Volunteer Health Programs in Costa Rica

  Costa Rica

• North Western Region: 
Heredia

Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Ongoing

Description: Volunteer health projects in Costa Rica offer a wonderful opportunity for doctors, nurses, medical, and other graduate level students to become familiar with the challenges and health issues in Costa Rica. Tasks range from observation of doctors and nurses to assistance. Depending on Spanish proficiency, experience, skill, and knowledge, volunteers may assist with tasks such as checking blood pressure, distributing food and medicine, weighing babies, accompanying emergency response vehicles, and helping with first aid procedures. Volunteers may also be asked to help with different programs such as health, basic prevention, nutrition, and sanitation programs organized through a number of hospitals, local clinics, and EBAIS (small community clinics). The day to day activities of a volunteer will vary depending on the needs of the organization as well as the specific interests and skills of the volunteer. International volunteers are out to make a difference, and it is important to keep perspective on your ability and the big picture. Volunteers provide steps toward larger goals. Sometimes in can be difficult to keep that in mind when you see how much work needs to be done. Don't be overwhelmed, the impression that you leave behind is immeasurable. The most successful volunteers are flexible and able to adapt the daily activities to the given day--remember each day is different!

Highlights: Costa Rica has something for almost every traveler, from surfing and scuba diving, to hiking and exploring the interior. The terrain and eco-systems are incredibly varied and home to 6% of the Earth's biodiversity. Mountains rise from the Pacific ocean and Caribbean Sea to form the spine of Costa Rica and define hundreds of microclimates. Over 25% of the country is protected in an extensive national park and preserve system. The military was outlawed after the civil war in 1948. The absence of a military over the past 60 years has created a pacifist attitude which carries over into almost all aspects of life. Ticos (Costa Ricans) are known for being friendly, polite almost to a fault, and warm.

Qualifications: Volunteers with this program must be qualified health professionals such as doctors, nurses, physicians assistants, physical therapists, or nursing assistants. Students in graduate health programs or medical school are also welcome.

Minimum Education: Bachelor of Science

Cost in US$: $905 for two weeks

Airport Pickup: Volunteers are met at the airport in San Jose and provided with transportation to their host family.

In-country Orientation: Each volunteer program starts with a two to three day orientation which covers important topics on the logistics of living and working in Costa Rica.

In-country Staff Support: ELI's Costa Rica coordinator has years of experience working with visitors to Costa Rica. He is very resourceful and on call 24/7 in case of emergency.

Accommodations: Volunteers will stay with a local host family where they will be provided with a room and breakfast and dinner each day. By living with a family, volunteers will learn about the day to day rhythms of Costa Rican life first hand as well as sample traditional meals not usually available in restaurants.

Spanish Instruction: Participants will receive one week (20 hours) of Spanish instruction at a local Spanish language school. Participants wanting more Spanish instruction can enroll in additional classes.

Experience Required: yes

Volunteers should have experience working in health care fields.

Typical Volunteer: There is no typical ELI volunteer. We work with people from all over the world and a variety of backgrounds. ELI has placed volunteers ranging in age from 18-81. Successful volunteers are flexible, upbeat, energetic, and inquisitive.

Age Range: Volunteers must be at least 18 years old

This Program is open to World Wide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Costa Rica Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Resume
• Written Application

ELI-Experiential Learning International's Mission Statement: ELI, a registered non-profit organization, partners with organizations from around the world that make a difference in their communities. We work closely with these groups to ensure ELI volunteers get meaningful experiences at reasonable prices.

Year Founded: 2001