Ecuador Signature

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

Experience Unparalleled Comfort and Luxury on This Signature Trip!

During this trip, the team will be staying at an exceptional 4+ star hotel that offers all the Western amenities you could desire, ensuring a truly comfortable and relaxing experience. Located in the heart of this vibrant city, the hotel boasts beautiful rooms with plush bedding, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Indulge in a range of dining options at your leisure outside of the program, from gourmet international cuisine to delicious local specialties, all available near your hotel.

Step outside and immerse yourself in the local culture, with lively music, diverse shopping, and authentic Ecuadorian cuisine just steps away. Quito’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes are yours to explore, whether you’re strolling through the bustling streets or enjoying the breathtaking views from the nearby hills.

From the moment you arrive, your comfort and safety are our top priorities. All transportation to and from the clinic is fully arranged, featuring professional drivers and secure vehicles. There’s no need to worry about logistics—just soak in the sights and sounds of this beautiful region.

With so much to see and do, you won’t want to miss a moment. Let the unique charm of Ecuador captivate you on this unforgettable journey with IMR!

This trip also features Classic Style accommodation which provides safe and comfortable lodging at a values-based price.  See our classic Ecuador Trip for details.

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 are already venturing across the globe, consider extending your stay by a few days to explore one of the globe’s treasures, the Galápagos Islands! Join International Medical Relief on an exclusive trip extension provided by our partner, Worldwide Navigators!

On this extension, you will have the opportunity to explore the enchanted islands of Galápagos.  Share a beach with sea lions, swim with penguins, walk with giant tortoises, stroll through flamingo lagoons, dive under lava tunnels among amazingly colored fish, and step on an active volcano. These islands are a unique place in the world and you will have the opportunity to make the most of each day. Learn more on the extensions tab on this page.

Itinerary at a Glance