Location:

San Jose, Costa Rica

Program Type:

Volunteer Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Work Types:

Health, Social Services

Duration:

1-2 weeks, 3-4 weeks, 1-3 months, 4-6 months, 1 year

Program Overview

Program Description:

The specific tasks assigned to volunteers greatly vary depending on the language skills, medical qualifications and experience of the participant. Tasks are assigned to volunteers at the discretion of the organization's staff according to Costa Ricas medical regulations. Volunteers may be asked to help with different health programs such as basic prevention, sanitation, and nutrition programs organized through hospitals, local clinics, and small community clinics (EBAIS). Participants with an appropriate background may be involved with more hands-on work such as checking blood pressure, distributing meds, weighing babies and helping with first aid procedures. The most successful volunteers are flexible and able to adapt the daily activities to the given day-remember each day is different! Volunteers with this program must be qualified health professionals such as doctors, nurses, physician's assistants, physical therapists, or nursing assistants. Students in graduate health programs or medical school are also welcome.

Our health programs focus on public health efforts to address the physical, mental and environmental concerns of Costa Rica. The health projects can provide wonderful opportunities for doctors, nurses, medical and pre-med students, who wish to become familiar with the medical issues and challenges facing the Costa Rica health care system.

Setting Description:

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.

Cost:

Cost in US$: Varies Includes: Food Housing In-country orientation/Training In-country staff support Written materials per-departure Language instruction