medical mission trips 2022

• Project Search Tool
• My Wishlist
• Where can I go?
• What can I do?
• How much does it cost?
• Read our FAQs

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.

Latest blog posts

Volunteering with my sister on the IVHQ Costa Rica Program

Over the summer my older sister (age 20) and I (age 16), experienced our first trip abroad on our own on the IVHQ Turtle Conser...

How I spent my summer volunteering with turtles in Bali

If you've been asking yourself “What should I do during my summer break?”, “Where do I want to go?” and “How do I want to make ...

How to get started

Be the first to know.

Get exclusive offers, program opening updates, travel inspo, volunteer stories, scholarships and competitions… Straight to your inbox!

How It Works

• Destinations
• Project Focus

Animals & Wildlife

• Travel Guide Free

Choose a language

Choose a currency.

Volunteer World is the World's leading comparison platform for volunteer abroad programs. We guide you through a safe and easy application process. Planning your next meaningful trip with Volunteer World gives you access to:

Your Extra Layer of Security

Quality assurance.

High ethical standards & transparent social impact

Flex Option

Change your reservation at no extra costs

Refund Guarantee

We refund your fees if your project cancels your trip

Support & Mediation

We cover your back no matter what happens

Enjoy our services for dedicated volunteers!

All program fees are charged directly by your volunteer organization.

Best Destinations 2024

South africa, more countries, asian elephants, north & central america, dominican republic, united states.

• South America

Europe & Oceania

Western africa, northern africa, eastern africa, middle africa, southern africa, middle east, southern asia, eastern asia, south korea, south east asia, philippines, north america.

• Central America

El Salvador

Latin america, buenos aires, amazon rainforest, the caribbean, bosnia and herzegovina, russian federation, united kingdom, great barrier reef, french polynesia, new zealand, papua new guinea, trending topics 2024, marine conservation, marine life, teaching english, virtual volunteering, suitable for, high school, over 50s & seniors, mission trips (short-term), low budgets, internships abroad, medical training, veterinary training, biology & environment, business & marketing, environment & conservation, farming & agriculture, round trips & camps, humanitarian aid, childcare & daycare support, medical mission trips, special needs & disabilities, community services, building & construction, community development, culture & arts, human & women's rights, ngo management, wildlife conservation, animal shelter, sloth sanctuary, animal protection, great white sharks, scuba diving, coral reefs, sea turtles, whale sharks, african wildlife, african elephants.

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.

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="0" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

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="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 >

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="13" 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="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 >

Nurse Hospital Assistant

More than ever, nursing remains the thread that combines the healthcare systems and communities that keep our patients alive. Students & Trained Professionals welcome. 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!

Your donation has been added.

Your Total: $ 0.00

Serve with World Medical Mission

World Medical Mission exists to address these needs by sending Christian medical and dental professionals on short-term trips to partnering mission hospitals and clinics around the world.

“ It's the most rewarding medicine you will have practiced in a long time.” Dr. Chuck Barrier Doctor of Internal Medicine

Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and other experts in the medical field follow in the footsteps of the Great Physician as they provide patient care in a resource-limited environment, relieve overwhelmed full-time hospital staff, and help educate the next generation of national healthcare workers in the country they are serving.

“It's the most rewarding medicine you will have practiced in a long time,” said Dr. Chuck Barrier. As an internal medicine doctor, he has served on multiple short-term trips to Cameroon and Kenya alongside his wife, Angela, who is a pediatric hospitalist.

Serving with World Medical Mission opens up extraordinary opportunities for Christian men and women willing to use their professional expertise in areas of great need.

Minister in Jesus' Name

“ There are lost people everywhere, but I have never felt it so evident until coming here.” Ayden Toleman Registered Nurse Memorial Christian Hospital, Bangladesh

As patients walk through the darkest times of their lives, World Medical Mission volunteers have the opportunity to pray and share the Gospel with them, ministering to their spiritual needs as they work to treat their physical ailments.

Relieve Weary Healthcare Workers

“ Having people visit us to help is a big relief, and we feel that we are not alone. We feel we have a shoulder to lean on.” Dr. Elijah Terer CEO AIC Litein Hospital, Kenya

Local doctors serving in our partner hospitals around the world are often overwhelmed, facing burnout due to high patient numbers and the severity of the medical conditions they see on a daily basis. All this often comes without periods of rest or time away for themselves. They are drained physically, emotionally, mentally, and even spiritually, and they are in dire need of a break to recharge and refocus.

Help Train the Next Generation

“ I think that's the biggest reason I was there—not to teach just a few people, but to teach a few people who will then go and teach more people and continue spreading knowledge.” Dr. Janae Fry Emergency Medicine Resident Chogoria Hospital, Kenya

Medical and dental professionals who come to serve on short-term trips with World Medical Mission also play an important part in building up the future healthcare system of the country they visit. Skilled men and women can pull from their wealth of knowledge and experience in Western healthcare settings to share their expertise with those who will be caring for local patients long after they are gone.

The number of patients is overwhelming. Medical staff are exhausted. The needs are great.

World Medical Mission is looking for Christian medical and dental professionals like you to use the gifts and talents God has given you to expand his kingdom and fill these needs. Not only will you treat physical sickness and injuries, you will shine as a light for Jesus Christ and provide hope to people who are suffering.

World Medical Mission takes care of all the details for your short-term assignment, including orientation, travel schedules, economy airfare, visas, permits, housing, transportation, and more.

Apply today and use your God-given abilities in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and other fields to serve the needs of those who are suffering around the world.

Other Ways to Get Involved

Post-Residency Program

Consider our program that funds Christian medical professionals who have been called to a career in medical missions.

Specialty Teams

Be part of a short-term volunteer team of Christian medical professionals who serve in specialized fields.

Biomedical Technology

Help ensure that partner mission hospitals have properly functioning equipment.

Ways to Give

Give to World Medical Mission

Support a Medical Professional

All volunteers are responsible for raising support to be used for expenses related to serving.

Donating Medical Equipment & Supplies

Give machinery and supplies to mission hospitals through World Medical Mission.

Prescription for Renewal

Connect with Christian medical professionals at our annual conference and explore service opportunities in mission hospitals around the globe.

International Health Forum

Our monthly webinars provide practical information for medical personnel and students who have an interest in global medicine and public health, disaster medicine, and related topics.

It only costs $6 to provide lesson books and a Bible for a boy or girl participating in this discipleship program by Samaritan’s Purse.

It only costs $10 to provide a Bible or Christian literature for a family in need through the Christmas catalog.

You are visiting the international website for Samaritan’s Purse, headquartered in the United States.

You also may be interested in visiting and giving through our affiliate sites:.

• Samaritan’s Purse Australia and New Zealand
• Samaritan’s Purse Canada
• Samaritan’s Purse Germany
• Samaritan’s Purse Korea
• Samaritan’s Purse United Kingdom

• [email protected]
• 913 338 0343
• History/Mission
• Staff/Board/Contact
• Newsletters
• Inspirational Stories
• Needed Supplies
• Missions Maker

Uganda 2022 – Return to Uganda

•   / Uganda
•   / Uganda 2022 – Return to Uganda

In 2019, Medical Missions Foundation celebrated 10 years of mission trips to Uganda. The following two years, because of a global pandemic, we were prevented from reaching those in need of critical medical services. Finally, in 2022, we were able to return to Uganda.

As my first time traveling with our Uganda team, I am completely overwhelmed by the complexity of the logistics involved in putting this, or any of our other missions together. I know much of the hard work put into planning for our missions from the perspective of our Missions Support expert, Sulamita, who collects credentials, passport and visa information, making and changing flight arrangements and so much more, while putting out fires in all planning.

I see the passion from our dedicated Uganda mission directors, Brandon Pomeroy, Mark Shields and Pepper Card. Brandon, so eager to pack his surgical schedule with as many procedures as he can. Mark, making the arrangements for all local transport of people and luggage, while being the ambassador for our team. Pepper, with so much heart, putting thousands of hours into packing supplies, making arrangements with local medical staff and ensuring everything goes as planned in Gulu.

And none of this can be done without the commitment of all the volunteers on this mission. Doctors, nurses and nonmedical people who have donated their time and money to travel 26 and a half hours in flights and airports, then seven hours in non-airconditioned busses, separated from family and friends for ten days, to travel to this wonderful place called Gulu.

I have met some of the local angels who take care of the patients everyday of St Mary’s Hospital Locor. One of which, Sister Rose, who welcomed me as if we had always been best friends. And, when we arrived at the hospital, our team was greeted by the nursings staff, with the sweetest song and parade into the hospital.

I am so excited to see what this trip will bring. To see our amazing Uganda team in action, changing the lives of these kind people.

• (970) 635-0110

Undergrad Students

Medical mission trips for college students: undergraduate students, pre-med students, pre-dental students, nursing students – gain valuable experience to take your education to the next level.

Since 2002, International Medical Relief has been sending volunteer medical teams to provide valuable medical and dental care in developing countries. We send teams on 4 to 14-day missions to more than 80 different countries around the world providing medical, dental, and surgical care where it is needed most. Longer-term missions are also available!

Why Medical Mission Trips with IMR?

Medical mission trips for college students from international medical relief offer a unique insight into the rewards and demands of a professional health career..

• Learn through a combination of mentoring, observation, and tutorials
• Gain insight into the rewards and demands of a medical career
• Care for patients under the direct supervision of licensed medical professionals
• Participate in clinics in a variety of patient care roles
• Earn 80-110 clinical hours of experience plus a certificate of participation from IMR - Learn More
• Opportunities for college credits (school dependent) - Learn More
• Check out our Yale Speaker Series with IMR

Undergrad Student Roles in Clinic

Learning opportunities.

All providers on IMR medical mission trips for college students are responsible for teaching IMR student volunteers and local health care students as time allows. You will have learning opportunities every day and gain valuable experience in patient care.

Intake & Triage

Well and sick care shadowing and scribing, laboratory and respiratory therapy, wound care and minor procedures, diagnosis equipment, community health education, patient transports and home visits, statistics and pre-packing medications, clinical trials.

• Testimonials

Join Us in Making a Difference.

You can join an IMR medical mission team or donate today!

• [email protected]
• 1151 Eagle Drive Suite 457 Loveland, CO. 80537

Give with Confidence

• Sustainable Community Health
• Financial Accountability & Transparency
• Blog: News from the Field
• Join the Cause

Who Can Volunteer?

• Medical Providers
• Dental Professionals
• Non-Medical Volunteers
• Professional Students
• Pharmacists
• EMS Personnel
• Interpreters
• Complementary Medicine Professionals
• Surgical Teams
• Ophthalmologists & Optometrists

Volunteer Resources

• Getting Ready to Go
• Clinic Guide
• Country Details
• Donation Receipts

Get Updates on How You Can Make an Impact

• Name * First Name Last Name

© Copyright 2024 International Medical Relief. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | | Cookie Policy |Website by SageMG

Privacy Overview

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Find Your Mission

Connect & cure.

MedicalMissions.org connects healthcare volunteers with the mission-centered organizations that need them, increasing access to quality healthcare around the world. Registration, search and mission posting is free for all volunteers and organizations.

Use your time and talents to make a difference in your life and the lives of others.

Organizations

Connect your organization with motivated health care professionals, medical volunteers and non-medical personnel.

Our History

Public Information

Mission & Vision

Our Core Values

Our Statement of Faith

Our Leadership

Board of Trustees

House of Representatives

Customer Service

Mailing Address

CMDA Logo Store

Devotionals

Ministry Blogs

Media Resources

CMDA in the News

Press Releases

Publications

Newsletters

Advertising

Healthcare Job Listings

Educational Opportunities

Racism & Reconciliation

Racial Justice in Healthcare

Position Statements

Public Policy Statements

Ethics Statements

Standards4Life

Public policy.

The Point Blog

Christian Doctor's Media Training

Washington Office

Freedom2Care

News, Analysis, Resources

• Member Search
• Learning Center

Find a Trip

• Trip Preparation
• Urgent Needs
• Application Information
• Team Participant Manual
• Mission Scholarships
• Additional Resources

Each year, we send 45 to 55 teams around the world to countries including El Salvador, East Africa, I*dia, the Pacific, Nicaragua, Central Asia, the Middle East and many others. We encourage you to browse through our available trip opportunities to find the trip best suited to fit your needs. Unless noted as a specialty team, all trips welcome physicians, dentists, dental assistants, hygienists, pharmacists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, physical therapists, optometrists, nurses, techs, students, interpreters and non-medical volunteers.

In order to be considered for acceptance to the trip, your completed application with all credentials and GHO Waiver of Responsibility Form must be submitted to GHO.

Trip Calendar

Remember Me

• How We Work
• What Makes GHR Different
• Frequently Asked Questions
• News and Stories
• Volunteer with GHR
• Upcoming Missions 2024
• Volunteer Testimonials
• Previous Medical Mission Trips
• Online Application

Vietnam Medical Mission: December 2022

Ha giang, vietnam – december 28, 2022 — january 5, 2023.

Global Health Reach will return on a medical mission trip to Vietnam.  Volunteers will travel to rural villages near Ha Giang, Vietnam (located 7 hours North of Hanoi). GHR is excited to continue our services in the same village we have partnered with since 2018.

Mission Trip Summary

Volunteers will have the unique opportunity to live and work with local H’mong communities in the Ha Giang region of Vietnam.  This population, while only representing a mere 15% of the entire population of Vietnam, also represent 39% of the population that is below the poverty line.  They face many health issues that GHR is hoping to address:

• Limited access to preventative health care – health care services are only sought when problems become an emergency.
• Insufficient means to pay for health care – patients often are too poor to transport themselves to a hospital, pay for food, and purchase drugs or supplies that are not covered by the government-subsidized insurance.
• Substandard health care – if patients can pay for health care services, the quality and speed of care is drastically lower for patients covered under government-subsidized health care
• Insufficient health education – communities are not empowered with education to prevent common illnesses and to promote well being.

This trip is not for the faint of heart, but for the more adventure-minded volunteers. GHR volunteers can expect an authentic experience, staying with the most gracious H’mong hosts and be treated to traditional tasty cuisine while staying in a local homestay. Homestays are clean and safe, but facilities are not typical of those found in the USA. The team will conduct four days of clinics at two locations, treating patients with a wide variety of conditions and educating them on sanitation best practices. These trips are perfect for pre-med students and other students looking to learn medicine, build character and push yourself to be a better you. .  While team members should not expect five-star luxuries, all of the basics will be covered!

**PLEASE NOTE: these dates do NOT include travel time to and from Hanoi, Vietnam. Most volunteers from the USA typically add an additional day flying to and from Vietnam.

Clinic Logistics and Details

Medical clinics will be conducted at two different H’mong communities in the mountainous region of Ha Giang, Vietnam (locations not disclosed due to security reasons).  Volunteers will be given all supplies (equipment and medicine) necessary to provide medical services.  Logistics (transportation, food, water, etc.) are all handled by GHR so that volunteers can focus on the patients!  We are expecting to see approximately hundreds of patients.

Vietnam Medical Mission Costs

To cover the costs of this trip, GHR requires a minimum donation of $1,950 (does not include air travel to and from Hanoi).  This donation includes:

• Medical supplies, equipment, and medications
• Scrubs for volunteers
• Private transportation in Vietnam (including airport pickup/drop-off at designated time)
• 9 nights of lodging in Vietnam
• 3 meals a day, bottled/filtered water
• Private cultural immersion tour in Ha Giang
• Private tour in Hanoi
• COVID 19 test prior to departure

Want to extend your stay before or after the medical mission?  That’s a great idea!  Just let us know what your travel plans are and we’ll do our best to accommodate.

Ready to Apply?

Please fill out our ONLINE APPLICATION HERE

Want to Learn More?

Do you have questions regarding the trip?  Please complete the form below and we will reach out to you shortly!

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Phone Number

Desired Trip (If Applicable) --- To be announced

Your Message

• Get Started
• About Healthcare Missions

Short Term Missions

• Long Term Missions
• Market Place Worker
• Medical Education
• Domestic Missions
• Resource Library
• Interest Areas
• Directory of Organizations
• Directory of Members

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

• 2024 Virtual Events
• Create an Account
• Missional.Life
• What's New
• A Ministry of Southeast Christian Church

• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Pointing Others to the Great Physician

Journey: passport to rio, a black-tie gala, upcoming trips.

Get Involved

So many cultures, so many languages, so many customs, but each country has one commonality. Each is full of people hungry for love, hungry for God.

Stay Connected

Connect with us

What Our Volunteers Say

[The Lord gave] me assurance that He wants to use me on the mission field now, and for my future through my career.

Get The Latest

Sign Up Now

289 Jonesboro Rd, Suite 364 McDonough, GA 30253

844 Hampton Rd McDonough, GA 30253 

410.391.7000

[email protected]

Global health

What i learned from my medical mission trip to help ukrainian refugees in april, i worked with a team providing medical aid at two checkpoints on the polish-ukrainian border..

Student Doctor Kana attends Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine.

On April 1, 2022, as a third-year osteopathic medical student at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, our team from Global Hands arrived in Poland with the sole aim of providing care to Ukrainian refugees on a two-week medical mission trip. Since my return, I have had an opportunity to reflect on my experience and on the many lessons I learned while interacting with refugees and medical professionals from across the globe.

I had always envisioned medical missions as part of my future career, but the thought of going to Ukraine on a medical mission as a third-year student never occurred to me. However, when Janell Wright, OMS IV, who also attends TouroCOM, and I were approached by Global Hands, headed by Vikram Gupta, MD, to join a mission trip to Ukraine, we jumped at the opportunity.

We quickly learned that providing health care in Ukraine’s conflict zone is a rapidly evolving situation in which the needs of refugees are constantly changing and shaped by the events of the developing war.

Our team was initially supposed to be stationed in Warsaw at the Global Expo refugee center. However, after learning of the intense influx of refugees trying to cross the Polish border, we decided to shift our attention to the Ukrainian side of the border. We joined up with the Folkowisko Association, a Polish folk festival organization that was providing medical aid at the Korczowa-Krakovets and Budomezh-Hrushiv checkpoints in Ukraine.

Patients line up for hours to receive care

In both locations, refugees were lining up for hours in cold temperatures, and congested border lineups had led to several deaths earlier in the month, with wait times reaching over 30 hours. For many refugees, the clinic, staffed by volunteers, is the last point for health care they could receive before crossing into Poland on foot.

We rotated in 12-hour shifts with some of us working full 24-hour shifts. On our first full day, our team saw a steady stream of people, including sick children and exhausted adults looking for medical care. Refugees were dropped off in large buses from all over Ukraine, especially eastern regions such as Mariupol and Kharkiv.

Many of the patients came to our clinic with complaints of high blood pressure, dizziness, nausea and headaches. Yet others were far sicker. Several patients came in with hypertensive emergencies, with blood pressure readings as high as 260/170. They travelled long distances to reach the border with only one suitcase in hand, and often, essential medications were left behind. They left the clinic with some blood pressure medication in hand and advice to see a physician as soon as they reached Poland.

Heartbreaking family separations

Another common theme among the refugees was the anxiety that arose from family separation. The most difficult scenes to witness were the family separations. The men would remain in Ukraine while the women and children moved onto Poland. For me, it was so hard to watch them say goodbye, and it reminded me of my own two children, who were anxiously waiting for me to return home. While many of the refugees’ ailments could be alleviated by medications, a majority needed a shoulder to cry on or a hand to hold.

On my third shift, I had the pleasure of working with an emergency medicine physician from Switzerland and a nurse from Ireland. During a slower period in our shift, we spent time focusing on unpacking medications and organizing them into categories while making sure the most-needed medications, such as over-the-counter pain relievers and antihypertensives, were in easily accessible locations.

We also created portable emergency kits stocked with epinephrine, steroids and benzodiazepines to make the clinic more mobile, which proved to be extremely helpful just a few hours later.

Later that afternoon, on a bus from an eastern part of the country, a young woman in her early 40s had a seizure. As she stepped off the bus, she collapsed in the parking lot. Too unwell to walk, we brought her into the clinic on a stretcher and started her on intravenous fluids. After stabilizing her, we had to make the tough decision of whether to try and transport her across the Polish border or keep her in Ukraine and take her to the nearest hospital.

Simple patient transfers were not down the corridor, but hours away. Ultimately, we jointly decided the most conservative option would be to evacuate her by ambulance to the nearest hospital in Ukraine.

Working with scarce resources

In such a care environment, resources are limited and scarce and many times you must make do with what you have available. The clinic was not designed to treat trauma wounds, such as serious bleeding or broken bones. Those patients were sent to nearby hospitals in Ukraine, or if the situation allowed, to Poland. Instead, we were there to diagnose problems that, if untreated, could become more serious, such as hypertension, diabetes, coughs, headaches and stomach problems.

Most could be handled with some medication and reassurance. We were preventing them from getting sicker, especially when they still had many days ahead in their journey. Once the refugees reach the Polish side, they are quickly ushered into buses and moved into temporary centers in nearby cities, which delays their access to medical care for several more days.

Overall, volunteering on my first medical mission was a truly humbling experience. It was a unique chance to work alongside medical professionals from across the world and gain hands-on experience in the field. Seasoned physicians and nurses took time out during slower periods to teach us valuable skills, such as splinting and placing intravenous lines. This mission trip will always hold a special place in my heart, and it was one of the most gratifying and rewarding experiences of my life.

Related reading:

From Philly to Florida: How this DO’s path led to him serving underserved patients

Thriving in third year clerkships: Learning medicine at the bedside

Forrest 'Phog' Allen, DO: The father of basketball coaching

A worthwhile jugging act, from diapers to degrees: parenting through medical school and residency, defending the profession, advocacy success: west virginia governor jim justice vetoes bill to eliminate osteopathic medical board, journeys in medicine, what it's like to specialize in hematology and oncology, taking initiative, how to create a free omm clinic at your com, more in patient care, enhanced payment to support longitudinal care: the new e/m complexity add-on code g2211.

The office/outpatient E/M visit complexity add-on code was established to improve payment for the time, intensity and practice expense resources involved when physicians furnish O/O E/M office visit services that enable them to build longitudinal relationships with patients.

The dark side of semaglutide: Gastric emptying delays pose a risk when undergoing surgery

Semaglutide, hailed as a weight loss miracle, is facing new scrutiny over the potential risks to patients who are taking it and undergoing medical procedures.

Previous article

Next article, 16 comments.

Thank you for sharing your experience and what it’s like in Ukraine during such turbulent times. Keep up the good work!

Thanks for sharing your experiences. Please keep up the good work

One the most humble individuals to walk this earth. Everything you have done thus far in your life has paid off. Continue the great work. God speed

What an incredible experience. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you for sharing your experience, and for highlighting some of the challenges that many individuals have faced in this incredibly difficult situation. Great work!

Amazing work! Truly a selfless endeavor which speaks to your dedication to health care. Thank you for your efforts and for sharing this experience!

Thank you for sharing that incredible story and what a rewarding experiences!

Tina is one of the most compassionate people I have ever met. Thank you for your service and bearing witness. You are an inspiration to us all. Bless you and the people of Ukraine as they seek safety across the border.

What an amazing opportunity and experience. Thank you for sharing with us. You’re truly an inspiration for others! Keep doing the good work, beyond proud of you!

Wow! What a wonderful experience for you to share! Very delighted to see brave people like make such a difference in this world. Will be encouraging others to follow your footsteps

This was a honor to read. The work & dedication you & your medical team provided to ensure many refugees & their families were able to receive some form of medical care during a very challenging time. I can only imagine how humbling yet rewarding experience this was for you.

Thank you for being so generous with your time and your skills. I am sure that all the Ukrainian people you interacted with truly appreciated your assistance. Also, I would like to thank “The DO” for reminding your readers that the war for Ukraine’s freedom is still ongoing.

Thank you for your service and unconditional dedication to healthcare. You are simply amazing and selfless when it comes to helping others. God bless you and your compassion for others.

Thank you for your time and dedication to healthcare and what a beautiful journey. You are simply amazing and selfless when it comes to helping others. God bless you and your compassion for others.

Good job! I’ve been on medical mission trips, but not to war zones. This trip is an experience that you’ll reflect back on for decades. And I bet it will be the first of many medical mission trips. May you continue to bless the world with your work!

This is an amazing experience. Thank you for sharing. What an incredible reflection! You seem so dedicated to your work, and it is truly exciting that you were able to witness and help those who needed aid in Ukraine.

Leave a comment Cancel reply Please see our comment policy

Search form

Ny relief network 2022 calendar.

UPDATE: August 25, 2022 - Please note that ALL 2022 Medical Mission Trips are now closed . Visit the Disaster Relief page to find the  2023 NYRN Medical Mission  calendar for new dates and online registrations.

NYSNA and the New York Relief Network (NYRN) are pleased to announce the NYRN 2022 Medical and Educational Missions. We’re pleased to be continuing NYRN’s important work, and encourage all of you to join us as we bring the compassion, care, and expertise of NYSNA nurses to where they are most needed around the world. Download and share the calendar . PLEASE NOTE: All scheduling is subject to change in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and any related governmental restrictions regarding travel. NYRN assumes no liability for any expenses incurred by participants due to changes in this calendar.

For more information, e-mail Rony Curvelo and indicate where you work and which trip you are interested in.

Please Note: Events marked as “CLOSED” are full and will not be accepting more registrants. If you would like to be placed on a wait list, e-mail Rony at the link above. Please feel free to share the calendar with friends, colleagues, and others who may be interested in this vital work.

2022 New York Relief Network Upcoming Events

• Mexico, Tijuana, Mar. 10-14 , (Medical Mission)
• Cuba, April 7-11 , (Educational Mission)
• Ghana, April 21-29 , (Medical Mission)
• Peru, May 11-18 , (Medical Mission)
• El Salvador, June 8-13 , (Medical Mission)
• Thailand, June 16-24 , (Medical Mission)
• Mexico, Matamoros, July 6-10 , (Medical Mission)
• Egypt, August 21-29 , (Medical Mission)
• India and Nepal, Sept. 14-28 , (Medical Mission)
• Nepal, Sept. 14-20 , (Medical Mission)
• India, Sept. 20-28 , (Medical Mission)
• Puerto Rico, Oct. 12-16 , (Medical Mission)
• Brazil, Nov. 10-19 , (Medical Mission)
• DECEMBER TRIPS TO BE ANNOUNCED

Online Registration

• NYRN MIssion Relief Online Registration

Additional NYRN Information

• NYRN 2022 Missions Calendar (.pdf)
• Our Campaigns: Disaster Relief (includes an updated selection of videos profiling NYRN's continuing work in providing relief to disaster victims)

Connect With Us

Sign up for email updates, sign up for text alerts, recent blog posts.

• Job Opportunities: Work With NYSNA
• Join an Upcoming Labor Education Training!
• 2024 Primary Election Endorsements
• 2024 NYSNA OFFICER ELECTIONS
• NYSNA Board of Directors Endorses Statement on the Crisis in the Middle East
• Staffing Victory: NYSNA Pressures DOH to Enforce Staffing Law
• Nancy Hagans Gives Powerful Testimony at Congressional Hearing Held by Sen. Bernie Sanders
• NYSNA Nurses Gather and Celebrate at 2023 Convention!
• Gracie Square Hospital Nurses Win New Contract!
• Universal 1:2 Nurse-to-Patient Ratio in Effect for Critical Care Patients

NYSNA Blog Tags

• Moscow Tourism
• Moscow Hotels
• Moscow Bed and Breakfast
• Moscow Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Moscow
• Moscow Restaurants
• Things to Do in Moscow
• Moscow Travel Forum
• Moscow Photos
• All Moscow Hotels
• Moscow Hotel Deals
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

moscow medical academy - Moscow Forum

• Europe    
• Russia    
• Central Russia    
• Moscow    

moscow medical academy

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Central Russia forums
• Moscow forum

hi i would like to know if there is any close airports mear to moscow medical academy cos i will be coming this month or the next so inorder to book the ticket i tried checking online but there was no answer so if anyone can help it wil be great

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• SIM card. Russian SIM cards, do they still work in the UK? 3:07 pm
• Train Booking Moscow to St. Peter Mar 29, 2024
• Union Pay debit card Mar 27, 2024
• Russian trying to book a hotel in Jerusalem Mar 14, 2024
• Dual Citizen Arrested in Russia Mar 12, 2024
• about clothes Feb 27, 2024
• NOTE - border crossing from Finland into Russia closed Feb 09, 2024
• Snow boots in Red Square Feb 04, 2024
• Travelling to Moscow & Murmansk with toddle in winter Feb 02, 2024
• Anyone traveling from London to Moscow this week ? Jan 27, 2024
• Booking accommodation Jan 11, 2024
• Traveling friends (Designers preferred) :) Jan 05, 2024
• Are shops and things closed during Christmas and New Week ? Dec 15, 2023
• Traveling to Eastern Russia Nov 17, 2023
• Moscow to St Petersburg train or air?? 32 replies
• New Sapsan Express Train from Moscow to St Petersburg 18 replies
• New year's in moscow 8 replies
• Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour 5 replies
• How do you purchase Bolshoi Ballet tickets at a great price? 2 replies
• Select-a-room.com Are they legitimate? 3 replies
• Weather Moscow and St. petersburg in May 8 replies
• Night train to St Petersburg 3 replies
• ATM Access 12 replies
• Visa needed if on layover at Moscow Airport??????? 15 replies
• Where can I get initial answers to ANY question?

• Remember me Not recommended on shared computers

Forgot your password?

Or sign in with one of these services

• K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures

Moscow interview and medical

By Etkoehn July 16, 2019 in K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures

• medical exam
• Register to Reply or Ask a Question
• Go to first unread post

7 posts in this topic

Recommended posts, etkoehn   0.

So me and my fiancée are at the point of setting up a interview... I think.

Does one set the interview date first to set a medical appointment or do you set the medical before date before you can set the interview?

So trying to set up a interview date and it says none are available at the Moscow embassy.

How often do trey post interview dates?

my fiancées login was locked out for 72 hours and we cannot even check anymore. 

What did we do that caused them to lock it out? We don’t want to do that twice 

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

payxibka   10,044

1 minute ago, Etkoehn said: So me and my fiancée are at the point of setting up a interview... I think. Does one set the interview date first to set a medical appointment or do you set the medical before date before you can set the interview?   So trying to set up a interview date and it says none are available at the Moscow embassy. How often do trey post interview dates?   my fiancées login was locked out for 72 hours and we cannot even check anymore.  What did we do that caused them to lock it out? We don’t want to do that twice   

Try the Russian regional forum,  interview scheduling is a topic of discussion there 

DaveAndAnastasia   2,078

6 minutes ago, Etkoehn said: So me and my fiancée are at the point of setting up a interview... I think. Does one set the interview date first to set a medical appointment or do you set the medical before date before you can set the interview?

Usually you set up your interview appointment and then set your medical date. At least around when our case was approved, they typically had interviews on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If your fiancee doesn't have any K-2 children and already has all her vaccinations done, then you can do your medical two days before your interview and be fine; otherwise, you may want another day. So if your fiancee can't make Moscow in a reasonable day trip, it's easier if you get a Thursday date for your interview and do the medical on Monday or Tuesday (that's what Anastasia did, since it's a 12-hour overnight train trip from her hometown to Moscow).

6 minutes ago, Etkoehn said: So trying to set up a interview date and it says none are available at the Moscow embassy. How often do trey post interview dates?

Unfortunately, Moscow is very unpredictable on this. They didn't have any K-1 interviews in December 2018 or March 2019, as far as I know... but managed to clear most of the backlog that had built up in late 2018 in Jan 2019, so Anastasia didn't have too much trouble getting an interview for February in mid-January.

If your fiancee searches on Russian-language forums, she can probably find a WhatsApp group of fiancees to join that keeps track of interview openings in Moscow ( @Lars & Sasha  can also point you in the right direction there, but several exist).

Quote my fiancées login was locked out for 72 hours and we cannot even check anymore.  What did we do that caused them to lock it out? We don’t want to do that twice

I think that's caused by accessing the site too frequently, but I don't know what the rules are.

On 7/16/2019 at 11:50 AM, DaveAndAnastasia said: Usually you set up your interview appointment and then set your medical date. At least around when our case was approved, they typically had interviews on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If your fiancee doesn't have any K-2 children and already has all her vaccinations done, then you can do your medical two days before your interview and be fine; otherwise, you may want another day. So if your fiancee can't make Moscow in a reasonable day trip, it's easier if you get a Thursday date for your interview and do the medical on Monday or Tuesday (that's what Anastasia did, since it's a 12-hour overnight train trip from her hometown to Moscow).   Unfortunately, Moscow is very unpredictable on this. They didn't have any K-1 interviews in December 2018 or March 2019, as far as I know... but managed to clear most of the backlog that had built up in late 2018 in Jan 2019, so Anastasia didn't have too much trouble getting an interview for February in mid-January.   If your fiancee searches on Russian-language forums, she can probably find a WhatsApp group of fiancees to join that keeps track of interview openings in Moscow ( @Lars & Sasha  can also point you in the right direction there, but several exist).     I think that's caused by accessing the site too frequently, but I don't know what the rules are.

So trying to get use to this site. So I will let her know about the WhatsApp.

When they do post opening days is it usually beginning  of the month or the week? Or is it just random? And is it off of Moscow time zone?

 She has no kids and it’s an overnight train ride or a 5 hour drive to Moscow from where she lives. So if she had a Thursday interview she would need a Tuesday medical? I thought the paper work said 10-14 days before 

 Thanks for your help

On 7/16/2019 at 11:36 AM, payxibka said: Try the Russian regional forum,  interview scheduling is a topic of discussion there 

So I’m not sure how to get there. I assume it’s in Russian? If so I will have to have my fiancée check it out

4 hours ago, Etkoehn said: So I’m not sure how to get there. I assume it’s in Russian? If so I will have to have my fiancée check it out

Why on God's green earth would you make that assumption 

https://www.visajourney.com/forums/forum/98-russia-ukraine-and-belarus/

9 hours ago, payxibka said: Why on God's green earth would you make that assumption    https://www.visajourney.com/forums/forum/98-russia-ukraine-and-belarus/

I didn’t know it was here on visa journey and i figured if it was russian regional it was probably in Russian. Make sense why I thought that? 

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Already have an account? Sign in here.

• Existing user? Sign In
• Immigration Guides
• Immigration Wiki
• Example Immigration Forms
• Form Downloads
• K1 Fiancé Visa
• CR1 & IR1 Spousal Visa
• US Visa FAQs

Office Reviews & Info

• Consulate & USCIS Office Reviews
• US Port of Entry Reviews
• US Consulate Information
• Processing Times
• Immigration Timelines
• VJ Partners
• Ask a Lawyer
• All Activity
• Popular Topics
• Create New...

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.