Medical Expeditions International

Ecuadorian Andes Expedition

What: Medex International is recruiting physicians, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, veterinarians and other medical professionals who are interested in volunteering with us in the Andean region of Ecuador in 2009.

Where: Candelaria is a small town located in the province of Chimborazo, in the center of the Ecuadorian Andes, at an elevation of 10,800 feet. It is located roughly 100 miles south of Quito. It lies south of Tungurahua Volcano, an active volcano that has been sending ash up into the atmosphere. Home to challenging peaks and towering volcanoes such as Chimborazo (Ecuador's highest peak), the province of Chimborazo is rich in traditions and natural beauty, with many lakes and beautiful landscapes.

Why: The villagers are in need of basic health care, veterinary services and dentistry. There is only sporadic medical care and virtually no veterinary care. Candelaria is an agricultural community with many horses, pigs, cattle, sheep, and dogs. We began our work in Candelaria in the the Fall of 2004 and hope to continue bringing medical and veterinary services annually.

Candelaria is a parish formed by close to 120 families, or roughly 500 people, scattered over an area of a few square kilometers. The parish is formed by indigenous and mestizo families, whose main activity is agriculture and cattle ranching. The parish has a water system that provides water to its population, as well as electricity. Candelaria has a small medical center, though it has been staffed only sporadically. Most often, the people of Candelaria must go to the nearby town of Penipe, or to the capital of the province, Riobamba, for medical attention. The most common medical problems are joint and musculoskeletal pain and injuries, skin infections, parasites and gastritis. There is no veterinary care available and often the villagers castrate their animals with no anesthesia. We are committed to providing more humane animal care and the villagers are very grateful for our services.

We will fly into Quito and drive overland to Candelaria, a six-hour drive, where we'll provide medical and dental services for three days. After the medical phase of our mission, we'll spend two nights at Estrella del Chimborazo, a lovely and secluded inn at the base of Chimborazo, Ecuador's hikest peak. We'll then travel back to Quito to explore the sights of this beautiful city.

Costs to cover expenses: $1855. This includes medical supplies, lodging, transportation, hiking, local guides, tips and all meals. Please note: this price does not include airfare from the US.

Trip Leader: Rachel Friday

Please note that on this trip we will be working and trekking at elevations up to 15,000 feet, and so you must be in good physical condition. MEI will send a detailed itinerary to those who are interested in participating. Please fill out online application or contact us at info@medexinternational.org or call us at 404-815-7044 for more information.