Overview
Medical groups come to San Lucas Mission to volunteer, learn and participate in the cross-cultural experience the mission offers. Working alongside Guatemalans and observing the local culture, groups learn about the Mission clinic, rural healthcare program, and healthcare in Guatemala.
Volunteer Work
After medical volunteers are oriented to the community’s health programs and the EMR system, they will join a team of Health Promoters who work in the rural communities. One of the leaders of the Health Promoter program will meet you at the Mission and accompany you to the clinic where you will pick up your supplies for the day. From there, you will be transported to one of the surrounding communities for your clinic day.
Medical teams typically eat breakfast and dinner at the Mission and lunch at the clinic.
It is required that medical groups bring a licensed physician and observe physician-student ratio protocols in order to provide medical service in the communities.
Surgical groups are based in the clinic and need to coordinate their visit through the Healthcare Committee and Dr. Tun.
Language
Interpreters can be provided, although many groups choose to bring their own. Visitors are not required to speak Spanish, although being able to converse with Guatemalans – particularly in a medical context – will greatly facilitate the experience. Remember that Spanish will be the second language for most, therefore Health Promoters will be available to translate from Spanish to Kaqchickel when needed.
Medical Supplies
As you prepare for your trip, your group should decide on how to supply your pharmacy in the rural community clinics. Some groups decide to bring their own medications from the States, while others chose to purchase medications through the hospital. This should be arranged at least 90 days before your clinic trip, in order for the Hospital to prepare the necessary paperwork.
Pre-Arrival Orientation
Cultural sensitivity and openness to the local culture is paramount in ensuring that this cross-cultural experience is as fruitful and as mutually dignifying as possible. New groups are required to connect with Dr. Paul Wise of the Healthcare Committee to receive an orientation and ensure volunteer requirements are met. Returning groups are encouraged to connect with the Healthcare Committee.
It is recommended that medical volunteers come with an open mind and willingness to do a variety of medical activities – needs of the Mission healthcare program vary from season to season and groups should plan to be flexible, humble, and open to learning.
Get Started
We encourage you to fill out the inquiry form below to begin the application process.
Once the form is submitted, we will connect with you in the next 3-7 business days to confirm details.
Health and Safety Protocols
A main priority in the Friends of San Lucas Visitors Program is to protect the health and safety of local community members and visitors. Prior to traveling to Guatemala, we recommend that visitors set up an appointment at a travel clinic to discuss vaccinations and travel safety practices.