Not at all… we need volunteers of different kinds to make the mission run and ALL volunteers play an important role. We need people to move patients around the mission site, help set up and take down the site, play with the kids in daycare and much more.

All of them! We generally have a large population of women, children and the elderly.
All are welcome, but general family practice medicine, OB/GYN, pediatrics, gerontologists and emergency are our top priority.

People walk in with all kinds of needs and we try to cover all of them the best way possible.

We take care of your safety and general comfort needs, but it is a remote area and lacks most of what we have at home. Many factors should be considered including high altitude (see the specific question about it in our FAQs) food, smells and sights. They are very different than home. We serve the poorest population, and we encourage our missioners to love them and get to know their reality as deeply as possible. The reward is far greater than the discomfort.

Ayaviri is about 13,000 ft above sea level. On our way there we will drive through areas above 14000 ft. We acclimate in Cusco before the mission at 11,000 ft. The altitude can cause drowsiness, headaches and nausea. We will send information to each missionary about altitude and how to prepare. Our team is fully equipped to take care of you should you need assistance.

If you should fall ill, our medical staff is here to take care of you and will advise you of what they believe are the best options to take care of your health needs. This may mean that you have to leave the mission, particularly because altitude often plays a role in the symptoms we see in Ayaviri. While this rarely happens, it can be a possibility and you should be prepared.

At the heart of everything we do is a deep commitment to your well-being. Whatever your healthcare needs are when you are on the mission, our team will be ready to guide, assist, and advocate for your health. Count on us to be your first line of care—because you deserve to feel seen, heard, and cared for the entire time you are serving the people of Ayaviri. If you are not well, you cannot do the work you are meant to do.

Fundraising for a medical mission is not only okay—it’s essential. These missions rely on the generosity of others to provide critical care in places where resources are scarce and medical access is limited. By inviting others to contribute, you’re offering them a chance to be part of something meaningful: bringing health, hope, and healing to communities in need. Supporting a cause greater than ourselves is an act of compassion, and every donation—big or small—helps extend care to those who need it most.