Your generous donation helps to save and change lives every day.
Your charitable investment will go toward ongoing global relief to care for the underserved and vulnerable people of this community. As a member of this medical mission team, you will elevate the long-term impact of sustainable, capacity-building efforts that improve the health, wellness, and quality of life of those most in need.
Overview
The Need
Despite receiving free medical and dental care during biannual medical missions, many members of the Jamaican population continue to suffer from lifestyle diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. A significant factor is patients not taking or refilling their prescribed medications consistently, leading to ongoing and preventable health issues.
When it comes to daily routines, many Jamaicans head straight to sea or work in the early hours, leaving oral health, proper nutrition, and personal hygiene behind. As a result, we commonly see decaying teeth, gingivitis, plaque, and cavities across all age groups. On average, our teams perform 40 extractions and 60 cleanings per clinic, serving both children and adults. The demand for dental care is high, and providing accessible, quality dental services remains a core priority of this mission.
We also focus strongly on children’s pre-school physicals, recognizing the critical importance of early intervention. These exams are vital for school readiness and long-term development. Volunteers will help ensure children meet growth milestones, are up to date on vaccinations, and are screened for vision, hearing, and other potential health concerns.
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and injuries remain the leading cause of death in Jamaica, with seven out of ten Jamaicans dying from cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or chronic lower respiratory disease. IMR’s goal is to support Jamaica in achieving global health security by increasing access to vital medical services and strengthening the local healthcare infrastructure.
By joining the IMR team, you’ll help provide quality medical and dental care, deliver preventive education, and collaborate directly with communities to improve their long-term health. Clinics serve children, women, families, the elderly, and other underserved populations, and volunteers will play a vital role in empowering families to care for their loved ones.
From treating acute illnesses like dengue, pneumonia, and digestive diseases, to focusing on preventive dental care and essential pre-school physicals, your work will have a direct and lasting impact on the health of this vibrant island community.
Our Work
The team will be visiting three different areas in Jamaica spanning across the landscape from fishing communities to rural areas and the inner city.
The fishing community depends heavily on the sale of their catch to sustain their families. The education of the people is relatively low and they depend heavily on donations and outreach programs such as ours to afford necessities. The other two communities in rural and inner-city areas are impoverished. In all of these areas, the people have jobs and work hard in the city or in the fishing communities.
Although they have some access to community clinics, there is evidence of lifestyle diseases, especially in the seniors, namely hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes. The working-class population tend to still fall below or just above Jamaica’s minimum wage, so they don’t prioritize health care as a spending option. As a result, lifestyle diseases are very evident during our visits.
Additionally as has been noted, prescriptions are often not being taken or re-filled. This places an undue health risk on those people who have been diagnosed with chronic conditions. They tend to prefer to treat the illnesses chronically when symptoms surface rather than acutely for prevention.
Education is a key focus for the IMR teams. Our goal is to leave these communities with sustainable knowledge to manage their healthcare encumberments. Alongside the valuable medical and dental care, other organizations and partners will be engaged providing valuable social services such as assistance in applying for birth certificates, referrals to social agencies, and blood donations.
With diligent planning and preparation, IMR is dedicated to ensuring that specific goals are met on our missions, each in correlation to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 17.
IMR works to elevate vulnerable populations through shoulder-to-shoulder care with our local partners, creating workforce density, and a cadre of future healthcare and public health leaders in association to UNSDG 3: Good Health & Wellbeing.
In correlation with UNSDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, our organization works in collaboration and at the request of local hosts where we are under their direct influence and affluence. IMR never goes into a country without a formal invitation where there is a great community need for medical or dental care and health education.
This Mission
Our partners have been vested heavily in the Jamaican communities for 25 years and provide assistance with health, education, sports, community development and environmental initiatives.
If you join the International Medical Relief team on our mission to improve the quality of life for the incredible people in Jamaica, you will find plenty of things to do outside of the clinic to enjoy the culture. Known as the “birthplace of reggae,” Jamaica offers travelers a treasure trove of natural jewels and a colorful African vibe. Golden beaches, lush green mountains, turquoise seas, coral reefs, rainforests, and rivers are just some of the island’s enviable assets.
Nature lovers will find plenty of things to do in Jamaica. You can hike and bird-watch in the jungle or dive and snorkel along the fringing reefs. Jamaica is also renowned for its many historic plantations where you can sample tropical fruits and tour the grand houses. You’ll also find some of the Caribbean’s most luxurious all-inclusive resorts here.
Lively Montego Bay is one of the most popular resort towns. Ocho Rios is the island’s major port of call for cruise ships, and Negril is famous for its long and lazy beach lined with clear waters and coconut palms. Ecotourists love peaceful Port Antonio, thanks to its proximity to the spectacular Blue Mountains.
Lodging/Transportation
The team will stay in a beautiful, safe, clean, and friendly hotel located in this wonderful city. You will be able to enjoy the local food, music, and an array of shops nearby. The culture of Jamaica will come alive as you explore the city after clinic and during your day off.
Upon your arrival in Jamaica, all transportation to the clinic we be arranged for you. Professional drivers, safe vehicles, and security are some of the many reasons to join IMR on a trip. Take in the beautiful Blue Mountain foreground views as you travel through the British-colonial architecture to the clinic which may take you by the water’s edge for views of the breathtaking reef-lined beaches and rainforest or right through the cosmopolitan area home to the famous Bob Marley.
Highlights
Families are the most important patients you will see, and in Jamaica, you will see a lot of families. Everyone wants you to help them keep their children healthy and their elders comfortable. It is our patients – and there are a lot of them! – that are the highlight of this trip.
You will have a free day to explore Jamaica. Whether you are up for an adrenaline fix, archeology of historical sites like Devon House, or relaxation at the beach, this trip is yours, jam-packed with diverse tourist attractions. And, of course, there’s reggae! In Kingston, Jamaica’s edgy capital, you can tour reggae legend Bob Marley’s former home and explore the city’s museums and historic sites. No wonder Jamaica is a favorite Caribbean getaway.
Extend Your Stay
You’re venturing across the globe. Have you considered extending your stay a few additional days to visit some of Central America’s top spots? Join IMR on an exclusive three-day trip extension provided by our partner, Worldwide Navigators.
We offer exclusive extensions for IMR volunteers to Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. Learn more about the trips on the Extensions tab on this page.
If you want to extend your stay in Jamaica, contact the travel experts at Worldwide Navigators. They can help you plan the perfect trip.
Itinerary at a Glance
Arrivals and Orientation
Clinic
Clinic
Free Day
Clinic
Clinic
Departures
Please View Full Itinerary in the Next Tab
Sustainable Impact
Your Journey
Weather
Clinic Photos
Gallery
Full Itinerary
This itinerary is subject to change without notice.
You will need to arrange your flight destination to be Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay. If you need assistance booking flights, please contact Worldwide Navigators, our preferred travel agency, at travel@worldwidenavigators.com. You may also choose to arrange transportation from the airport to your accommodation, which you may purchase from within your portal under Trip Add-Ons.
Arrivals and Orientation
You and the team will fly into Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay. Please arrive by 2pm. Upon arrival, your team will transport to your hotel in West Moreland Parish where you can check in and freshen up. You will enjoy a hearty dinner and attend the team orientation to prepare you for the upcoming week of clinic. Your team leader will assign roles for clinic, address IMR’s clinic protocols, and discuss the communities you will be serving in and around West Moreland Parish.
Meals: Dinner,
Clinic
Today will be your first day of the clinic. You and your team will provide community healthcare in a public health setting to continue IMR’s long-term, sustainable education efforts. Education is as important as medical and dental care for our patients. Each clinic includes basic health education according to the specialties and skills of the IMR volunteers, as well as the needs of the local people. When communities become empowered to take health and wellness issues into their own hands, they become self-sufficient. IMR provides learning opportunities for the local communities through classes and hands-on learning to sustain their well-being beyond our visit.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Clinic
After enjoying breakfast you will start on your second day of the clinic. The second day of clinic is great – you will surely have your best practices at the ready! Clinic setup will go quick today as you have already experienced this from your prior day. Enjoy the special moments in the clinic; the patients are so humbled to have you there to help them. They are grateful. Take in all of these memories. Time will go quickly.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Free Day
Take a well-deserved break and soak in the laid-back charm of Westmoreland, Jamaica. Spend your free day exploring the white sand beaches of Negril, just a short drive away—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing under the sun. Visit the famous Seven Mile Beach or take in the stunning views from the cliffs at Rick’s Café. If you’re up for adventure, opt for a guided waterfall hike or a local cultural tour to learn more about Jamaica’s rich heritage. Whether you’re recharging or exploring, your free day in Westmoreland is sure to be unforgettable.
Clinic
Access to primary healthcare in Jamaica remains a challenge in many underserved communities, resulting in a range of preventable and treatable conditions. A significant need exists for basic health screenings, preventive services, and education on everyday health practices. Community members also benefit greatly from health education and training focused on managing chronic illnesses, improving hygiene, and promoting wellness through lifestyle changes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Clinic
Final day of clinic! Keep taking in the beautiful sites the area of Jamaica has to offer and serving the community. Your patients throughout the week suffer from GI and respiratory diseases, ear, eye, and skin infections, and the back pain and joint pain that comes from working in the fields all day. Dehydration is always an underlying condition. You’ll find that prenatal care is lacking in most communities. Education on hygiene and common chronic illnesses is of the greatest importance for sustainability. Following clinic, we will work as a team to break down the venue, inventory, and pack out remaining supplies to be donated or shipped back to the U.S.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
Depart for Home
You will have one final breakfast with the team before parting ways with your teammates. You may schedule your flight for any time you wish. Thank you for your service!
Meals: Breakfast,
Your Journey
Clinic Photos
Extension Photos
Extensions
Since you’re already venturing across the globe, consider extending your stay by a few days to explore the vibrant beauty of Jamaica on an exclusive trip extension provided by our partner, Worldwide Navigators. Discover lush rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls like Dunn’s River Falls, the historic streets of Kingston, and world-famous beaches in Negril and Montego Bay. You can even visit the Blue Mountains or explore hidden cultural gems off the beaten path. Contact Contact Worldwide Navigators to help you plan the perfect Jamaican getaway.
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Jamaica island, Montego Bay
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Caribbean town - Port Antonio, Jamaica
Minimum Donation
Your generous donation of $2000 will go toward the ongoing global relief to care for the underserved and vulnerable people of this community. As a member of this medical mission team, you will elevate the long-term impact of sustainable, capacity-building efforts that improve the health, wellness, and quality of life of those most in need. A small portion of your donation includes:
- Clinic supplies and medications for patients
- Clinic participation
- Transportation, accommodations, and meals as outlined in the itinerary
Donation Payment Deadlines
$1800 due by May 12, 2025
$2000 due by July 13, 2025
Early Bird Savings Opportunity
To be eligible, the participant must upload ALL your required documents and forms, sign their liability form and make your 50% donation including your $35 application fee by May 12, 2025. This savings opportunity does not apply to disaster relief missions.
Featured Enhancements
**To purchase any of the above Featured Enhancements for your mission, please contact our office at office@imrus.org or call at (970) 635-0110.
Your Donation to IMR for Your Mission Cost Includes:
All group costs from the time you arrive at the team meeting point in country until you separate from the team or when the team arrives at the departure airport, including:
- Transportation
- Lodging (except for Colorado missions, disaster missions, or as otherwise mentioned in the trip itinerary)
- Costs associated with the clinic
- Food
- Tips for services provided to the IMR team
- All logistics, including translation services and security as needed
Additional Costs That You Are Responsible For:
All group costs from the time you arrive at the team meeting point in country until you separate from the team or when the team arrives at the departure airport, including:
- International and Domestic flights to the country.
- Passport fees, visa fees, and transit fees, including baggage or overnight accommodations/meals while in transit
- Required or recommended insurance
- Vaccinations and medications common for travel
- Spending money for souvenirs and personal purchases
- Required or desired mission supplies, personal equipment, or small gifts for the special people you meet
- Any lodging, meals, and transportation outside of the scheduled team mission, payable at the time of service to the local vendor
- COVID-related fees such as testing, vaccinations, and quarantines as required by in-country arrival/departure or USA arrival/departure
- Each team member is responsible for carrying medical supplies for the deployment. All fees associated with transport are the responsibility of the volunteer.
Financial FAQs
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