ABOUT VOLUNTEERING

Medical Requirements for Volunteers

Mercy Ships crew live and work in a unique operational environment, on board a ship and in a country with significant health and environmental risks and limited medical facilities. Mercy Ships crew must be in good physical and mental condition, so our Medical Review Team must learn about your health before you can volunteer to serve.

The following are our top 3 FAQs. 

  • Mercy Ships cannot reimburse any medical costs incurred if you are medically denied.
  • Any undisclosed condition could affect your approval for service with Mercy Ships.
  • The final determination of an applicant’s medical fitness to serve is done on a case-by-case basis. You may be required to provide additional health documentation medical information during the medical review process.

Any further questions about our medical fitness guidelines may be sent to [email protected]. 

To learn more about our medical requirements, please read the guides below.

CREW HEALTH GUIDE

The Crew Health Guide includes information on the required medical examination, vaccinations and tuberculosis screening process, malaria prophylaxis medication, wellness agreements, medical insurance, the on board pharmacy, food allergies, and more.

National Crew and volunteers on the deck 4 veranda.

MEDICAL FITNESS GUIDE

Please read this guide carefully before starting the application process, especially if you know of any previous or current health issues. We want to help applicants avoid the disappointment of a medical denial.

Dr. Leo Cheng, Maxillofacial Head and Neck Surgeon, handing toys out to patients in the ward.

TRAVEL & HEALTH INSURANCE

Mercy Ships provides a comprehensive health and travel insurance policy at no cost to all active volunteers. Coverage begins upon travel to and return from the ship or field service.

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