Medical Volunteer International (MVI) is a brand new Chinese international medical volunteer organization, which consists of licensed clinicians from various countries. MVI needs passionate members to support its mission.

What kind of organization is the Medical Volunteers International (MVI)?

Medical Volunteers International (MVI) is an international volunteer organization based in the United States. It is non-profit, non-religious, and non-political. MVI is for Chinese physicians around the world, and also welcomes physicians of other ethnicities to jointly promote and develop international medical volunteering.

What is the mission of Medical Volunteers International (MVI)?

MVI hopes to provide information about international medical volunteering for all Chinese physicians who are interested in participating in these activities, and to promote the exchange and sharing of individual experiences. MVI also hopes to help its members find suitable projects through communication and connection with other international medical volunteer organizations, as well as form projects of its own initiation. MVI has started a couple of mission projects since 2017 to help people in urgent need of medical treatments, and to reduce morbidities and mortalities in Haiti and Cambodia.

What are the requirements to join MVI?

MVI is mainly composed of practicing physicians. Regular (Full) members must be clinicians with active licenses from their practicing countries. Affiliate (Associate) members are nonmedical personnel focusing on administrative work for the organization.

For those who would like to join, MVI asks you to provide a brief introduction of yourself. After verification of credentials, membership will be granted.

What can I do for MVI?

As a member of MVI, you are encouraged to promote MVI’s mission and actively participate in MVI organized activities. Because of personal situations, not all members are able to join MVI projects every year. MVI encourages its members to participate in at least one of its projects every few years.

MVI welcomes any form of donation from its members to help fundraising. Your talents and expertise, such as writing and leadership skills, are vital for the growth of the organization.

What areas does MVI serve?

MVI’s initial focus is in countries and regions where medical resources are limited. MVI may consider starting off with joining other international medical volunteer organizations and their projects. In 2017, MVI initiated its own projects in areas such as Latin America (Haiti) and Asia (Cambodia). These projects include providing free medical treatments, medical education, and training.

What kind of specialties does MVI need?

MVI needs clinicians in various specialties, including family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, surgery, etc.

How long does a project last？

The duration of each mission trip/project varies depending on its nature and destination(s). They will usually last 1 week; however some projects can be a few times a year.

What is the process to participate in MVI missions or projects?

Most physicians need to arrange for their schedules ahead of time, therefore, we will notify our members at least six months prior about upcoming missions and projects, including the detailed process, cost of the trip, necessary documents (i.e. Visa), temporary permit to practice medicine in the local country, vaccination, tickets and hotel booking, common medications, clothes, and other items necessary for the trip. We will help to answer any questions members may have.

If you are not able to participate in MVI mission trips or projects, you can still be involved in other activities to support MVI by becoming an affiliate member.

Is MVI right for you?

Before you decide to participate in an MVI mission trip, you should consider your decision thoroughly, as this type of service may not be suitable for everyone. In addition to the cost of the trip, you should consider if you are prepared for overseas journey and potential harsh environment. You will most likely live with a group of strangers in an unfamiliar environment for a couple of weeks. The living conditions can be very poor and limited. You may have only cold showers or not be able to take a shower for days. Mosquito bites are common. Food can be very different from what you are used to, and people may get gastroenteritis. Sleep deprivation and insomnia are also common. You may need to work long hours with limited supplies and face culture differences and language barriers. There may be accidents too. Would you be able to overcome these difficulties and still focus on your work? Will long distance travel and jet lag affect you after you return? We encourage you to discuss with your family members to have their support before you make a decision.

Is there an age limit to participate MVI?

No, there is no age limit.

What is the cost to participate MVI mission trips?

MVI is making great effort in fundraising and accepting donations. Part of the fund is used for logistics; the rest will be used to purchase medications, supplies, and equipment for MVI mission trips/projects. Donations and strong support from all MVI members are especially important at the early stage of the organization.

The expense for international medical volunteer is high and it varies depending on the destination of the service. It includes self-paid travel expense (international flights) and local accommodation. MVI will help the medical team obtain medications and supplies required for the mission trip through donations and fundraising.

Is donation to MVI tax deductible?

Yes. MVI is a nonprofit organization with 501 C3 tax exemption. Donations to MVI are tax deductible.