A letter to those interested in participating in a
medical missions to Guatemala...
Greetings in our Lord Jesus Christ!
A few years back, I made a mission trip to a town high up in the mountains of
Guatemala where the morning air is crisp, the mountains majestically peer out from behind the clouds and where the blue waters of Lake Atitlan all speak of God’s creation.
But here, the people - a gentle and kind people - live in poverty. The houses are roughly
assembled and provide little cover from the drenching downpours of the rainy season.
The floors are mostly of bare earth and all cooking is done on an open indoor fire which
accounts for the serious burns children sustain when they fall into it.
Early in my tenure working for the Diocese of Charleston SC, I began thinking
how the good people of our diocese could serve the poor – both at home and afar - since
poverty has no geographical boundaries. I remembered my visit to Guatemala, the
poverty of the people there and how limited the medical services available to them was.
And so the idea of a medical mission was born.
A small group of us went on a fact finding trip in October of 2006 and, upon return, began planning for our first medical mission. The word was sent via parish
bulletins and the diocesan newspaper that we were looking for partners in our missionary work and people from all over the diocese—just like yourself—responded: “I’ve always wanted to go on a mission trip.”
And now, perhaps, the time has come for you to respond to Christ’s call.
“Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the
foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you
gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you
cared for me, in prison and you visited me. Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of
Mt 25: 34-40
these least brothers of
mine, you did for me.”
Yours in Christ,
Deacon Ed Peitler
Deacon Ed surrounded by children of San Pedro LaLaguna
Guatemala who benefit from our Medical Mission.
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Pertinent Information for Medical Missioners
The purpose of the medical
mission is to provide basic heath care
to the people of Guatemala—either
at the mission site of San Pedro LaLaguna to the West of Guatemala.
We will be working alongside religious Sisters, priests and members of
the village who will assist us as health
collaborators and translators. The
clinic at San Pedro is where the Diocese of Charleston has funded an additional two floors to an existing onestorey building that was there when
we began our mission trips. Plans are
to offer surgical procedures on-site as our equipment and volunteers permit. At this time, our
medical missions are eight days in duration with two of the days for travel, one day for touring
the surrounding areas and five days of medical care. Local collaborators who work with the
parish at San Pedro will meet us at the airport and transport us to the mission site. Accommodations and meals are provided by our parish collaborators.
The number of participants on our mission trips varies, depending on the response we
get. We must have at least three MDs, double that number of nurses, and between four to six
individuals fluent in Spanish before we can schedule a trip. We also welcome nurse practitioners, pharmacists, dentists and any others who have some medical expertise. People often ask
if they can participate even if they are a non-medical person or cannot speak Spanish. The answer is yes! We can use everyone who wants to come.
The Diocese of Charleston Medical Mission is a faith ministry. What this means is that
first, our purpose is one of evangelization. We bring the Gospel message of Jesus Christ with
us in our work of charity on behalf of the poor. In this way, we hope that we, too, will be
evangelized.. Second, without prayer, we are tempted to think that we can do this work without God’s help. Therefore we ask that each participant spend time with us in prayer each
morning and evening. Third, as a work of charity, there are no budgeted funds from the diocese to underwrite expenses. We rely solely upon the generosity of participants and donors.
Each team member is responsible to raise the funds for his or her participation which means
airfare and a donation toward meals and lodging for the week. This does not mean that the
financial burden is carried by you alone. Ask others to help with this and to share with you in
this ministry.
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The cost for participation in the medical mission includes air fare from South Carolina
to Guatemala City. Currently, airfare runs about $650 round trip. We have been trying to fly
directly out of Atlanta via Delta Airlines because of the reduced cost of not having to take a
connecting flight. We have found that flying from various locations around the State runs the
risk of missing the connecting flight from Atlanta which has only one fight per day. We encourage participants to carpool to Atlanta and we provide the names and phone numbers of
all participating in order for everyone to work on these arrangements. Our goal is always to
arrive in Guatemala City at the same time so that our local mission partners who will be providing us transportation only have to make one trip.
We recommend that you bring a small amount of spending money to purchase local
handcrafted goods sold
by the people in the village, in addition to what
you will contribute toward your room and
board ($25-50/day is suggested).
Your expenses
constitute a charitable
donation to assist in the
work of the Catholic
Church in the Diocese of
Charleston. You will be
informed of the cost of
the airline ticket and you
should make your check
payable to “Diocese of Charleston.” This amount is likely to be tax deductible. Once we
have full payment for all airline tickets, we then go ahead and purchase our tickets which are
non-refundable.
Besides covering your own expenses, the mission relies heavily on participants procuring a supply of medications commonly dispensed to individuals being treated at our mission
sites. We encourage you to bring along those medications listed on the accompanying sheet.
These medications can be placed in a duffel bag which will be supplied to you for transport to
the airport. The airlines are now allowing only one free check-in bag per flight. You should
use a carry-on for your personal items during the trip, or pay for a second check-in bag for
your extra items. Pharmacist and pharmaceutical reps are usually helpful in providing some
free medication. If you obtain monetary donations from supporters back home, please send
them here to Charleston where we can use it to purchase medications that will be needed.
“Test Me now in this,” says the Lord of hosts, “if I will not open for you the windows of heaven,
and pour out for you a blessing until there is no more need.”
Malachi 3:10
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Practical Notes
□
San Pedro is at an elevation of 5200 feet, about eighty miles west of Guatemala City. The days
are warm, not hot, running about 75-80 degrees. You can get a sunburn so those of you with sensitive
skin, may want to take along sun screen. Nights, including late afternoon and early morning are cool,
sometimes going down to about 60 degrees (45-50 degrees in December and January). There are two
seasons in San Pedro—the wet and the dry. During the dry season it rains maybe once a month and in
the wet season, the mornings are usually bright and sunny and the rains come in during the afternoon
and sometimes evenings.
□
Clothing: Warm clothing should be chosen for warmth at night and for comfort during the day. Dress
-up only for travel and church. A light jacket or sweatshirt is all that is needed. Shoes should be comfortable for walking. Remember what you wear should be acceptable attire in the culture. Women - no
short-shorts (knee length shorts, jeans, and pants are okay); no spaghetti strap or halter tops /
Guys– shirts are required and please button them unless you have a t-shirt under them! Tshirts and jeans are acceptable for either sex. Females may want a dress for church on Sunday. A
compact poncho for rainy days is advisable. For daytime wear at the clinic, a set of hospital scrubs is
recommended.
□
Money: The Guatemalan “Quetzal” used to be equal to a dollar. This is no longer the case. The exchange rate may vary but, at present, it should be about 7.5 quetzals to one dollar. Money can be
changed at the airport although local banks can change money as well. Remember the rule of thumb for
travelers is: “Take half as many clothes as you expect to need, and twice as much money.” You
can always carry the money home if you don’t spend it. You will need $3.00 as a special exit tax when
you leave Guatemala. This you will pay when you check into the airport before you leave.
□
Remember, you must have a valid passport. Check to make sure it will not expire while we are
away; you won’t be allowed out of the country otherwise. Most visitors are only eligible for a tourist
visa and this you will fill out on the plane en route to Guatemala. The passport should be carried in a
secure place on your person such as a money belt or in your purse or wallet. It should never be packed in
your luggage and should always be available to you. You should carry a photocopy of the first inside page
of your passport in your luggage in case you misplace your passport. Also, leave a copy of the passport at
home with family or friends so that they can fax a copy in case you need one. This will be very helpful in
securing another one from the embassy. Hopefully this won’t happen!
□
Luggage: You are each allowed one piece of free check-in luggage which we will need to transport
medications. We ask that you pack only ONE carry-on bag for your personal items. Please make sure
that your carry–on has no sharp items (scissors, etc) and that you carry with you only liquids in 3 oz containers that are enclosed in a plastic, see-through bag. This will expedite your getting through security.
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□
Electricity is the same there as here. If you can do without appliances, like hair-dryers, please do so.
Bring a small flashlight along just in case the power goes out at night.
□
Sickness: Many people who travel experience some stomach discomfort. This is nothing to worry
about. However, sometimes a more serious stomach disorder happens. If this happens, tell one of the
physicians to have it checked. Don’t try to get rid of these stomach upsets by yourself. Immodium
is very useful for diarrhea and stomach ailments—but tell one of our doctors if your are feeling ill (do not
wait until you are feeling horrible). The Diocese of Charleston purchases medical insurance for all missionaries that covers hospitalization and transport out of the country if necessary but we need a record of
your own health care coverage as well.
□
Vaccinations: The only shots we recommend are 1) an up–to-date tetanus shot and 2) hepatitis shot,
especially the one for contaminated blood. It is not necessary to take malaria medication as we will not be
in a coastal region. There have been no reported cases of diphtheria in the area for several years. You
must drink bottled water at all times. Let me repeat...you must drink bottled water at all times! Consult
your own physician about what hepatitis vaccines are recommended.
□
Food & Water: You may eat food served in the parish without fear, as well as in hotels, or any decent
restaurant. NEVER eat from food vendors on the street. NEVER drink water from the tap. The parish
will furnish bottled water that is safe to drink or you can re-fill your water container multiple times during
the day. Remember to use bottled water even to brush your teeth!
□
Hiking: Some people are tempted to take strenuous walks, like hiking up the volcano. Hiking alone is
dangerous in a strange country and if you fall and get hurt, no one would know where to begin to find
you. This could have the effect of undermining the entire mission. If you do want to go off for a hike,
discuss it with Deacon Ed first and perhaps a group hike could be organized.
□
There is little organized night life in San Pedro. Often groups of medical missionaries go out to one
of the local watering holes for the evening of fellowship and relaxation. Please be back in your hotel /
housing area by 10:30 PM. Do not go down by the lake shore at night. You are asked to go out in the
evening only in small groups and you are asked to tell someone who is not going with you where you will
be. As you are making a last impression on the local people of the town, avoid drinking too much at local
bars. Please do NOT bring DVD players, headsets for music as they can distract you from becoming
part of the group.
□
It is neither the custom nor is it safe in Guatemala for women to walk alone at night. Go in
groups! Do not wear expensive jewelry—this could make you the object of a robbery and at the very
least is not sensitive to the poverty of the region.
□
Animals: As much as you may like some of the dogs wandering around, please do not pet them. Some
have mange which can give you scabies.
□
Purchasing Items: It is important to keep in mind that we will be in small towns. Many shops line the
streets—stores are out of the front of people’s houses. Purchasing items locally helps the economy. Living with the people logically includes shopping with them. One can easily purchase the following items:
clothing, toiletries (deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, soap, mouthwash, pharmaceuticals,
razors, shaving cream), food, candy, paper, office supplies, miscellaneous (candles, batteries, flashlights,
film, radios, kitchen wares, clocks, watches, pottery, detergent, cleaning supplies, décor.)
□
Relax and smile a lot. Guatemalans are proud of their country. The people are proud of their towns.
Show them that you like them and they will like you. And when they like you, they like you a lot!
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Tips on how to enjoy your mission experience
Much of the pleasure of any trip derives from our own attitude. If we expect things to
be exactly as in the United States we will have a less than optimal experience. Remember
that you will be visiting a working parish in a poor community in a country that is not yet
fully developed as our own. Be sensitive to a culture and customs that are different. Remember we are guests in their country and culture. Do not expect to find primitive tribes. These
people, whether Indian or European, have a culture as old or older than our own. Neither
expect to find any widespread malnutrition.
The Purpose of your trip should be:
1. To become acquainted with the
people, culture, and problems of
what is called “the Third World,”
the underdeveloped countries that
make up most of the world. The
people of Guatemala are mostly of
Indian ancestry, but about 40% of
the population is “Latino,” that is,
of Spanish or other European or
African descent.
The culture is heavily Spanish influenced. The official language is
Spanish. However, the old Indian (Mayan) culture is still wide-spread and many people
speak only the Indian dialect. That is why we must also use local translators.
The problems of all underdeveloped countries are the problems of Guatemala. Poverty is
a way of life and influences every aspect of life. It is not only the cause of sickness and
death but destroys self respect and self-reliance so that progress becomes difficult if not
impossible.
2. To see what has been done and what can be done to help with the health care needs
of the people. Our Guatemalan partners are involved with many programs.
3. To have fun; to enjoy a rich human experience with the people and with one another..
4. And most importantly...to grow spiritually in our relationship to Jesus Christ and to
give witness to Christ in all our interactions with each other and with the Guatemalan people. In other words we are there to proclaim the Gospel through our presence and works
of charity.
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Suggested Pharmacy Needs for San Pedro Medical Mission
Please obtain as many of these as you can to bring with you.
Antibiotic
□ Amoxicillin 250 mg tabs
□ Amoxicillin 125 mg /5cc suspension
□ Amoxicillin suspension 250 mg/5 cc
suspension
□ Amoxicillin/clavulanate 500/125mg
tabs/caps/suspension
□ Doxycycline 100 mg cap
□ Erythromycin 250 mg or 333 mg tabs
□ Erythromycin suspension
□ Erythromycin base 250 mg tab
□ Erythromycin ophth oint
□ Penicillin V 250 mg tab
□ Sulfacetamatide 10%
□ Septra/Bactrim/TMP-SMX
□ tablets SS (400/80mg)
□ tablets DS (800/160mg)
□ liquid 200, 40mg/5ml
□ Triple antibiotic ointment
0.9 gram pkt
□ Triple antibiotic ointment 1oz. tube
Antihypertensive
□ Amlodipine 5mg tabs
□ Atenolol 50 mg tabs (or Metoprolol)
□ HCTZ 25 mg tabs
□ Lisinopril 5 mg tabs (or Enalapril)
Diuretic
□ Furosemide 20 mg tabs
Pain Relief
□ Acetaminophen 325 mg tabs
□ Aspirin 325 mg tab
□ Ibuprofen ( Motrin , Advil, etc)
□
tabs, caplets, liquid, children’s
liquid, infant drops
(100mg, 200mg, 400mg)
□ Ibuprofen pediatric suspension
□ Acetaminophen (Tylenol, APAP,
Panadol, etc)
tabs/caplets
(250 mg, 325 mg, 500mg)
□
children’s chewable, liquid,
children’s drops,
□
infant drops,
XR extended release,
□
pediatric suspension
Stool Softener
□ Docusate 100 mg cap
Vitamins
□ Infant drops
□ Child w/Iron
□ Children’s chewable
□ Adult (one a day type)
□ Adult w/Iron
□ Prenatal
□ Multivitamin
Diabetics
□ Glipizide 5mg tabs
(or Glibenclamida)
□ Metformin 500 mg tabs
Anti Ulcer
□ Omerprazole 20mg tabs
(or Pantoprazole)
□ Ranitidine 150mg tabs
Anti Viral
□ Acyclovir 200mg cap
Other
□ Hydrocortisone cream
□ Nystatin cream, ointment
Bromachodia
□ Albuterol - Inhaler (2007) 40/500
- Syrup (12/2004)
Anti Inffective
□ Azithromycin oral suspension
“Zostrix” (200mg/5ml)
□ tablets “Zithromax” (600mg)
□ Cephalexin 250 mg cap
□ Ciprofloxacin 500 mg
Cipro Otic [07/2004]
“Pediotic”, Corticosporin
□ Clotrimazole
□ Fluconazole 100 mg tab
□ Fluconazole (200mg) [2005]
“Diflucan”
□ Ketocanazole 200mg [2005]
□ Nitrofurantoin 50 mg cap
Sulfon Amides
□ Co-trimoxazole 400mg/80 mg tab
□ Sukfadiazine 500 mg tab
Anti Convulsant
□ Dilantin
Anti Tuberculotic
□ Ethambutol 100mg tab
□ Pyrazinamide 500 mg tab
Expectorant
□ Guaifensin 100mg/5ml syrup
Anti Diarrheal
□ Loperamide 2 mg cap
Laxative
□ Senna 8.6 mg tab
Anti paracitic
□ Mebendazole tablets
“Vermox” (100mg) lots
□ Albendazole
Medical Equipment and Supplies:
□ Urine dip sticks
□ Pregnancy tests
□ Gloves, disposable (non-sterile),
size small or medium
□ Wrist splints
□ Finger splints
□ Scalpel blades (#10/11/20)
□ Forceps, thumb with teeth
□ Forceps, thumb without teeth
□ Clamps, Kelly straight
□ Clamps, Kelly curved
□ Clamps, mosquito curved
□ Clamps, haemostatic
□ Clamps, mayo
□ Needle Drivers
□ Scissors, large bandage
□ Gauze (4X4)
□ Gauze, roll 3”
□ Suture
□ Syringes, 3cc/5cc/10cc
□ Syringe needles, 22/25/27 gauges
□ Angiocaths 24 gauge
□ IV administration tubing,
micro dropper
□ Stethoscopes
□ Sphygmomanometers
□ Digital thermometer
with disposable covers
□ Doppler, handheld (Harris)
□ Humidifier, table top size
□ Otoscopes
□ All supplies related to reparative
dental procedures
Anti Inplammatory
□ Metronidazole/ Flagyl
□
tablets, liquid, oral suspension/
250 mg, 500mg
□ Triamcinolone 0.1% cream
15 grams
□ Triamcinolone 0.1% cream 16 oz.
□ Triamcinolone 0.1% ointment
15 grams
□ Triamcinolone 0.1% ointment
16 oz.
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MORE WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO KNOW ABOUT
YOUR MEDICAL MISSION TO GUATEMALA
(Please leave a copy of the contact information contained herein with whomever you identified as your
responsible person back here in the States. You should also leave flight details with them as well)
Brief History
The story of the indigenous people of Mayan ancestry goes back 20,000 years. The early hunter-gatherers gradually
developed a sophisticated system of agriculture. Increased food production enabled them to develop a complex
civilization. After 300 years as a colony of Spain, Guatemala achieved its independence in 1821. Although technically free, the Mayans had little access to their land and were basically serfs. These people have also suffered much.
They have endured centuries of slavery, then serfdom, poverty, and relentless discrimination. Recently, a 36-year
civil war left 200,000 dead or disappeared, finally ending with peace accords in 1996. The war was basically between the indigenous peasants and the government. The people were driven off their land. Whole villages were
exterminated. Mayans were killed in what amounted to a mass genocide. One million were made homeless, and
untold thousands disappeared. Although there is now peace, the war has left scars.
Guatemala is a land of awesome beauty, with blue lakes rimmed by majestic volcanic peaks, and ruins that are incredible remnants of the prehistoric and colonial past. The Mayans make up over 50% of the population and have
maintained their language, their dress, and to an extent, their ancestral way of life.
Specifics for Medical Teams:
Do not bring expired medicines. They can cause you many problems trying to get through customs.
Keep in mind that “quality of care” is preferred to “quantity of care”. We realize that it is hard to turn people
away, and a higher number of patients makes it feel like you did more. The time and attention is what the people
will remember that you gave them!
Dentists who are coming should know that in many cases, electricity can be provided at the sites to do fillings or
more advanced work. This gives an option besides just pulling teeth. We have purchased dental equipment which
will be available to help repair teeth instead of extracting them.
Participants are asked to bring what medicines, equipment and supplies that they can acquire to supplement what
medications we purchase. As a rule, we do not give out more than 30 days of medicines or for more than the patients’ immediate needs. Do not try to medicate entire families without proper individual examinations.
Health Care Education
We ask that medical persons be prepared to serve as health care educators within the local community they work nutrition, disease prevention, basic first aid, pre-natal care and more.
Clinic Facilities
You will be practicing “frontier medicine” here. You might work in an actual clinic building or in some villages in a
rural church or school, and there will generally be electricity. There may even be water, but most likely it is down
the hall or around the corner (use liquid hand sanitizers liberally).
In general, you will want to bring:
 your personal diagnostic equipment
 stethoscope, otoscope, ophthalmascope, penlight and a head lamp (for vaginal examinations) come
in handy.
NOTE: Children’s and pre-natal vitamins (with folic acid) are especially needed.
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Incidence of intestinal worms is +50% in children in rural areas, and probably nearly as common in adults.
Become A Flex-Pert! (an expert in the art of flexibility)
It is important to be flexible & prepared for variations in the team’s schedule and tasks.
 Expect the unexpected.
 Expect to be informed of things at the last minute, and be tolerant of feeling that you don’t know exactly what
is going on.
 Be patient, cooperative and appreciative. Cultivate a good sense of humor!
Conditions and preparations for projects are more difficult in Guatemala than in the USA. Materials and methods
may not be what you are used to. Materials are not always available. Don’t let frustration interfere with the relationships that you are building. Even when you are curing the sick and feeding the hungry, do not become too goal
oriented. Realize that sometimes the best ministry is to take time to talk with people, take an interest in their lives
to show you really care for them.
Remember…this is God’s mission, not yours.
He has chosen you to be His hands in Guatemala.
Remember, you cannot cure all the sick nor feed all the hungry in one day…or even one week. That is
not even your job. That is God’s job. Remember, your purpose…to show that God loves them. By simply
being there, you are telling the indigenous people, who have heard all their lives that they are worth nothing, who have faced extermination by their own government, and who live on the edge of existence, that
they ARE important. They ARE loved. Your mission is accomplished just by being there. You will know
this when it happens. Trust the feeling.
Language
While the official language of Guatemala is Spanish, for many of the Mayan people, Spanish is a second language.
Many in the rural areas, particularly the older generation, do not even speak Spanish. Only a small percentage of
the people speak English. The predominant dialect in the project areas is Tsutuhil. Church services, particularly in
the rural areas, are conducted in Tsutuhil.
Personal Security
We live in uncertain times. Like many places in the world, travel within Guatemala involves certain risks to one’s
property or personal safety.
1. Do not bring jewelry, expensive watches or clothing (suggestion: buy a cheap watch at K-mart).
2. Do not leave cash, cameras or other valuable items unattended while traveling or at the project site. It is a good
idea to keep valuables with you at all times.
3. Keep passport and cash on your body at all times. We recommend a ‘belly pouch’. This flat cotton pouch tucks
into your jeans/slacks at the waist and is hidden for view. You may be stopped and asked to show your passport at
any time, so always have it with you, well-hidden and protected from theft.
4. Be discreet when exchanging currency in public. Do not display large amounts of cash.
5. Never go anywhere alone even to wander off to ‘see something’, ‘buy something’ or ‘just take a quick picture’.
Always tell the team leader of the medical mission where you are going and when you will return. Most
especially, please don’t engage in what common sense might tell you is risky behavior – such as climbing
the volcano by yourself or swimming in the lake. It is one thing to introduce a risk to your own person
but if something happens to you because of it, it might also jeopardize the entire mission trip and the
very reason why we have come to Guatemala.
6. Carry a copy of your passport in a separate location from the original. Be sure your team leader has a copy of
your passport/visa.
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7. Carry a list of your medical conditions/allergies/personal medications with you.
8. Please tell your team leader, or other person, if you are experiencing any problems, especially health-related
ones.
9. Don’t wear the neck pouch for passport and valuables. To would-be thieves, it is like a flashing beacon that says
“I am valuable; take me”.
What To Take
One carry-on size bag should work for your personal clothing and items. Your checked bag allowance is
absolutely needed for transporting our medications which will be assigned to you. Label all luggage
clearly inside and out with your full name, address, and phone. Carry sample-size toiletries and a change of
clothing in your carry–on as the airlines may misplace baggage for a day or two, and we are three hours from
the airport. Remember that you cannot take on-board the plane containers of more than 3 oz of liquids and
which must be in a clear ‘baggie.’
Make a complete list of items in your checked baggage, leave one at home and bring one with you in case your
luggage is lost for an undetermined amount of time or seriously damaged by the airlines. Never pack personal prescription meds, documents or cash in your checked baggage.
Additionally, you may wish to bring along:
 Spanish – English dictionary/phrase book.
Clothing suitable for outdoor seasonal work. Dress casual.
Men…..
Jeans/slacks
Lightweight shirts (long and short sleeved)
Women….
Skirt/dress for church is required.
Slacks are OK for the job site.
Sweatshirt/jacket for cool evenings.
 Scrubs make excellent attire for daily wear at the clinic
 Medical staff: stethoscope, BP cuff, otoscope, thermometer with sleeves
 Spiritual reading.
Travel Arrangements
We will fly from the USA into Guatemala City. Teams should check in at the airport 2 hours prior to departure.
Please don’t be late as we must check in as a group. You will be required to show your passport at airport checkin. Dental and surgical instruments will need to be packed in checked baggage, not in carry-ons (any sharp instrument that could be remotely seen as a weapon will be confiscated from carry-on baggage). Airlines regulations
vary, but the general rule is: Carry-on: not to exceed 22X14X9 inches and 40 pounds, plus a purse, briefcase or
laptop. Checked: each piece may not exceed 62 linear inches (length, width, height) nor weigh over 50 lbs.
Insurance
Each participant should check with their primary health insurance to be sure it covers them for basic medical coverage while abroad. The Diocese of Charleston will purchase medical insurance for all medical mission participants. This will include coverage in the event you need to be transported from Guatemala.
Getting through customs:
This task can be difficult for health care teams carrying large amounts of expensive drugs, medical supplies and
equipment.
1. We will develop a detailed packing list of each box/bag available for customs, and an extra copy of each list. If
you have managed to acquire equipment or medications on your own, please print an itemized list of what is included in that bag. Insert this list into the top of the closed bag.
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2. We will carry with us a letter from the Diocese of Charleston, assuring that the medicines and supplies are not
for sale and will be used to treat the poor.
3. We will not bring with us any outdated medicines as these may be confiscated. We will not bring any medications that contains narcotics.
Upon arrival at the airport in Guatemala City, we will gather all bags and go through customs. If you are asked to
open a bag, stay calm, smile, and take your time. Open bag and allow them to look in it. Be polite at all times. The
exit at the airport can be a mob scene. Watch your wallet and keep your wits about you. We need everyone’s help
to get our bags off the baggage carousel.
Health & Medical Considerations
Listed below are several basic health and medical issues of which all team members should be aware, along with
some recommendations.
 You will encounter differences between where you live and where you are going: climate ~ nutrition ~ exercise
~ disease ~ sleep ~ STRESS. Some are inclined to stay out late in the evening and “party.” While fellowship is
always encouraged, if this results in your wanting to sleep-in the next morning causing you to miss breakfast and
morning prayers, it negatively impacts the group cohesion and the purpose of your mission.
 Get in shape now. Begin walking before your trip.
 Break in any new shoes or boots.
 Bring all your own personal medicines with you. (Do not assume you can purchase any in Guatemala.)
Our local partner have water where you can fill up your drinking container for the morning or afternoon.
Additional considerations to bring with you:
 Prescription glasses (bring a second pair, if available, in case of loss).
 Contact lenses (bring enough cleaning solution and supplies for the entire trip).
 Be sure to carry identification and written prescriptions with you at all times if you have unusual medical needs
or allergies.
Tetanus. A tetanus booster is always recommended every 10 years for adults. Is it time to get your renewed?
To Stay Healthy, Do:
 Wash hands often with soap and water. Use the waterless hand sanitizers often. (Purell, Germ-X or similar)
 Drink only bottled water.
Hot drinks (tea/coffee) generally will be safer if prepared with boiled water.
Ice is not safe if prepared with contaminated water
 Use only bottled water for brushing teeth, as well as rinsing your toothbrush.
 No singing in the shower…water ingested during showers is just as risky as drinking from the tap!
 Eat only cooked foods, as well as fruits and vegetables that you have peeled yourself. Fruits and vegetables
that are peeled are preferable to all others. It is recommended that you stay away from eating lettuce that’s been
washed with tap water.
 Keep feet dry and do not go barefoot (to prevent parasitic infections).
Guatemala Profile
Guatemala is the 3rd largest country in Central America, about the size of the state of Tennessee.
With 12 million people, it is the most populous country in Central America.
60% of the population is indigenous, mostly Mayan, with traditional clothing and culture still intact.
The central portion is a high plateau, interspersed with forested mountains and 32 volcanoes (5 currently
active).
Child mortality under age 5 is 10%.
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Malnutrition affects 82% of the children.
There are 90 doctors per 100,000 people.
The literacy rate is 65% (closer to 20% in the indigenous Mayan population).
Per capita GNP is $1,640 (1998), less than 1/12 that of the US.
Electricity is 110 V 60Hz, with standard 2-prong plug
Unemployment rate is 40-60%
The United Nations estimates that 90% of the population lives in poverty; 71% of the rural population
lives in extreme poverty.
Time zone is the same as our Central Standard Time.
Customs, Culture, Climate and Courtesies
Telephone service has improved markedly during the past 2 years and many people are using cell phones. Internet
service is available in cyber-cafes for email access.
The countryside is very beautiful, but the terrain is rough and mountainous. Most of the roads are unpaved, in
poor repair, and full of potholes, so be prepared to be bounced around as we are driving.
See that bucket near the toilet? Use it for the toilet paper. You should not place toilet paper or other materials in
the toilet. You will cause a plumbing emergency.
Bring cash for any purchases. Traveler’s checks and credit cards are occasionally accepted at major hotels/
restaurants (VISA is more widely accepted than any of the others). Most places take dollars but you can exchange
currency in the town.
A large variety of souvenirs are available for sale everywhere. Guatemala is famous for exquisitely handcrafted
clothing, weavings, and other items.
Photos are generally allowed. Exceptions: government buildings, and anything military. Some people are very reluctant to have their pictures taken. Always ask permission, and respect their refusal.
The Medical Experience
The Clinical Experience
Medical personnel might have an opportunity to work at a number of towns. Local collaborators with whom we
are affiliating operate schools. Our local partners will be coordinating our movements and letting the people know
when and where to come for medical evaluations and treatment. All five days of our 7-day mission, the team will
either be in a central location or traveling to one of the outlying communities to hold a clinic. These clinical sessions begin about 8 AM and last usually until 4 PM. The patient load can vary considerably but usually runs from
about 75 to 100 patients per day. The clinical conditions likely to be encountered can vary as well but generally
include, URI’s, viral syndromes, diarrhea, dysentery, parasitic diseases, malnutrition, asthma, skin disorders, tuberculosis, onchocerciasis, as well as a variety of adult chronic disorders, such as hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis.
The medical teams are headed by a physician, assisted by nurses and others with medical backgrounds. The teams
will be working with our local partners who work as health promoters in the region around the main town. They
provide invaluable insight into local health conditions and translation services between Tsutuhil and Spanish when
needed. Medical teams will take a full history, conduct a physical exam, and then prescribe what treatment is necessary. A diagnostic and therapeutic plan is developed together with and conveyed to the patient/parent and when
necessary, the health promoter for follow-up.
The Non-clinical Experience
It would be useful for the medical teams to explore the local customs and history of the area. Local indigenous
leaders are happy to spend time with the medical teams and convey their perceptions of local political issues and
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the determinants of health in the area.
Besides providing direct clinical care to individuals in the villages, the medical teams will be asked to provide some
in-service education to the local medical para-professionals who assist the people on a day to day basis. Some of
these informal talks might be about issues such as good hygienic practices but might also include wound care, suturing and other information that is appropriate for continuity of care after the medical team has left the area.
Because we often have many volunteers on a trip, some of you might be asked to spend some time in a school operated by the parish. You might help by teaching the children some basic English during the week we are on mission. Also, if you are inclined to do some manual labor, our local partners might have some work around the
church or convent that could use some attention.
The Community of San Pedro La Laguna
San Pedro La Laguna is a town of some 15,000 people located on the northern shore of Lake Atitlan, in highland
Guatemala. Its primary crop is coffee and the town is surrounded by a series of coffee plantations and affiliated
villages that fall within the larger municipality of San Pedro. The community is made up primarily of descendents
of the Maya and speaks the indigenous language, Tsutuhil, although most students speak Spanish as well. San
Pedro is materially a very poor community with an estimated per capita income of less than $1,000 (US) per year.
Most families are engaged in agricultural labor with an average daily wage about $3 per day.
Health Problems in Guatemala
The health problems in the villages directly reflect the poverty of the community. More than one in every 25 infants will die before their first birthday. Malnutrition affects about a quarter of all children and infections, including
diarrhea and pneumonia cause widespread suffering and preventable death. Tuberculosis remains a hidden killer, a
cause of chronic lung disease and disability that can affect whole families over a number of years. Trauma, particularly work-related and motor vehicle injuries is also a major contributor to health problems in these small towns.
Children with chronic disorders, such as cerebral palsy, birth defects, and developmental delay have emerged as a
surprisingly prevalent and serious health need.
Current Health Programs
The goal of health efforts in the local town is to couple broader community development initiatives with health
strategies that will ensure that the best preventive and treatment interventions are provided to all those in need.
The parish has very modest clinic facilities. Emergency patients are often transferred to the National Hospital in
the departmental (state) capital, e.g. Solola, for major surgery or complex interventions which is about an hours’
drive. In the town of San Pedro, our Catholic Diocese of Charleston has funded and built the two upper floors of
the clinic that provide us with more space and also allow us to conduct some specialty clinics and do minor surgical procedures under good clinical conditions.
The Health Promoter Program
In the plantations and villages outside of the main town, the best way to ensure the delivery of appropriate preventive and therapeutic health care has been through the training of local community citizens as health promoters.
The promoters have basic education but are specially trained in prevention strategies, health education, and the
early recognition of serious disorders. They also have the capacity to provide emergency first aid and arrange referral and transport to the parish clinic in the town. These activities are coordinated by local partners in charge of
health care for the parishes
Visiting Physicians and Medical Personnel
Technical assistance to the parish clinic operations is provided by visits of US-based physicians and medical personnel from the Diocese of Charleston. Physicians with specialized expertise, such as general surgery, OB/GYN,
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pathology, radiology, and pediatrics, as well as generalists are needed to participate in the health programs on a
regular basis.
Logistics and Living Conditions
Guatemala is a poor country. The towns we will work in are relatively safe; walking alone late at night should be
avoided but other precautions are similar to those suggested whenever one travels in developing parts of the
world, including locking rooms when not occupied, no elaborate jewelry, etc.
Tips For Visiting Doctors
Medical practice in Guatemala is different from the States due to the limited resources and the difficulty of patients
complying with our treatment advice. Keep medical regimens simple. Try to dose medication once or twice a day.
Give medicine for the least number of days you think will likely be effective. Appetite complaints along with dizziness, pallor and fatigue – these symptoms usually mean that patient specifically wants vitamins. A complaint of
“allergy” usually means a rash.
Information Fact Sheet for Medical Missions to San Pedro Lalaguna
Villages involved: San Pedro, San Juan and San Marcos.
Mother Superior in Guatemala City: Madre Luz Elena Ordonez
502.2369.5833 (or 34 or 35 – extension 125)
e-mail Ordluz@yahoo.es
In case of a medical emergency in Guatemala City, this is the hospital we would prefer to use:
Sanatorio
Nuestra Senora Del Pilar
3a Calle 10-71, Zona 15 Vista Hermosa
Colonia Tecun Uman
PBX: 2420-0000 FAX: 2369-3249
Address of Sisters of Bethany Headquarters in Guatemala City :
Hermanas de Bethania
Instituto Bethania
3C 23-41 2-15
Vista Hermosa I
Guatemala City
Superiora de la Communidad at San Pedro:
Sor Maria del Rosario Romero Cruz
Contact info on San Pedro
Hermanas de Bethania
Parroquia de San Pedro San Apostol
San Pedro La Laguna SOLOLA
Guatemala
Tel: 011-502-77 21 82 34
Cell 011 502 59 89 20 35
e-mail sormaria365@yahoo.es
Revised October 2010
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