Join International Volunteer HQ, the world’s leading volunteer travel organization, on the Healthcare project in Manuel Antonio or San Jose. You will have the opportunity to assist with caring for people with disabilities and the elderly.

With one of Costa Rica’s most idyllic national parks as a backdrop, volunteers will be able to observe clinical practice and learn from local medical professionals while helping provide better access to quality healthcare for the people of Manuel Antonio or San Jose. It’s a great opportunity to see clinical practice in action and enjoy the cross-cultural exchange of ideas and learnings that comes from volunteering in another country’s healthcare system.

Both locations offer start dates every Monday throughout the year.

While volunteer schedules depend on the particular projects and placements, a typical day might look like this:

7:30 - 8:00 AM Breakfast with your host family.
9:00 AM Leave home and travel to your placement. You will join the local staff and will receive a duty roster and plan for work.
12:00 PM Lunch at a local restaurant.
1:00 - 5:00 PM Work at the placement usually ends. You are free to travel back to your accommodation, go sightseeing or take Spanish lessons.
7:00 PM Dinner with the host family.

Weekends are left for free time and exploration.

This program ranges from 1-24 weeks. Your fully-hosted experience includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 support. Detailed pricing information for your duration is available on our website. In Manuel Antonio, you’ll stay in a larger dorm-style volunteer house that can fit up to 15 volunteers, and is hosted by a local family. In San Jose, you’ll be accommodated in homestays with local families - it’s an immersive experience that connects you with an authentic insight into the Costa Rican way of life.
 
As a medical volunteer you’ll shadow local staff and observe clinical practice in action. Local regulations mean even qualified volunteers can only provide the most basic care to patients, under the supervision of local professionals. Volunteers who speak Spanish, are there for longer stays, and who show initiative are likely to have a more hands-on role.

Pre-medical, pre-nursing, medical and nursing students can assist with:

• Distributing medication
• Rehabilitation exercises
• Feeding and bathing patients
• Keeping patients company

Fully qualified volunteers may also be able to help with:

• Check-ups
• Triage
• Taking vitals
• Preparing medical equipment

IVHQ’s Costa Rica programs are available year-round, starting every Monday.

IVHQ provides the most affordable and top-rated programs. Detailed pricing available for your duration on our website:

• Healthcare Volunteer Project in Costa Rica - Manuel Antonio
• Healthcare Volunteer Project in Costa Rica - San Jose

You’ll be joining a global network of 123,000+ volunteers backed by the world’s leading team of volunteer travel experts with an outstanding safety system and track record.

Support impact-driven volunteer projects run by locals within your host community.

Academic credit available for all experiences with 45 hours or more through our School of Record with University of Montana that you can apply towards your degree at your home institution.

Flexible booking and free changes so you can register with confidence.  

• Select your start date & duration: All IVHQ volunteer programs are available year-round and you can choose to volunteer for durations on this program ranging from 1 to 24 weeks.
• Complete your registration: After you have been accepted on your chosen program, you can secure your place by paying the Registration Fee.
• Pay your Program Fee: This is only due 30 days before your program starts.

Need to make changes to your booking? You can make free unlimited changes to your destination, project and dates up until 14 days before you start.