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Outstanding 4.97rating (206)

Medical Aid Initiative

location
1 - 5 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Programs start every first and third Monday of the month.
  • Includes airport pick up, orientation, dormitory-style volunteer house accommodation in Livingstone, meals and 24/7 in-country support.
  • Volunteer up to 5 hours per day assisting in clinics that serve low-income communities - tasks may include checking and updating patient files, taking and recording vitals, and wound care.

Highlights

  • Programs start every first and third Monday of the month.
  • Includes airport pick up, orientation, dormitory-style volunteer house accommodation in Livingstone, meals and 24/7 in-country support.
  • Volunteer up to 5 hours per day assisting in clinics that serve low-income communities - tasks may include checking and updating patient files, taking and recording vitals, and wound care.
  • Work alongside qualified doctors and nurses to help increase access to affordable medical care, support understaffed local clinics and contribute to public health in Livingstone and surrounding areas.
  • Opportunity for medical or nursing students or qualified healthcare professionals to gain hands-on clinical experience, and learn about healthcare delivery in a developing country context.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Support local healthcare services by assisting medical professionals in Livingstone with IVHQ - the world’s leading volunteer travel organization.

    Volunteer in Zambia with IVHQ, the world’s leading volunteer travel organization trusted by more than 155000 volunteers since 2007.

    Make a meaningful difference by supporting medical and healthcare services in Livingstone, a vibrant town located near the world famous Victoria Falls. This program ...

    About the program

    Volunteer in Zambia with IVHQ, the world’s leading volunteer travel organization trusted by more than 155000 volunteers since 2007.

    Make a meaningful difference by supporting medical and healthcare services in Livingstone, a vibrant town located near the world famous Victoria Falls. This program offers volunteers the opportunity to contribute to essential healthcare support in communities where access to medical services can be limited, while experiencing life in one of Zambia’s most iconic regions.

    You will assist local healthcare facilities and medical professionals by supporting daily operations, patient care activities, and community health initiatives. This fully hosted experience allows you to contribute to public health efforts while gaining insight into healthcare delivery in a developing country context.

    Your Role and Impact: The primary goal of this project is to support healthcare delivery and improve access to basic medical services for underserved communities. Clinics and hospitals in Livingstone often experience high patient demand and limited resources. Volunteers help ease pressure on local staff, improve patient flow, and support preventative health education that can have long term benefits for individuals and families.

    As a Medical volunteer in Livingstone, your responsibilities will depend on your qualifications and experience and may include:

    • Clinical Support: Assisting doctors and nurses with basic, non invasive tasks such as recording patient information, checking vital signs, and preparing examination or treatment areas.
    • Patient Assistance: Helping guide patients through clinics, offering reassurance, and supporting communication where appropriate.
    • Health Education: Supporting basic health awareness activities related to hygiene, nutrition, sanitation, and preventative care.
    • Administrative Support: Assisting with record keeping, organizing supplies, and supporting daily clinic operations.

    Volunteers work closely with qualified local doctors, nurses, healthcare staff, and fellow international volunteers. Local medical professionals provide supervision, guidance, and task allocation to ensure all activities are ethical, appropriate, and aligned with local healthcare standards. Responsibilities are always matched to the volunteer’s level of training and experience.

    No special equipment is required for this program. All medical tools, equipment, and supplies needed for daily activities are provided by the clinics or health centers. Volunteers should bring professional clothing suitable for a medical environment, closed toe shoes, and any personal items required for comfort during long clinic days.

    Relevant medical or healthcare study or experience is required for this project, and documentation may be requested prior to placement. Professionalism, compassion, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity are essential qualities for volunteers working in healthcare settings.

    Program Details and Accommodation: This fully hosted volunteer experience includes accommodation in a volunteer house in Livingstone with meals provided each day. Transport to and from medical placements is arranged locally. Volunteers gain valuable hands on exposure to community healthcare delivery, work alongside experienced medical professionals, and spend free time exploring Livingstone’s cultural sites, wildlife areas, local markets, and the nearby Victoria Falls. Available year round, this program offers a highly impactful and well supported opportunity to contribute to medical services in Zambia.


    Typical day

    The daily schedule for the Medical program in Livingstone typically focuses on supporting healthcare professionals, patient care assistance, and health education Monday through Friday.

    • 7:00 AM: Enjoy breakfast at the volunteer accommodation.
    • 8:00 AM: Travel to the medical placement, which may be a ...

    Typical day

    The daily schedule for the Medical program in Livingstone typically focuses on supporting healthcare professionals, patient care assistance, and health education Monday through Friday.

    • 7:00 AM: Enjoy breakfast at the volunteer accommodation.
    • 8:00 AM: Travel to the medical placement, which may be a hospital, clinic, or community health center in Livingstone.
    • 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM: Assist with morning duties under supervision. Tasks may include observing medical procedures, supporting patient intake, assisting with basic care tasks, organizing medical supplies, and helping with administrative or outreach activities depending on qualifications.
    • 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM: Lunch break.
    • 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM: Continue supporting medical staff with patient care assistance, health education sessions, record keeping, or community outreach activities where appropriate.
    • 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM: Free time to relax, explore Livingstone, or socialize with other volunteers.
    • 6:00 PM onwards: Dinner is served at the accommodation, followed by free time for personal activities.
    Weekends are free for travel and exploration around Livingstone and nearby attractions.


    Free-time activities

    Free time activities
    Outside of placement hours, you will have free time in the afternoons and evenings to relax, socialize, and explore the Livingstone area.

    Local Exploration:
    Livingstone is a friendly town located near the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls. In your free time, you can explore local ...

    Free-time activities

    Free time activities
    Outside of placement hours, you will have free time in the afternoons and evenings to relax, socialize, and explore the Livingstone area.

    Local Exploration:
    Livingstone is a friendly town located near the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls. In your free time, you can explore local neighborhoods, browse markets, or enjoy relaxed walks while experiencing everyday life in the community.

    Dining:
    The town offers a range of dining options, including local Zambian eateries, casual cafés, and international restaurants. Evenings are often spent enjoying relaxed meals with fellow volunteers.

    Cultural Immersion:
    Livingstone has a strong sense of local culture shaped by community life and regional traditions. You may experience this through visits to markets, cultural centers, and interactions with local residents.

    Wellness and Relaxation:
    Free time can be spent unwinding at your accommodation, enjoying quiet walks, joining yoga or stretching sessions, or relaxing after a rewarding day at the medical placement.

    Weekend and Tour Options (Saturday and Sunday):
    Weekends are free for exploration and adventure, with many iconic experiences available in and around Livingstone.

    Popular activities and destinations include:

    Nature and Scenic Experiences:

    • Visiting Victoria Falls and surrounding viewpoints
    • Walking along river paths and natural areas
    • Exploring nearby national parks
    • Enjoying scenic outdoor spaces

    Wildlife and Safari Experiences:

    • Joining safari drives in nearby reserves
    • Observing wildlife along the Zambezi River
    • Learning about local conservation efforts
    • Participating in guided wildlife experiences

    Adventure and Water Activities:

    • Swimming at designated river or pool areas
    • Boat cruises along the Zambezi River
    • White water rafting opportunities
    • Trying other water based adventure activities

    Optional Travel Opportunities:
    Many volunteers use weekends to explore more of the region. Activities may include:

    • Day trips to national parks
    • Cross border visits to neighboring countries
    • Exploring rural communities
    • Joining guided sightseeing or adventure tours


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Education Requirements

    Healthcare/Medicine at This project is open to fully qualified doctors and nurses, as well as students in nursing or medical school. level

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 08:00 - 13:30

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Your fully hosted program includes the following benefits and services:

    • Meals: Breakfast and dinner daily
    • Accommodation: Volunteer house accommodation
    • Project Transport: Transport to and from the medical placement each day
    • In Country Support: Comprehensive in country day to day support and guidance
    • Emergency Support: 24/7 in country emergency support
    • Orientation: In country program orientation
    • Pre Departure Support: Pre departure support from your dedicated Program Manager
    • Preparation Tools: Personalized preparation tools, guides and check lists
    • Insurance and Flights Access: Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
    • Certificate: Certificate of International Volunteer Service upon completion

    Airport Pickup at Livingstone Airport

    • Arrival Day: Volunteers must arrive in Livingstone on the Sunday before their program orientation begins.
    • Orientation Start: Program orientation takes place on Monday in Livingstone.
    • Arrival Airport: Volunteers should book flights to arrive at Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport.
    • Airport Pick up: Airport pick up is included in your Program Fee.
    • Arrival Process: Upon arrival, volunteers are met at the airport by a member of the local team and transferred to the volunteer house.
    • Accommodation Coverage: Your Program Fee includes accommodation from the night of your arrival.
    • Alternative Pick up: Volunteers already in Livingstone prior to their program may arrange alternative meeting arrangements with the local team.
    • Departure: Return airport transfer at the end of the program is not included.

    Accommodation

    Volunteers stay in a volunteer house located in Livingstone, providing a supportive and community focused living environment close to medical facilities and community health projects.

    The volunteer house is shared with other international volunteers and offers a social setting that supports cultural exchange and daily program life.

    Bedrooms are shared with other volunteers, typically separated by gender. Basic bedding is provided.

    Living conditions are basic but comfortable and reflect local standards. Electricity and running water are available, though power outages may occasionally occur.

    Bathroom facilities are shared and include showers and toilets. Hot water availability can vary.

    WiFi may be available at the volunteer house but can be limited or unreliable. Many volunteers choose to use mobile data for more consistent internet access.

    Volunteers are advised to take standard precautions with personal belongings while staying at the accommodation.

    Food & Beverages

    Meals are provided daily at the volunteer accommodation.

    • Breakfast: Breakfast typically includes bread, cereal, fruit, tea or coffee, and simple local options.
    • Dinner: Dinner usually features traditional Zambian meals such as nshima with vegetables, beans, chicken, or meat dishes.
    • Lunch: Lunch is not included, allowing volunteers to eat near their placement or arrange meals independently.
    • Dietary Needs: Vegetarian and other dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with advance notice. Flexibility is encouraged.

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Livingstone Airport (LVI) in Livingstone. We assist you to find cheap flights to Zambia. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Zambia provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Zambia you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Zambia. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Start Dates:
    Programs start on the first and third Monday of each month and are available year round.

    Arrival and Orientation:

    • Designated Arrival Day: Sunday.
    • Arrival Airport: Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport, Livingstone (LVI), Zambia.
    • Arrival Notes: Airport pick up is included as part of the fully hosted experience. Volunteers are met at the airport by a member of the local team and transferred to the volunteer accommodation in Livingstone.
    • Orientation: Orientation begins on your selected Monday start date and is delivered by the local team. It covers an introduction to Zambia, local culture and customs, safety guidelines, program expectations, and an overview of the medical placement.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $564 per week 1 - 5 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    1 - 5 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.


    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    5.0
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    2025
    The program has been excellent. The variety of volunteer options and destinations are huge. The website display, step by step guidance and ...
    2025
    From this experience I gained patience, to be creative, confidence to speak in front of people in public and definitely a lot of knowledge ...
    Cybelle G.

    Teaching Experience

    Location

    Africa > Eastern Africa > Zambia > Livingstone

    Meet your project coordinator

    Renee
    206
    reviews
    4.97
    Outstanding
    2007
    Founded

    Verified

      Moderate response rate
    Spoken languages: Ukranian, French, Portuguese, Chinese (Mandarin), Polish, Spanish, English
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    Contact Renee
      Moderate response rate
    Ukranian, French, Portuguese, Chinese (Mandarin), Polish, Spanish, English

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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