Paraguay

The Need

The communities in rural areas in Paraguay face significant healthcare challenges due to limited access to medical services and resources. High rates of preventable and infectious diseases, including respiratory infections, gastrointestinal illnesses, and vector-borne diseases such as dengue, Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis, are prevalent. Limited access to clean water and sanitation contributes to parasitic infections and other health problems, while inadequate nutrition and dental care remain widespread, especially among children and the elderly.

Vector-borne diseases are a major concern in these communities, with seasonal outbreaks of dengue and the ongoing threat of Chagas disease posing serious health risks. Many families lack essential knowledge about disease prevention, vector control, and healthy practices, which perpetuates cycles of illness and poor health outcomes.

These healthcare disparities underscore the urgent need for skilled medical professionals and volunteers to provide care, education, and support in the rural areas of Paraguay. Your expertise and dedication can make a meaningful impact, improving the quality of life and fostering healthier communities where access to medical resources is limited.

Our Work

For the very first time, IMR is bringing its mission to Paraguay! This historic step marks an exciting new chapter as IMR partners with local communities in The Chaco to provide vital health education, medical treatments, supplies, and equipment. Volunteers will play a key role in supporting sustainable clinic operations and addressing urgent healthcare needs, making a meaningful and lasting impact in communities experiencing limited access to medical care.

Our missions are meticulously planned to align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) 3, 6, and 17, ensuring measurable outcomes that foster long-term health improvements.

Aligned with UNSDG 3: Good Health & Wellbeing, IMR collaborates closely with local partners to deliver hands-on care, enhance workforce density, and develop a new generation of healthcare and public health leaders. By working side-by-side with local healthcare professionals, we provide immediate care and contribute to the growth and resilience of local health systems.

Our commitment to UNSDG 6: Clean Water & Sanitation is evident in our efforts to empower communities with access to safe drinking water. We install water filtration systems, educate on hydration and hygiene, and support local initiatives to improve water quality, ensuring healthier, more resilient communities.

In line with UNSDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, IMR works exclusively through formal invitations from local hosts, ensuring our missions address the most pressing needs. We believe in the power of collaboration and respect the guidance of our local partners to provide the most effective medical and dental care, as well as essential health education.

Join us in continuing this vital work as we build healthier, stronger communities in Paraguay and beyond!

This Mission

As an IMR volunteer, you will be at the forefront of delivering essential medical care to underserved communities in The Chacos. These communities face significant healthcare challenges, and your involvement is critical in addressing their diverse medical needs. Whether you are a doctor, nurse, dentist, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional, your skills will make a profound impact on the lives of those with limited access to care. Non-medical volunteers, including families and friends, play a crucial role in the clinic setting, providing patient support, logistics, and health education—contributions that are vital to the overall success of the mission.

Our multidisciplinary team will address a wide range of health issues, from chronic illnesses like hypertension and diabetes to acute conditions such as infections and injuries. We will also provide urgent dental and vision care and deliver health education on topics such as disease prevention, nutrition, hygiene, and vector control. This mission is not just about treating patients during our visit; it’s about creating a sustainable impact that empowers these communities long after our team has left.

Returning regularly to the region ensures ongoing support and continuity of care. We build long-term relationships and provide regular follow-up services, continuous medical supplies, continued education and training, contributing to a sustainable improvement in health outcomes. Your participation in this mission is more than just a one-time effort; it’s a vital part of a long-term commitment to creating lasting change in the health and well-being of the people of Paraguay. Join us and be a part of this transformative journey, knowing that your service will contribute to a healthier future for these communities.

Lodging/Transportation

During your time in Paraguay, you will stay in charming lodging with basic and clean amenities after your days of service. 

Highlights

A highlight of this trip is working with local Paraguayan communities, known for their resilience, warmth, and welcoming spirit. Residents often come to the clinic with health concerns tied to daily life, including vector-borne diseases, chronic illnesses, and nutritional or dental challenges. Your care and expertise will be truly valued, making a meaningful difference in their lives.

Beyond the clinical work, your time in Paraguay offers the chance to connect deeply with the country’s vibrant culture. From bustling markets and colorful festivals to traditional cuisine and local crafts, this mission combines professional service with personal growth, leaving a lasting legacy of health and hope.

Outside the clinic, the Chaco region offers a unique mix of cultural and natural experiences. Explore remote towns and Indigenous communities, visit local markets to discover traditional crafts, or experience the vast, rugged landscapes of this semi-arid wilderness. Every encounter provides an opportunity to connect with the resilient people, distinctive cultures, and remarkable ecosystems of the Paraguayan Chaco, making your mission both impactful and unforgettable.

Extend Your Stay

Since you are already venturing across the globe, have you considered extending your stay by a few days to explore some of Paraguay’s top attractions? IMR offers an exclusive extensions to its volunteers provided by our partner, Worldwide Navigators.

Worldwide Navigators provides a unique opportunity to continue your trip, explore off the beaten path, and experience more of Paraguay’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty.

Highlights include:

Asunción City Tour
Spend a day exploring Paraguay’s vibrant capital. Wander through Plaza de los Héroes, admire the colonial architecture of Palacio de los López, and immerse yourself in the local markets full of crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Take time to savor traditional Paraguayan dishes such as sopa paraguaya, chipa, and mbeju, and enjoy the city’s lively café culture.

Areguá and Luque
Discover charming towns just outside Asunción. Visit Areguá, known for its art galleries, colorful streets, and strawberry farms, or head to Luque, the birthplace of Paraguay’s famous hand-crafted musical instruments. These towns offer a glimpse into local life and provide countless photo opportunities.

Natural Escapes
For nature enthusiasts, experience the scenic beauty of Ñacunday Falls or Ybycuí National Park, where you can hike trails, enjoy waterfalls, and spot unique Paraguayan wildlife. Take a peaceful day along the Paraná River, perfect for birdwatching or a relaxing boat tour.

For a truly unforgettable adventure, let Worldwide Navigators design a customized excursion just for you! Whether you want to explore Asunción, visit charming towns, or immerse yourself in Paraguay’s natural wonders, our team will handle every detail.

Contact our partner, Worldwide Navigators for more information on extending your stay.

Itinerary at a Glance