IVHQ Volunteer in Guatemala)

Peru Medical Mission Volunteer Program

• Required qualifications: All levels of medical or nursing study are welcome, including medical/nursing students, qualified doctors, nurses and CNAs with an intermediate level of Spanish
• Placement settings: A mobile “clini-bus”
• Program duration: Volunteer for 1 to 24 weeks, programs start on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month
• Program fees: From US$220 for 1 week which includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support

Medical and nursing students who speak at least intermediate Spanish can help a mobile clinic provide healthcare access to underprivileged areas of Lima, while working alongside Peruvian healthcare professionals. Depending on your level of experience and Spanish skill level, medical volunteers may provide assistance with initial assessments, essential procedures like vaccinations and wound care, triage or helping with the operational set up each day.

Everything was above and beyond what I had hoped for. The house had everything we needed, and the food was amazing. IVHQ is the best. I had the most fulfilling trip, and am already planning on returning next summer. Thanks so much for making volunteering affordable and fun. Olivia Gissing (IVHQ Volunteer in Lima, Peru)

Nepal Medical Mission Volunteer Program

• Required qualifications: Volunteers who are in at least their third year of medical or nursing school are welcome, as well as qualified doctors, nurses and paramedics
• Placement settings: Hospitals or medical schools
• Program duration: Volunteer for 2 to 12 weeks, programs start on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month
• Program fees: From $500 for 2 weeks. Fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support

Medical volunteers in Nepal are based in either Kathmandu, Chitwan or Pokhara. You’ll shadow qualified physicians and nurses and familiarize yourself with procedures in the operating surgery ward, provide support in the physical therapy and burns units, learn about immunizations and family planning, and provide support to new mothers. Qualified nurses and medical professionals can request to work in their area of expertise, including ICU, radiology, oncology, emergency, surgery, burns unit, gynecology, pediatrics and pharmacy. Please note that local regulations prevent volunteers from treating patients without the supervision of local professionals so most volunteer work will be observational in nature.

I would recommend this program to anybody. As a recent medical graduate, I found that I was able to give and take as much as I could from the program. The two week rural placement gave me experience and an opportunity to observe diseases, management strategies, and patient interaction. I was also able to help diagnose and treat certain conditions which may have otherwise been missed or misdiagnosed.This is an experience I will never forget. Sumudu Welikumbura (IVHQ Volunteer in Nepal)

India Medical Mission Volunteer Program

• Required ualifications: Pre-medical, nursing and medical students, qualified medical professionals and others working in closely related medical fields are welcome on this program
• Placement settings: In Delhi, volunteers work in hospitals and mobile clinics
• Program fees: From $250 which includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support

As a volunteer in Delhi, you’ll help provide medical care to those in need and gain first-hand insight into India’s medical systems. Volunteers in India work in hospitals and clinics in Delhi, shadowing experienced physicians who are enthusiastic about exchanging their knowledge and experience. Here, volunteers assist with routine medical tasks, such as taking vitals, providing advice regarding health, nutrition and sanitation during routine check-ups, or treating minor injuries and wounds. The amount of hands-on volunteer work you are able to do will depend on your level of training and experience, as well as the length of your stay. Longer-term volunteers (staying 3 months or more) will have more scope to assist with hands-on tasks, and qualified professionals may request to work in their area of expertise.

It was such a good experience! On the health project, we were given a chance to see many sides of the Indian healthcare system and all of our questions were answered. I was so impressed with each placement and learned so much. It was very good that as a brand new nurse with so little clinical experience, I was given a chance to learn so much. Katelyn Rowland (IVHQ Volunteer in Delhi, India)

Vietnam Medical Mission Volunteer Program

• Required qualifications: Volunteers who are studying medicine or nursing at any level, including Pre-medical/nursing students, qualified doctors, nurses, CNAs and EMTs
• Placement settings: Volunteers are based in a hospital in Ho Chi Minh City
• Program duration: Volunteer for 2 to 24 weeks, programs start every Monday
• Program fees: From $485 for two weeks. Fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support

Both students and skilled medical professionals have the opportunity to experience a new working environment and the Vietnamese culture, while developing their global medical perspective as medical volunteer in Vietnam . . Volunteers provide support to an orthopedic and rehabilitation hospital, working alongside local doctors and nurses in the areas of physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. Here, volunteers work with children and adults who suffer from cerebral palsy, down syndrome, congenital motor system deformity and other disabilities. Qualified volunteers may join this project but should not expect to be able to treat patients as local regulations prevent volunteers from providing unsupervised hands-on care to patients.

The medical placement was the perfect combination of challenging, rewarding and eye-opening. I continue to be inspired by all the hard-working staff and medical team at the hospital, who do so much but with so little. Amazing! Phuong Dinh (IVHQ Volunteer in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam)

Want to learn more about IVHQ’s full range of Medical and Healthcare volunteer abroad projects? Discover all your options for a medical mission trip .

• Browse our medical mission opportunities and choose a date, destination and medical volunteer program you’d like to join.
• Complete with the details of your chosen medical volunteer program and dates, as well as details of your qualifications, skills and experience in the medical field. You will then receive an email from IVHQ to confirm that we have received your application. Within 48 hours (2 working days), you will receive an email from your IVHQ Program Manager acknowledging your application and confirming the destination, project and dates of your volunteer program. In this email, you will receive instructions on how to pay the Registration Fee in order to reserve your place to volunteer with IVHQ.
• Log to pay your Registration Fee. As soon as your Registration Fee has been received by IVHQ, you will be provided with all the information and support you need to prepare for your upcoming medical mission trip. Your IVHQ Program Manager will be your point of contact throughout your preparations up until you finish your volunteer program.
• Contact the IVHQ Groups Team if you are looking to volunteer abroad as a group, so we can customize a medical mission trip for you.

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Who we are~ International Nurse Humanitarians

Our Background

Established in 2017, Nurses with Purpose is a registered 501(c)3 volunteer organization that focuses & promotes preventative healthcare outreach during medical missions abroad. Our program is the first of its kind to be nurse focused, nurse driven and nurse created. With care, compassion, skill and expert knowledge, nurses are the hands &

Established in 2017, Nurses with Purpose is a registered 501(c)3 volunteer organization that focuses & promotes preventative healthcare outreach during medical missions abroad. Our program is the first of its kind to be nurse focused, nurse driven and nurse created. With care, compassion, skill and expert knowledge, nurses are the hands & feet of our organization. Nurses with Purpose encourages medical professionals to make volunteering a necessary component in their career. By doing so allows a refreshed outlook on one's initial love for the nursing field through meaningful experiences of humanitarian services. 

  Nurses with Purpose aims to provide continual preventative and primary healthcare to underserved communities. We partner with local organizations that are aligned with our mission and vision. We aim for long term partnerships were we aim for measurable outcomes in continuity of care. We also aspire to have a strong network of volunteers

  Nurses with Purpose aims to provide continual preventative and primary healthcare to underserved communities. We partner with local organizations that are aligned with our mission and vision. We aim for long term partnerships were we aim for measurable outcomes in continuity of care. We also aspire to have a strong network of volunteers in all specialties of nursing.  Partnering with individuals and groups who share a common vision, belief, and willingness to take action towards a common goal, that leads to success. Geographically, we are always looking to expand our horizons wherever medical outreach is necessary but conducting in such a way that it improves conditions versus crippling an already fragile system. We believe that outreach is the key to hope and vitality of life.  

Our Mission

Our mission is to create sustainable solutions along with our partners through long term commitment. We assess the need and work towards the development of improving communities through the realistic outcomes. Through various events that focuses on preventative healthcare, addressing the needs of living environments and conditions, and ou

Our mission is to create sustainable solutions along with our partners through long term commitment. We assess the need and work towards the development of improving communities through the realistic outcomes. Through various events that focuses on preventative healthcare, addressing the needs of living environments and conditions, and our children's enrichment programs, it is essential that we create overall improvements for generations to come.

 We do not impose our personal ideals or beliefs. Rather, we serve as a  vessel for the improvement of existing processes our partners have established.  

 Mission Statement:

To enrich the lives of others, 

as we enrich the lives of ourselves through meaningful experiences created through the power of giving back

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What We Do~ Medical Mission Outreach

Assessments, consultation, home visits, youth programs, on-going enrichment programs, refresher courses, feeding schemes, nurse focused | nurse driven | nurse created, transcending lives~ making impact.

We believe in creating sustainability serving in areas with limited to no access of healthcare on a continual basis. During mission season, our teams provide free healthcare every 2 weeks which creates continuity of care. This is the key to hope and vitality of life!

Nurses volunteer in various settings: 

• Local Clinics 
• Pop up Clinics (Daily Travel to remote areas to provide care)
• Rural Settlements/Villages/Shanties
• Primary schools 

Projects Include but not limited to:

• Community outreach, screenings and assessments
• Primary Health Care at a comprehensive healthcare facility
• Patient Education and Interaction 
• Restoration and Revitalization Projects 
• Mentorship to youth, local staff, and local nursing students 

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How Nurses Can Get Involved With Medical Mission Trips

Samaritan’s purse international mission, remote area medical - ram usa, project hope.

By Kathleen Colduvell RN, BSN, BA, CBC

Recent natural disasters such as Hurricanes Irma and Maria crushing Puerto Rico and Hurricane Harvey devastating Texas there has been an overwhelming need for volunteer registered nurses.

Despite the need at home for volunteers, there has been an increasing need abroad for nurses to volunteer on medical mission trips. 

More than 1.3 billion people across the world lack access to basic healthcare services let alone more complex services such as surgery or advance obstetric care. Developing countries need advance medical assistance and have the largest number of medical missions available for nurses to volunteer. 

Medical missions are trips in which trained medical professionals travel to foreign countries with a specific medical purpose for a designated period of time. This can vary in duration from one week to years depending on the organization.

Needs of the organization and the medical objective of the mission will dictate who is able to travel on missions. These individuals may include:

• registered nurses
• speech therapist
• physical therapists

Medical missions were originally developed by religious organizations and would provide basic healthcare while also improving the community. A large number of organizations are still embedded in their religious beginnings; however, most will gladly allow anyone to volunteer.

Mission trips are generally organized to developing nations that have a dire need for basic healthcare services. These include countries in Africa, South America, and Central America.

Most nurses interested in volunteering for medical missions will determine locations of interest and then find organizations that have current mission trips to those areas.

Interestingly, some hospitals are starting to organize their own mission trips. This past fall, the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia organized a surgical medical mission to Guatemala to perform life-changing surgeries on dozens of children. Missions organized by healthcare organizations are strictly for employees and do not require vacation time to participate. 

Healthcare systems are not required to give employees time off for volunteer missions, but most do have policies regarding this. It’s important to speak to your supervisor before signing up for a mission.

Some hospitals will allow for one non-paid week every other year while others will offer paid vacation with the proper documentation. Due to the fact missions trips are often planned months in advance, nurses are encouraged to speak to their managers to ensure time off is guaranteed.

Nurses are also able to use their own PTO time in order to volunteer abroad. 

With an increasing number of organizations available it can be daunting and overwhelming to interesting nurses. Here’s a short list of some reputable organizations that are ready for adventurous and willing volunteers!

A 501(c)(3) Christian organization offers a variety of missions ranging from healthcare, clean water initiative, feeding projects, construction projects and sanitation. Nurses are required to submit an online application and letters of recommendation from current and former colleagues. 

While this organization is rooted in Christian faith, it has a strong reputation in the volunteer community. It welcomes individuals of all religious affiliations. Trip locations vary but have included Iraq, Vietnam, Kenya, and Tanzania. Costs also vary based on the length, ranging 2 to 4 weeks, of the trip but can range from $500-$2500. 

Founded by Stan Brock in 1985, RAM operates clinics in impoverished, isolated, and underserved areas of the United States. The mission of the organization is to “enhance quality of life through the delivery of competent and compassionate health care.”

While the focus of RAM is to serve the disenfranchised on mainland USA, it currently is operating five mobile clinics in Puerto Rico to assist in hurricane recovery. 

Clinics are currently being offered in parts of Virginia, Ohio, and Tennessee. Registered nurses are limited to volunteering in the triage area of the clinic but there are countless opportunities available for other trained medical professionals. A small nominal fee is required for volunteers as well as arranging their own transportation to the site of the clinic. 

A non-denominational humanitarian organization focuses entirely on the needs Central America. Trips typically last 7-10 days and are comprised of medical and non-medical volunteers.

These trips tend to be more rustic in accommodations such as back-packer tents and cots. Living conditions are important to consider when determining which mission organization is best suited for you. Trips are typically $1500. 

Project HOPE currently has medical projects focusing on infectious disease, chronic disease, health policy, disasters and health crisis, and maternal/neonatal/child health.

Current needs are for Spanish speaking nurses to assist in Puerto Rico but other openings are available in China, Haiti, Kosovo, and the Dominican Republic. Costs are based strictly on the length of time and location. Volunteer opportunities are sparse for nurses and often fill up very quickly. 

This short list is only a small sampling of organizations that conduct medical missions to help serve those in need. Missions range in length of time and price but there are ones that could potentially fit everyone’s needs.

Make sure to ask the appropriate questions and research all aspects of the mission. There are rarely hidden costs but if cost is a deciding factor - local humanitarian missions might be more feasible than international ones. Nurses are born helpers and medical missions are another way to better the healthcare world. 

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International Medical Relief provides sustainable capacity building and direct relief efforts. On our medical mission trips, everyone plays a vital role in saving and changing lives. Our international medical corps of volunteers provides comprehensive large and small scale clinics offering life-saving interventions and high impact training to vulnerable communities around the globe. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 5.3 million children die of preventable diseases each year that could be saved through access to focused, scaleable education, treatment, and diagnoses. With careful integration of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, our work creates a blueprint for communities to reach their greatest level of success. We invite you to be the good you wish to see in the world.

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Welcome to ER Abroad, where compassion meets global impact! We are delighted to have you visit our virtual space dedicated to transformative healthcare initiatives. Whether you are a healthcare professional, a prospective volunteer, a donor, or simply someone curious about our mission, we extend a warm greeting and an invitation to explore the "Virtual Hub" of ER Abroad.

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Be the change ...

A medical mission trip is a profound experience, showcasing the transformative power of compassion, forging connections, and leaving a lasting impact on both recipients and volunteers alike.

Upcoming Trips By Date

Nursing and medical mission trips.

Participants:  Nursing trip for students, faculty and friends of the Vincennes University College of Nursing who are fully vaccinated including a booster

Leader:   M. Halter, J. Tiek

Description:  Multi-faceted medical trip to conduct  clinics in different communities for those with limited access to basic care.

Trip fees include food, lodging, purified water, in-country transportation, translators, full-time FFP staff, security, pre-trip planning, basic medicine and post-trip follow-up. Does not include airfare, personal expenses, special excursions or other non-standard items. 

Sign Up  >

Participants:  School-led nursing trip for students and faculty who are fully vaccinated including a booster

Leader:   A. Goia

Description:  Multi-faceted medical trip to conduct clinics in different communities for those with limited access to basic care.

Leader:   E. Downes, S Hydes

Participants: School-led trip for students who are fully vaccinated including a booster

Leader:   G. Nicoletti

Description: Multi-faceted trip to San Joaquin including a medical clinic, house to house medical care, a small construction project, Sunday school and activities for children.

Trip fees include food, lodging, purified water, in-country transportation, translators, full-time FFP staff, security, pre-trip planning, construction materials, basic medicine and post-trip follow-up. Does not include airfare, personal expenses, special excursions or other non-standard items. 

Participants: Trip for students and faculty of NYIT who are fully vaccinated including a booster

Leader:   M. Gindi and C. Abraham

Description:  Multi-faceted medical trip to Santo Domingo area. We will conduct clinics in different communities for those with limited access to basic care.

Trip fees include food, lodging, purified water, in-country transportation, translators, full-time FFP staff, security, pre-trip planning, basic medicines, patient registration, doctors and post-trip follow-up. Does not include airfare, personal expenses, special excursions or other non-standard items.  

Leader:   TBD

Participants: Open to physicians, nurses and physical therapists welcome, both licensed and trainees and their families who are fully vaccinated including a booster

Description: Medical trip to the Dominican Republic area.  We will conduct 4 clinics in different communities for those with limited access to basic care.

Cost: $1,250 plus airfare

Leader:   D. McDonald

Includes food, lodging, purified water, in-country transportation, translators, full-time FFP staff, security, pre-trip planning, basic medicines and post-trip follow-up.

Does not include airfare, personal expenses, medical equipment, special excursions or other non-standard items. 

Sign Up >

We welcome churches, organizations and individuals to bring teams!

Please contact [email protected] today to schedule your 2023 trip!

Christian Mission Trips

Participants: Church-led trip for their members and friends who are fully vaccinated including a booster

Leader:   H. Hughes

Description: Multi-faceted trip to El Batey including worship. VBS, construction and more.

Includes food, lodging, purified water, in-country transportation, translators, full-time FFP staff, security, pre-trip planning, construction materials and post-trip follow-up. Does not include airfare, personal expenses, special excursions or other non-standard items. 

Leader:   J. Edwards

Participants: Open to individuals, families and groups who want to serve in the name of Jesus Christ with our Kenyan brothers and sisters who are fully vaccinated including a booster

Description: Multi-faceted  trip to Mathare North, Nairobi, Kenya:

• Run a medical camp 3 days to provide free care and medicines for about 1000 people in the slum ( We need medical and non-medical people to reach this goal)
• Attend church, evening devotions and provide a Bible school lesson to kids
• Help build bathrooms for the church
• Visit patients in their homes with volunteer caregivers
• Tour an animal park and meditate in a prayer garden
• Stay at a beautiful retreat center and ride in a well-maintained bus with an expert driver

Join an optional safari at the end of the trip!

Leader:   K. Culver

Cost:  $2,150 plus airfare

Includes food, lodging, purified water, in-country transportation, pre-trip planning, construction materials, medical supplies and post-trip follow-up.

Does not include airfare, personal expenses, special excursions, safari or other non-standard items. 

Participants: Open to individuals, families and groups who want to serve in the name of Jesus Christ with our Dominican brothers and sisters who are fully vaccinated including a booster

Description: Multi-faceted trip to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic with construction, medical care, Bible school, worship, educational activities, beach and tour of the Colonial City

Cost: $1.250 plus airfare

Includes food, lodging, purified water, in-country transportation, translators, full-time FFP staff, security, pre-trip planning, construction materials and post-trip follow-up.

Does not include airfare, personal expenses, special excursions or other non-standard items. 

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Medical mission trips are your perfect chance to support a medical project abroad when you don't have too much time on your hands ... read more

Medical mission trips are your perfect chance to support a medical project abroad when you don't have too much time on your hands. Medical mission trips take place at hospitals , clinics or doctor's offices in developing countries. It's ideal for students who want to gain international work experience on a short-term medical mission trip.

Medical mission trips are perfect for pre-meds, dental professionals , med students, and healthcare volunteers with any level of experience. Our short-term medical internships abroad include a diverse mix of pre-meds, doctors, nurses , medical students, midwives and volunteers with limited medical background.

Medical Shadowing in Hospitals

Shadow doctors & nurses in Greek hospitals for up to 40 hours per week. Rotate between different departments, clinics & surgeries. 🩺 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="0" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sri Lanka Mental Health Volunteers

Using a combination of lectures, meditations, consultations and community projects, further your awareness of mental health in a new culture. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="1" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Assistant for Medical Work

Join our health projects, gain insight into healthcare challenges in developing nations, and make a meaningful impact! 🩺 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="2" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sri Lanka Medical Volunteers

Gain invaluable medical experience, an opportunity not to be missed in this gorgeous part of the world by those pursuing a career in medicine. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="3" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Emergency Department Assistant

Emergency department placement in working with a busy team looking after major and minor injuries and with severely ill or acutely unwell patients. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="4" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Psychology Internship

Shadowing & practical involvement internship in Greece for up to 40 hours per week landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="5" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Medical Student Internship

Student medical placements in Emergency Medical, Surgical, Dentistry, Psychology and more. Please enquire for specific departments. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="6" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Midwife Hospital Assistant

We need midwifery assistants to work in Arusha with mother and babies, helping to deliver newborns & support pregnant women! Students & Trained Professionals welcome! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="7" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Support Local Healthcare

As a volunteer you'll support us at an assisted living facility for elderly adults or at a school for disabled children. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="8" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

India Medical Volunteers

Gain practical experience and insight on the medical program in India, whilst bringing support to a large population and under resourced facilities. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="9" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Ecuador Medical Volunteers

As a medical student, witness a healthcare system unlike your own. A new insight into traditional beliefs will leave you amazed and cultured. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="10" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Ghana Mental Health Volunteers

This amazing opportunity gives you an insight into how psychiatric services operate in Ghana today. Help this important sector to reach modern standards. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="11" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Local Medical Clinic Supporter

Shadow local medical professionals, helping to provide medical check-ups, blood pressure and other vital signs, administration, and prepare materials and equipment. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="12" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Obstetrics, Maternity & Gynaecology

Join local obstetrics and gynaecology physicians to help provide care and treatment to women with C-sections and birth complications. STUDENTS & PROFESSIONALS welcome! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="13" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Medical Healthcare Work

This is great practical experience for medical students to gain first hand knowledge of international healthcare and to shadow local doctors and nurses. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="14" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Medical Outreach

This program involves visiting areas without access to healthcare to treat URIs, UTIs, STIs, GI & skin infections, wounds, plus HIV and malaria testing and treatment. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="15" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Medicine and Healthcare Observation & Experience

Work side by side with medical staff at local clinics and be involved with day to day healthcare.This opportunity will give you an insight into the running of a clinic. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="16" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Physiotherapy Hospital Assistant

Join a team of local physiotherapist as they aim to rehabilitate patients in burns, trauma, orthopaedics and paediatrics departments. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="17" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Medical Health Care

You will be involved in the day-to-day running of hospitals and clinics directly assisting the doctors and nurses.This project is open to anyone who wants to help landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="18" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Mental Health and Psychology Internship

Mental health issues often come last on the list of priorities for policy makers and hence mental illnesses receive very little attention from the government. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="19" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Best Medical Mission Trips Abroad

If you’re short on time but keen to volunteer, we have just the thing for you. Many of us dream of making a difference in the world but are simultaneously working on careers or building a family that also require our attention. What if we told you that you can do it all? There’s no need to quit your job or do anything drastic but you can still make a meaningful difference. Here at Volunteer World, we understand that there is a necessity for short-term volunteer projects. Experience all the benefits of volunteering without any of the sacrifices and volunteer for one of the medical mission trips on the website.

At Volunteer World, we believe that volunteering should be accessible to everyone. There are countless volunteer organizations out there and they are all in need of enthusiastic volunteers who are willing to lend a hand to their projects. There’s no need to give up everything to be part of something meaningful. Volunteering is now for everyone willing to help out and spare a few days of their time. Continue reading to learn more about medical missions and how you can help.

🩺 What is a Medical Mission Trip?

Medical missions are trips in which medical professionals or students travel abroad for a specified period of time for a specific medical purpose. While medical volunteering is when someone decides to dedicate time to a project that is focused on improving the circumstances of a community or the environment, medical mission opportunities can be a bit different. Volunteer organizations generally put in a lot of work to train volunteers. This is why some projects require volunteers to stay for at least a few weeks. There’s a shift going on in the volunteer landscape with projects welcoming volunteers for shorter periods. These are also known as short-term medical mission trips.

Students, people on a sabbatical or retirees may be able to dedicate themselves to a project for longer periods but there’s a large group of the population for who this simply isn’t an option. Medical relief missions are short-term volunteer programs that can be done for 1-4 weeks. Even if it is for that short amount of time, you can help and support doctors and do amazing things. Of course longer options are available, however, these short-term missions allow everyone to volunteer in for example clinics and experience the incredible benefits of volunteering while not having to stay for a long time period.

🏥 What are Pros and Cons of Medical Mission Trips?

If you’re determined to make a difference during your next holiday, why not volunteer for an international medical trip? Combine the freedom to travel while taking the time to do something for the community of your holiday destination. With medical mission projects entering the picture, being short on time is no longer an excuse for not volunteering. Countless projects and programs are waiting for your help, for example, medical mission trips for nurses or nursing students . Of course, you can also work with doctors. Before you plan you look at the medical mission work opportunities, let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of those for professionals, students and nurses:

• Use medical mission work opportunities to volunteer and contribute for a limited period.

• This is a great opportunity to try out different volunteer projects and programs abroad while gaining valuable experience in your profession.

• You will learn a lot about the region you volunteer in but also about volunteering.
• The chance to connect with the local community while getting hands-on and helping with the healthcare system.
• Participants will see a different side of their travel destination that you will not see as a simple tourist.

• You will meet other like-minded individuals that share the same ideals as you do.

• It’s always important to do your due diligence with regards to the organization to know where the funds are invested in. You cannot start by going somewhere and begin nursing people back to health in clinics without any prior knowledge. It is always advisable to do some research to make sure the local organization is offering a sustainable service to the community and using the funds they are getting properly.
• The time spent on the program is limited which may not allow you to connect as profoundly with your volunteer organization.
• When working with children it can be hard on them when volunteers come and go.

🤷🏽‍♀️ Why choose a Medical Mission Trip?

If you’re eager to volunteer but have a family, a job or other responsibilities that you simply can’t leave behind for long, a medical mission trip is exactly what you’re looking for. You will gain experience in volunteering, contribute to a meaningful cause and learn a great deal about the challenges others are facing daily.

Why Medical Mission Trips are making a difference? It’s fair to say that organizations prefer volunteers to dedicate themselves for longer periods of time for a program. The longer you stay, the more tasks and responsibilities you will have. This doesn’t mean that a shorter stay is meaningless or less meaningful in any way. The most important thing that will happen during your stay abroad is the cultural interchange and social contact between the volunteer and the locals. Gaining awareness about your volunteer destination will undoubtedly change the way you view the world afterward. Small changes do go a long way.

Is volunteering in developing countries condescending? There are claims that if you volunteer overseas that you’re portraying a message that these communities are unable to solve problems on their own. This mainly refers to programs that aren’t addressing the root problem and are exploiting both the community and the volunteers for personal gains. The goal should always be to empower local communities and give them the support they need to build a better future. Reputable organizations understand the needs of the community and are dedicated to helping the community progress. As doctors and nurses in the field of medicine, you will do exactly that in international clinics and hospitals! Medical mission trips for nursing students are perfect to learn and give practical support. You can leave an imprint as strong as the professionals do!

Although the time of your international volunteer trip may be short, that doesn’t mean your efforts are not of help. As, for example, a volunteer on one of the medical mission trips for college students or nursing students, you will gain a deeper understanding of what is going on in the part of the world your program is in. You will carry this awareness with you throughout your life and undoubtedly share it with others after your experiences while working with local doctors and nursing people in need back to health. All medical mission work opportunities will have an impact.

Short-term medical programs are an excellent opportunity to find out whether volunteering for longer periods is suitable for you.

👨🏽‍⚕️ What kind of Medical Mission Trips are there?

The point of a medical mission trip abroad is to gain experience during a short time period and contribute to one of the projects, by supporting the people and community in regards to healthcare, but also even further. Medical professionals of all sorts, such as dentists , pharmacists, midwives, surgeons, paramedics, pediatricians, nurses are desperately needed. As professionals in the field of medicine, you should consider an international medical mission program! Short-term medical missions for nurses are also always available as they are in dire need of assistance. Furthermore, trips for college students are ideal to help out and at the same time gain valuable experience for your future career.

There are so many possibilities available that it will come down to where you want to go and what skills you have to offer. Some medical trips are suited for specialists, such as dental mission trips . Here are some tasks you will help with if you join a general medical program:

• Observing procedures
• Shadowing daily rounds in clinics and hospitals
• Nursing patients back to health
• Changing bandages and dressing wounds
• Monitoring recovery
• Emergency Room support
• Applying first aid


As you can see, there are countless options. It’s a matter of preference and skills that will determine where you will do and what you will do on your programs. Brief medical mission trips for nursing students will, of course, have differences in comparison to short-term medical missions for nurses or doctors.

💡 How do I choose the best Medical Mission Trip for me?

The most important aspect of choosing a great medical mission trip program is that you do enough research on the different volunteer organizations and try to answer the following questions:

• What does the organization stand for?
• What is their objective and how are they trying to achieve it?
• How are the funds they receive spent?
• How do you think you will contribute?

Read up on the organization, read reviews and ask previous volunteers about their experience with the organization. There are some great agencies and non-profit organizations that are doing very responsible work.

Be careful when you choose to volunteer with children. Do your due diligence before signing up. There are organizations however that are doing more harm than good. It’s important to take into account that we have attempted to screen these organizations but in the end, you make the final call. Choose wisely and you will be in for an incredible experience while supporting a meaningful cause.

What are the best places for Medical Mission Trips?

Embark on a volunteer trip and the world is just a click away. Volunteer organizations are aware of the limited time most people have on their hands and are welcoming short-term volunteers. Take this opportunity to explore the world and give back to less fortunate communities, while also linking it to your university studies and gaining credits if you are a college student. Medical mission trips for college students or nursing students are a great way to gain practical experience for a future profession.

Medical mission opportunities can generally be found in developing countries that do not have good or basic healthcare services. This includes places such as:

Countries from all over the world, such as Ghana , Tanzania , Peru , India , Guatemala , Nepal , Sri Lanka or South Africa all need your help. Work in clinics, with doctors in their offices or hospitals and help out where help is needed! Do not hesitate, find a program and destination that suit your taste, volunteer for your first medical mission trip abroad and start nursing people back to good health.

Unlimited volunteer opportunities are awaiting your support.

🎁 Top 5 benefits of a Medical Mission Trip Program

It’s hard to name drawbacks when talking about volunteering abroad. It’s almost always associated with feelings of positivity. Both travel and volunteering allow people to get out of their usual environment and open up to new experiences. Join one of the medical relief missions and help improve the healthcare system and community in your destination place!

Let’s take a look at some benefits volunteering for a medical mission trip may have in store for you:

Valuable Learning Opportunities

Meet new people, new experiences, health improvements, 👩🏽‍⚕️ who can volunteer on a medical mission trip.

In case you are not sure whether you would make a great volunteer on a medical mission trip, we have listed some characteristics that are great to have as a hospital volunteer or as a general medical volunteer abroad:

• Communication skills
• Emotional stability
• Flexibility
• Attention to detail
• Interpersonal skills
• Physical endurance
• Problem-solving skills
• Quick response to emergency situations
• Respect for people of all cultures

For being a good candidate in a medical mission trip, it may not be necessary to tick all the boxes. However, it is a good guideline to help you decide on taking part.

There will be a lot of opportunities to learn from this experience, yet you have to bear in mind that it will not always be easy. As a volunteer in the medical sector, you will witness things that your education might not have prepared you for.

📣 What Language Skills are Required for Medical Mission Trips?

English is the main language on all medical projects so it is important that volunteers have a good understanding of English. This is essential to communicate with the staff at the project center and other volunteers. For projects in South America, it would be great if you gain a basic knowledge of Spanish before going. Knowing some Spanish words will kickstart your medical mission trip volunteer adventure.

🚀 How do I Start a Medical Mission Trip?

You are ready to go but you are not quite sure where to start? First of all, have a look at the different programs across the globe, and pick a few that have caught your attention.

Once you have done that, let us take a look at the first 3 steps which will send you on your way to a medical mission trip abroad:

• Check whether there is a match between you and the projects by looking at their requirements.
• Take a look at the location of the project and decide whether it would be exciting to go to.
• Get in touch with the organization and see whether your expectations and schedules match up.

Once this is sorted, let us take a look at these practical steps:

Insurance (health and travel)

We recommend getting both, health and travel insurance. In fact, this is a requirement for all volunteer programs abroad. Get in touch with your program contact person to find out if an insurance plan is already in place for volunteers.

Visa, Passport, and Documentation

Once you know your destination, take the following 3 steps before setting off on your life-changing adventure!

• Look into the visa requirements for the country you will volunteer in.
• Make sure you have a valid passport and consider the requirements of the host country.
• Make sure you prepare the correct documents to fulfill the visa application.

That’s it! You are ready for your medical mission trip abroad! Get ready for a life-changing experience. You will learn a lot about the medical world, get to know a completely new culture and a great deal more about yourself! Check out the different programs on our page and get started!

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Exploring the many ways to get involved in short-term missions.

An Introduction to Short Term Medical Missions

There are hundreds of opportunities for you to serve in short term missions, especially as a healthcare professional.  Our goal is to help you find the best fit and the best opportunity for your skills and interests.  In order to do this, we created the largest directory of healthcare missions organizations in the world to feature their opportunities and how they engage the world.  Explore the opportunities, organizations, and resources that will help you find that perfect match.

Short Term Trip List

Explore the list of short term trips below - automatically aggregated from our member organizations.  

Interested in posting your organization's short term trips on our list?   Learn how for free!

Finding Short Term Trips on MedicalMissions.com

Part of the challenge in finding a short term trip is finding the organization you feel best fits your personal interests and skills.  Thankfully we have built a robust directory of these organizations to help you find that best connection.  Here are a few quick tips:

• Search by Healthcare Specialty - there are over 70 healthcare fields to search from in the directory.  Start here by searching by your professional field.
• Search by Global Health Issues - Are you interested in helping with a specific global health issue?  Search over 30 global health issues.
• Geography - search by the countries of the world that interest you.
• Search by Keyword - is there something specific you are looking for?  

We're convinced you will find an organization that matches your interest.  Once you have, contact them to learn more.

Short Term Trip Resources

Explore some of these resources about short term missions from some of the world's leading experts.

Short Term Teams & Drug Distribution by  Arnold Gorske

Best Practices for Facilitating Short Term Trips

by  Micah Pritchard

Helping Without Hurting by Greg Seager

Short Term Medical Teams with Long Term Impact Part I and Part II by  Greg Seager

Merging First World Quality with Third World Resources by  Stephen Merry

How Short-Term Missions can Make Long-Term Impact Anonymous

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NAHN Houston Has Taken flight Yet Again!

2023 puerto rico nursing medical mission is on the move.

The moment we all have been waiting and planning for all year is here! We are absolutely thrilled to announce the takeoff of our 2023 PR Nursing Medical Mission Trip! The heart of our organization lies in making a positive impact on underserved Hispanic communities, and we couldn't be more excited about this opportunity! Our dedicated team of nurses and healthcare professionals have passionately prepared for another life-changing journey.

Mission Prep Date 11/16

Mission Trip Dates: 12/4-12/8 Location: Puerto Rico- We are going to the islands of Vieques, and Culebra, and the towns of Arroyo, Villalba and Penuelas.

Stay tuned for updates, stories from the field, and a firsthand look at what the devotion and reinforcement of your pledge to the positive health outcomes of your community has led to! NAHN Houston Facebook Share your thoughts and comments with us!

See below for daily photos updates throughout our mission trip!

Get Involved

 Devoted NAHN members and passionate volunteers have always recognized the significance of addressing inequities and disparities that impact the Hispanic population. In fact, we here are experts at it, as NAHN has been in existence since 1975!  

We have been graced with such an overwhelming amount of support that what started out as something very small instead blew up into something much bigger than we ever imagined! It turned from local effects to INTERNATIONAL! 

See more about our new initiative launched this year, Nurses On The Move Inc .

Preparation Trip 11/16/2023 (Supply delivery, etc)

Preparation day 11/30/2023 (set up), honored guests at our collaborators "colegio de profesionales de enfermería de puerto rico’s annual conference", day 1 - arroyo, day 2 - vieques, day 3 - culebra, day 4 - villalba, day 5 - penuelas.

Copyright © 2023 Nurses on the Move Inc - All Rights Reserved.

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Disaster relief and medical missions.

Whenever and wherever there’s a disaster, nurses respond with heroism and skill. The skills required in the nursing process – medical and scientific expertise, a level head, and an understanding of the full range of human responses to illness – are the same skills needed in disaster relief.

NYSNA’s disaster relief work began in the days after Hurricane Sandy, when hundreds of nurses rushed into the devastation to help out. We went door-to-door in affected areas to assess medical needs, and get medical attention to people without electricity or running water.

Since then, we have deployed medical missions to the Philippines following Typhoon Haiyan; and to Florida, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands following Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria.

We have also responded to man-made disasters, offering medical expertise and humanitarian aid. 

Medical Mission Video Highlights

Update on nyrn medical missions.

Medical Mission to Mexico

Medical Mission to Thailand

Medical Mission to Chipas, Mexico

Medical Mission to Vieques, Puerto Rico

Medical mission to south africa.

Medical Mission to Dominican Republic

• Medical Mission to Brazil

NYSNA's First Solidarity and Medical Mission to India

Nysna rns report from puerto rico: february, 2018.

NYRN Visits the U.S. Virgin Islands

Nysna rns delegation to puerto rico: december, 2017.

When Sandy Hit, We United with the Community

NYNSA RNs rescued thousands of lives during and after Hurricane Sandy. At facilities including Bellevue, Coney Island, and Coler-Goldwater, we evacuated more than a thousand patients with no lights, no electricity, and no elevators. Not a single patient died, or was left behind. Nurses worked with hard-hit communities in Staten Island, Red Hook, the Rockaways and Long Island, setting up emergency field clinics, and checking in door-to-door to make sure that thousands of New Yorkers with urgent medical issues received care.

NYSNA RNs, Sandy Relief in the Rockaways

NYSNA RNs offer relief in Staten Island following Superstorm Sandy

On volunteering in the Philippines, following Typhoon Haiyan:

“It was tough. I’ve been on missions to the Philippines before, but never in a disaster situation… it humbled me to see so much suffering. I think the experience will help me be more patient. I received thank you letters that made me cry.” - Nella Pineda-Marcon, RN, Mt. Sinai Hospital

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• NYSNA Nurses latest medical mission in the Dominican Republic
• NYSNA Nurses Travel to India

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