Thanks to the increasing ability to use technology even in places with limited resources, the focus of Christian medical missions has shifted toward greater collaboration and strengthening existing local institutions.

This change has given rise to a growing need for medical missionaries with a diverse range of specialties, engaging not only in healthcare but also in teaching, discipling, and research, while embracing a holistic approach that encompasses preventive, curative, and palliative care.

Some of these specialties include those that are sometimes considered “overlooked” or “challenging”, yet often play a crucial role in serving the most vulnerable members of the community.

If you’re considering medical missions, here are a few unique opportunities to use your skills around the world:

Long-Term Opportunities:

Short-Term Opportunities:

Short-term team trips (1-2 weeks)

Summer Internships (8 weeks)

Vocational Internships (2-11 months)

Apprenticeships (18 months to two years)

Choosing the Right Organization:

As you explore these opportunities and others, finding the right organization is just as important as the specialty you choose to pursue. Look for an organization that shares your theological and missional values, and one that truly gets what medical missionaries need, including member care support.

Consider attending conferences like GMHC, where you can engage with a multitude of agencies, each with its own unique approach and vision. These gatherings provide the perfect opportunity to establish personal connections with real people within these organizations, gaining valuable insights and forging meaningful relationships.

As you narrow down your choices, seek out personal connections with missionaries already serving in a capacity that aligns with your interests within your chosen agency. Their firsthand experiences and guidance can offer invaluable perspectives, ensuring that your journey into medical missions is not only fulfilling but also impactful.

In the end, the choice of the right organization can make all the difference in your medical mission journey. It’s a decision that, when made thoughtfully and prayerfully, can lead to a lifetime of meaningful service and transformational impact in the lives of those you are called to serve.

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Learn more about Serge’s medical missions work today.