Ecuador Mini Mission

The Need

Amidst the beautiful scenery, Ecuador’s environment is extremely vulnerable to disasters that impact the community’s overall health and wellbeing. Some of the greatest health problems in Ecuador today include malnutrition, diabetes, and heart disease, which is the leading cause of death. Other common problems include acute respiratory infections and diarrheic diseases, which have risen dramatically since 1990.

IMR’s goal is to help Ecuador achieve global health security and improve access to health care services. Helping countries respond quickly and effectively to public health threats is critical in order to prevent the spread of diseases and to sustain the wellbeing of the community. By joining the IMR team, you will be able to collaborate with the community to improve the overall health of the people in Ecuador.

To help provide quality medical care to all citizens, IMR sends volunteers to remote areas that are in the greatest need for quality health care and medical services. Our mobile clinics offer assistance to children, women, families, the elderly, and other in-need populations.

Ecuador’s health care system is saturated with people seeking care, making it difficult and sometimes impossible for the people with low income to receive the attention they need.  Many do not seek much needed medical attention for reasons such as economical, transportation mobilization, and beliefs.  The people choose to live with illness, pain, and other medical pathologies without the possibility of consulting a physician and instead use nothing or only traditional medicine.

You and the rest of the volunteer team will educate the patients in our clinics on how to stay healthy and how to care for their loved ones. Together, we will treat a wide variety of acute and chronic illnesses, including dengue fever, hepatitis, malaria, pneumonia, and digestive diseases. One of the main focuses of this mission is dentistry. Because all community members are encouraged to attend, the demand for dental care will be high. Another main focus of this mission is women’s healthcare. We will provide general women’s and infant care, as well as strengthen the knowledge and skills of the local midwives.

Our Work

IMR is thrilled to partner with an incredible organization that has spent decades transforming rural communities in Ecuador. Our partners are the heart and soul of social and community aid programs, collaborating with government agencies, the fire department, and private businesses to bring essential support to those who need it most.

With meticulous planning and a passion for service, IMR is committed to making a tangible impact on every mission. Each of our initiatives aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 17, ensuring that our efforts are purposeful and far-reaching.

We are dedicated to uplifting vulnerable populations by providing compassionate, shoulder-to-shoulder care alongside our local partners. This collaboration not only strengthens healthcare access but also cultivates future leaders in health and public service, embodying the spirit of UNSDG 3: Good Health & Wellbeing.

In alignment with UNSDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, IMR works at the invitation of our local hosts, responding to the urgent need for medical and dental care, as well as health education. Our missions are built on trust and respect, ensuring that we work hand-in-hand with communities to achieve lasting change.

Together with you, we will bring hope, health, and healing to those who need it most.

This Mission

Embarking on a medical mission to Quito, Ecuador is an extraordinary opportunity to serve a diverse and vibrant community while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Andean capital. Quito, perched high in the mountains at 9,350 feet above sea level, is not only a city of historical and cultural significance but also a place where healthcare needs are pressing, especially in underserved populations.

During this mission, you’ll be working with local communities, providing essential healthcare services that range from general consultations and pediatric care to health education and preventative screenings. The patients you’ll meet are from all walks of life—families who prioritize their children’s health, elders who are respected and cared for, and individuals who may have limited access to medical resources. Your skills and compassion will make a significant impact on their lives, and in return, you’ll gain invaluable insights into their rich cultural traditions and resilience.

The medical mission is not just about providing care; it’s also about building relationships and understanding the unique health challenges faced by the people of Quito. Working alongside local firefighters, you’ll learn about the region’s health system, common medical conditions, and the social determinants that influence health in this high-altitude environment.

Lodging/Transportation

The team will be staying in authentic, safe, and comfortable accommodations, providing a perfect home base for your mission. After fulfilling and rewarding clinic days, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Ecuador as you explore the city’s charming streets, local markets, and stunning historic sites. After clinic, discover the rich traditions and breathtaking landscapes that make Quito truly special.

From the moment your clinic begins, all transportation to and from clinic is taken care of. Relax and enjoy the scenic rides to and from the clinic in safe, comfortable vehicles with professional drivers. These are just a few of the many reasons to join IMR on this unforgettable journey. Keep your eyes open—there’s so much to see in the picturesque valleys and rolling hills surrounding your home away from home this week!

For upgraded accommodation, see our Signature Trip option.

Highlights

Beyond the clinic, Quito’s charm is undeniable. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a captivating maze of colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning churches. The vibrant colors of the city reflect the warmth and spirit of its people. Take time to explore local markets filled with handmade crafts, traditional foods, and the famous Otavalo textiles, and experience the hospitality and generosity of the Ecuadorian culture.

On your free day, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the “Mitad del Mundo” monument, where you can stand on the equator line, symbolically connecting the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. This unique experience is a reminder of the global impact of your mission, as you help bridge gaps in healthcare across continents. Participating in a medical mission to Quito is more than just a professional endeavor; it’s a journey that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the beauty of Ecuador, the strength of its people, and the profound difference that compassionate healthcare can make in the lives of those you serve.

Extend Your Stay

Since you’re already making the journey across the globe, why not extend your stay and explore one of the world’s greatest wonders—the Galápagos Islands! Join International Medical Relief for an exclusive trip extension with our partner, Worldwide Navigators.

On this unforgettable adventure, you’ll discover the magic of the Galápagos Islands up close. Imagine lounging on the beach alongside playful sea lions, swimming with penguins, wandering among giant tortoises, and exploring flamingo-filled lagoons. Dive into crystal-clear waters through lava tunnels teeming with vibrant marine life, and even step foot on an active volcano! These islands are like no other place on Earth, and each day offers a new, awe-inspiring experience.

Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make the most of your journey. Email travel@worldwidenavigators.com to learn more and reserve your spot!

Itinerary at a Glance