Hospital and Medical Clinic in Cotacachi, Ecuador

  Ecuador

• All Other Regions of Ecuador: 
Cotacachi

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: Flexible, year round

Description: If you are a medical student or interested in a career in medicine, this program gives you a chance to experience this amazing country while you gain valuable experience with a Spanish speaking population.

Offering a variety of care and services to the poor in Cotacachi, the hospital tends to many patients each day. From minor illnesses to major surgeries, the hospital is desperate to service the needs of the community. With families coming from near and far, this medical center gives many their only hope of survival. Always short-staffed, they are in much need of volunteers to help.

Our staff in the US are experienced volunteers themselves who are happy to share their experiences and expertise with prospective volunteers. Our partner staff in Ecuador are friendly, caring and dedicated to ensuring that all volunteers have a rewarding experience. You will be met upon arrival in Quito and will receive an orientation and overnight stay. You will be assisted with your travel arrangements to Cotacachi the following day.

Highlights:
- Homestay with a carefully screened, welcoming host family
- Three meals daily
- Support of friendly, experienced staff in the US and in Ecuador
- Comprehensive accident and medical insurance
- 24 hour emergency support

Qualifications: Volunteers will be working side by side with the doctors and nurses in different areas of the hospital. Normally starting in the emergency room, volunteers have the chance to get comfortable with the hospital and using their Spanish. They will learn how to take vital signs, do minor suturing, remove stitches, and take blood samples. Afterwards, they may move on to other areas like pediatrics, obstetrics, internal medicine, or surgery depending on where help is needed and on his or her interests. Specific duties will also depend on his or her level of Spanish and previous experiences and educational background.

An intermediate level of Spanish is required. Spanish lessons are available prior to the volunteer project in Quito for an additional fee.

Cost in US$: Starts at $900

Experience Required: yes

Experience and/or education in medicine is highly preferred; exceptions may be made on a case by case basis for those interested in exploring a career in medicine.

Typical Volunteer: CCI volunteers are caring and flexible people who are interested in a genuine cultural experience.

Age Range: 18 and over

This Program is open to American and Canadian Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Ecuador Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

Center for Cultural Interchange's Mission Statement: Founded in 1985, the Center for Cultural Interchange (CCI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of cultural understanding, academic development and world peace. Based in Chicago, Illinois, CCI organizes cultural exchange programs for participants of all ages, including high school abroad, independent homestay, internship, language study, eco-tours and volunteer programs in over thirty countries around the world.

Year Founded: 1985