Medical Missions
The healthcare needs in the Dominican Republic are significant—especially in rural communities. With fewer than two physicians per 1,000 people, access to care is limited, and the system often struggles to serve the most vulnerable, including women, adolescents, and young children. Nearly half the population lives below the poverty line, placing even basic medical care out of reach for many families.
Handfuls of Hope partners with doctors, nurses, dentists, hygienists, opticians, and other medical professionals to bring compassionate, quality care to underserved communities through short-term medical mission trips. Our teams serve alongside local healthcare providers who generously volunteer their time, creating a collaborative and sustainable impact.
Each team brings essential supplies—medications, vitamins, bandages, eyeglasses, and more—while also purchasing additional resources locally as needed.
We intentionally partner with local churches, who host our clinics and help spread the word throughout the community. It’s not uncommon for our team to arrive early in the morning to find hundreds already waiting patiently for care. Church volunteers play a vital role—helping register patients, assess needs, and maintain order throughout the day.
In just a few days, hundreds—sometimes thousands—of men, women, and children receive care. For those unable to travel, smaller teams go directly into homes to ensure no one is overlooked. Most trips last 3–5 days on-site, making a meaningful and immediate difference.
Who Should Go?
We are looking for individuals with a heart to serve.
While we actively seek medical professionals—such as physicians, nurses, dentists, and hygienists—you don’t need medical training to make an impact. Teachers, pastors, business professionals, tradespeople, students, parents—anyone willing to serve and support the mission is welcome.
What Is the Trip Like?
A typical trip lasts about 5 days and includes a team of 15–25 participants. Team members stay together in nearby hotel/villa accommodations, and the trip fee covers lodging, meals, airfare, in-country transportation, and insurance.
It’s a full and rewarding week. We work diligently to set up clinics, organize supplies, and care for the steady flow of patients. Each day is filled with meaningful interactions—meeting both physical and spiritual needs.
The experience also includes time for worship, connection with the local church, and moments to rest and reflect. While the work is demanding, the impact is lasting—and often life-changing.
How do I sign up?
Refer to the list of upcoming mission trips in the upper right corner of this screen. Click each entry for more information, then click the "Sign Up for a Trip" button to access the application form.
Refund Policy
For our Refund Policy, click here.