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Outstanding 4.97rating (206)

Medical & Healthcare Initiative

location
2 - 4 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Programs start every Monday.
  • Includes dormitory-style accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City, meals, airport pick up, orientation and 24/7 in-country support.
  • Volunteer up to 6 hours a day assisting at a hospital in Ho Chi Minh City under supervised placement.

Highlights

  • Programs start every Monday.
  • Includes dormitory-style accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City, meals, airport pick up, orientation and 24/7 in-country support.
  • Volunteer up to 6 hours a day assisting at a hospital in Ho Chi Minh City under supervised placement.
  • Tasks may include observing and shadowing local doctors and nurses, assisting with basic triage, wound care, rehabilitation support and helping with patient care under guidance.
  • Join IVHQ for an opportunity to gain insight into the Vietnamese healthcare system, build medical experience, support local communities in need of care and immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture.

  • 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 Ho Chi Minh City with IVHQ - the world’s leading volunteer travel organization.

    Volunteer in Vietnam 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 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic urban center. With its mix of ...

    About the program

    Volunteer in Vietnam 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 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic urban center. With its mix of modern hospitals and community clinics, the city offers volunteers the opportunity to contribute to healthcare support while gaining insight into Vietnam’s medical system and public health needs.

    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 essential healthcare services while experiencing life in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant cities.

    Your Role and Impact: The primary goal of this project is to support healthcare delivery and improve access to medical services for underserved populations. Clinics and hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City often face high patient demand and staffing pressures. Volunteers help reduce workloads, support patient flow, and assist with basic care and health education activities that strengthen overall service delivery.

    As a Medical volunteer in Ho Chi Minh City, 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 hospitals. 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 Ho Chi Minh City with meals provided each day. Transport to and from medical placements is arranged locally. Volunteers gain valuable hands on exposure to healthcare delivery in Vietnam, work alongside experienced medical professionals, and spend free time exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s markets, cultural landmarks, cafes, and surrounding attractions. Available year round, this program offers a highly impactful and well supported opportunity to contribute to medical services in Vietnam.


    Typical day

    The daily schedule for the Medical program in Ho Chi Minh City typically focuses on supporting healthcare professionals, clinical observation, and patient assistance Monday through Friday.

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

    Typical day

    The daily schedule for the Medical program in Ho Chi Minh City typically focuses on supporting healthcare professionals, clinical observation, and patient assistance 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 Ho Chi Minh City.
    • 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 activities, record keeping, or community outreach where appropriate.
    • 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM: Free time to relax, explore the city, 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, sightseeing, and exploration around Ho Chi Minh City and nearby regions.


    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 Ho Chi Minh City.

    Local Exploration:
    Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic and fast paced city that blends modern development with historic neighborhoods. In your free ...

    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 Ho Chi Minh City.

    Local Exploration:
    Ho Chi Minh City is a dynamic and fast paced city that blends modern development with historic neighborhoods. In your free time, you can explore nearby streets, visit local parks, browse shops, and experience everyday life in Vietnam’s largest city.

    Dining:
    The city is renowned for its food culture. You can enjoy a wide range of dining options, from street food and local Vietnamese eateries to cafés and international restaurants, making evenings ideal for relaxed meals.

    Cultural Immersion:
    Ho Chi Minh City offers many opportunities to experience Vietnamese culture through markets, temples, museums, and daily interactions with locals, providing insight into both traditional and contemporary life.

    Wellness and Relaxation:
    Free time can be spent unwinding at your accommodation, visiting cafés, joining yoga or fitness sessions, or relaxing after a rewarding day at the medical placement.

    Weekend and Tour Options (Saturday and Sunday):
    Weekends are free for exploration and travel, allowing volunteers to experience more of the city and surrounding regions.

    Popular activities and destinations include:

    City and Sightseeing Experiences:

    • Exploring historic districts and landmarks
    • Visiting museums and cultural sites
    • Browsing local markets and shopping areas
    • Walking through parks and public spaces

    Cultural and Social Activities:

    • Trying local street food
    • Relaxing in cafés or social spaces
    • Exploring evening markets or nightlife areas
    • Spending time with fellow volunteers

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

    • Day trips to nearby towns or attractions
    • Visiting cultural or historical sites outside the city
    • Exploring rural or river regions
    • Joining guided cultural or sightseeing 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 - 16:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Your fully hosted program includes the following benefits and services:

    • Meals: Breakfast 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 Tan Son Nhat International Airport

    • Arrival Day: Volunteers must arrive in Ho Chi Minh City on the Sunday before their program orientation begins.
    • Orientation Start: Program orientation takes place on Monday in Ho Chi Minh City.
    • Arrival Airport: Volunteers should book flights to arrive at Tan Son Nhat 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 Ho Chi Minh City 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 Ho Chi Minh City, providing a supportive and social living environment close to hospitals, clinics, and community health projects.

    The volunteer house is shared with other international volunteers and offers a comfortable base for daily program activities.

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

    Living conditions are comfortable and reflect local standards. Electricity, fans or air conditioning, and running water are available.

    Bathroom facilities are shared and include western style toilets and showers. Hot water is available.

    WiFi is available at the volunteer house, though connection quality may vary depending on local usage.

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

    Food & Beverages

    Breakfast is provided daily at the volunteer accommodation.

    • Breakfast: Breakfast typically includes bread, eggs, fruit, rice or noodle dishes, and tea or coffee.
    • Lunch and Dinner: Lunch and dinner are not included, allowing volunteers to eat near their placement or explore local restaurants.
    • Dietary Needs: Volunteers with dietary requirements should remain flexible, as meals outside of breakfast are arranged independently.

    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 Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City. We assist you to find cheap flights to Vietnam. 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 Vietnam provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    Start Dates:
    Programs have fixed start dates scheduled throughout the year.

    Arrival and Orientation:

    • Designated Arrival Day: Sunday.
    • Arrival Airport: Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Vietnam.
    • 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 Ho Chi Minh City.
    • Orientation: A 1 day Orientation is included and typically takes place at the start of the program. This session covers an introduction to local staff, Vietnamese 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

    $403 per week 2 - 4 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 4 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
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    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

    Asia > South East Asia > Vietnam > Ho Chi Minh

    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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    Ukranian, French, Portuguese, Chinese (Mandarin), Polish, Spanish, English

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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