Many are able to give a week or two at a time, but some dedicate years or even a whole career. Short-term volunteers often travel at their own expense, sometimes even bringing with them donated supplies, money and medicines. Many, especially long-term volunteers, receive food, housing and perhaps even a small stipend while on assignment. Of those showing such an interest, one third had already had some overseas medical experience. Volunteers may choose from a variety of groups sponsoring medical aid work.
Many groups have a religious affiliation.
Institutions of higher education, national governmental and world governmental organizations such as the World Health Organization support these activities both directly and indirectly through training, research and supplies. The impact of volunteer work varies from country to country. This site is designed for those contemplating international health service as well as for those already involved. Many who are aware of the terrible suffering going on in the world feel that they simply must do something to help. Others travel to foreign lands because they find that their work at home has lost some of its appeal or has become routine.