Hospital and Medical Clinic in Cotacachi

About the Project

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. 

Volunteer Responsibilities

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.

Location

The hospital is located in Cotacachi, about 2 hours north of Quito. All volunteers will be met at the airport in Quito, given an orientation and overnight stay, and then taken to the bus station the following day to travel to Cotacachi.

Accommodations and Meals

Accommodation during the project is with a carefully screened host family located in Cotacachi. All meals with your host family are included during your stay.

Requirements

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

Need more information?
Request a Brochure

Send us a message

Feel free to contact us by phone toll free (in the U.S. only), 1-888-ABROAD-1 (888-227-6231).

Travel Guide

Other programs in Ecuador

Volunteer Application (pdf)

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