Medical/Healthcare Project

Project At A Glance

Location: Quito and the prismatic Galapagos Islands Start Point: Quito End Point: Quito International Airport Duration: 2-12 Weeks Hours: 20-30 Hours per week Food: Local meals 3 times a day Room: Host family or hostel Date: First and Third Monday of each month

Project Summary

IFRE's Medical/Healthcare Project in Ecuador is the ideal project for anyone considering a career in the healthcare and/or nursing field as well as individuals interested in the subject of alternative medicine. Within this program, volunteers make a genuine contribution to staff working within Ecuador 's hospitals, health clinics and NGOs. Volunteers are needed throughout the entire country of Ecuador to assist the populations residing in the poorest urban and rural areas.

IFRE's partnering medical centers welcome medical students, specialists, nurses, etc. Key attributes for individuals interested in this project include: pro-action, enthusiasm, and a readiness to work in unfamiliar circumstances. Volunteers will be involved in the daily procedures of medical centers – observing or directly providing various sorts of assistance to existing doctors and nurses. Volunteers may also be expected to assist in maintaining files, providing assistance to the reception desk as well as in nurseries, routine patient check-ups, and more.

Skills/Qualifications

Volunteers/Interns interested in joining the volunteer health program in Ecuador must possess some proof of healthcare certification, such as an ID as a medical student, EMT or paramedic certification, or nursing or physician's credentials. IFRE's partnering hospitals/healthcare clinics require a copy of your resume – clearly stating credentials and education – before your arrival at your assigned project.

Volunteers' Responsibilities

Volunteers participating within the capacity of a medical volunteer in Ecuador will have various duties depending on education, skills, experience, and qualifications. Volunteers are not permitted to perform major diagnoses or surgical duties. Usually, volunteers will assist doctors – usually within the capacity of an assistant. Volunteers can expect to perform the following duties: measure blood pressure, body temperature, record patients' height, weight, etc. Volunteers may also provide much-needed assistance in various health “camps,” distribute medication, provide tips to patients regarding proper health, nutrition, personal hygiene, sanitation as well as providing general counsel to in-need Ecuadorians. Qualified participants may also assist in treating minor wounds and ailments as well as record-keeping.

Room/Food