Parent's Guide

International Medical Aid offers a variety of programs designed to provide students with valuable hands-on learning experiences in clinical, research, and global health education settings. Our mission is to prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals by offering immersive experiences that foster personal and professional growth, cultural understanding, and a global perspective.

Your child will have access to new environments, challenges, and opportunities that will shape their future career and personal development. Supporting your child through this experience is essential in helping them maximize the program’s benefits. As a parent, you can assist them in setting realistic goals, managing expectations, and navigating challenges that may arise.

Encouraging open communication, promoting self-reflection, and fostering resilience are critical aspects of your role in this process. By providing the right balance of support and independence, you can help your child make the most of this unique opportunity.

This Parent Guide will cover program overview, safety and security measures, financial information, and ways to support your child during their time with International Medical Aid. We hope this will be a valuable resource for you and your family as you prepare for this exciting and life-changing experience.

Purpose and Main Objectives

Our primary goal is to offer students immersive, high-quality experiences in clinical practice, research, and global health education. We are dedicated to preparing and empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals with the skills, knowledge, and global perspective necessary for success in their chosen careers.

Through our carefully designed programs, participants engage in hands-on learning, gain a deeper understanding of healthcare systems in diverse cultural contexts, and foster professional and personal growth. By focusing on practical experience and cultural immersion, our approach helps students develop the competencies needed to excel in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.

Below are some of the key skills and knowledge participants can expect to gain through our programs:

Clinical Skills

During healthcare and pre-health internships, interns work alongside experienced medical professionals in real clinical environments. They have the opportunity to observe patient exams, assist with basic procedures (when appropriate), and learn to record vitals or patient histories. This hands-on involvement helps bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and practical care, equipping them with foundational clinical competencies that will serve them throughout their careers.

Research Experience

As part of the program, interns may engage in ongoing research projects led by local medical teams or international partners. Their responsibilities can include data collection, literature reviews, and presentations under the mentorship of practicing researchers. Through this experience, they develop analytical thinking skills and gain exposure to research methodologies, fostering a deeper appreciation for evidence-based medicine and its impact on patient outcomes.

Global Health Perspective

Living and learning in a new country immerses interns in different healthcare systems and practices. They gain firsthand insight into how socio-economic factors, resource availability, and cultural beliefs shape healthcare delivery. By viewing medicine through this global lens, they become better prepared to adapt and collaborate across diverse settings, equipping them to address health disparities both at home and abroad.

Cultural Competence

Interacting with local communities is a key component of these internships. Interns encounter new customs, values, and communication styles, all of which can influence patient care. Cultivating respect for these differences enhances their ability to form trusting relationships with patients and colleagues from varied backgrounds. Developing cultural competence ensures that they will be ready to practice medicine or healthcare with empathy and understanding.

Professional Development

Interns build critical professional skills throughout their experience, including communication, teamwork, and leadership. Working in a clinical or research setting allows them to collaborate with mentors, observe diverse approaches to patient care, and refine problem-solving strategies. These experiences strengthen their résumés and lay the groundwork for success in future academic or professional pursuits.

Personal Growth

Immersing themselves in an unfamiliar environment encourages independence, flexibility, and self-reflection. Interns learn to navigate new logistical, cultural, or interpersonal challenges while building the resilience necessary for a demanding healthcare career. As they adapt and thrive, they gain confidence and a broader worldview, benefiting every aspect of their personal and professional lives.

Safety and Security

Ensuring the safety and security of our program participants is a top priority for Medical Aid. We understand that, as a parent, your child’s well-being is of utmost importance. To address any concerns and provide peace of mind, we have put in place various measures to maintain a secure environment for all our participants.

Pre-Program Preparation

Before departure, all students attend a comprehensive health and safety orientation. This session covers essential topics such as travel safety, personal security, and emergency procedures. We provide guidelines on how to navigate unfamiliar environments and avoid potential risks. Additionally, we discuss cultural norms and expectations to help students adapt to their new surroundings.

Travel insurance is a crucial component of our safety measures. We require all participants to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, evacuation, and repatriation. This ensures that students receive prompt and appropriate care in case of a medical emergency.

On-Site Safety Measures

Our on-site safety measures include strict guidelines and protocols to be followed by all participants. We provide a 24/7 emergency contact number, ensuring students and parents can reach our staff at any time. In addition, our local partners and coordinators are trained to handle emergencies and provide necessary support.

We regularly assess our program sites for safety and work closely with local authorities to stay updated on any potential risks. Our staff is well-versed in emergency procedures, and we have a crisis response plan in place to handle unforeseen situations. We also maintain a communication network to inform parents and students about any changes or updates related to safety.

Health and Wellness

We provide access to medical facilities and resources to ensure that students receive appropriate care in case of illness or injury. Our local partners and coordinators can assist with finding healthcare providers and navigating the local healthcare system. In addition, each intern is provided with comprehensive Travel Medical and Accident Insurance (up to $1,000,000 coverage) by IMA. This policy covers most medical and dental emergencies, medical evacuations, and lost luggage. It is not equivalent to traditional health insurance and does not include full trip cancellation or interruption coverage. If additional coverage is needed, IMA can assist with arranging supplemental policies.

Mental health and well-being are also integral to a successful experience abroad. Our staff is trained to support students in coping with challenges and adjusting to a new environment. We encourage open communication and provide resources to address any concerns related to mental health.

International Medical Aid maintains a 100% safety rating, and our organization has had no incidents with interns or staff in any of our programs.

We make every effort to ensure the safety of our interns and staff by providing ample local guidance and 24/7 U.S.-based support for interns and their loved ones. Interns receive a full orientation of the local area along with physician-led orientations of their placement site. This includes an overview of AAMC’s Guidelines for Premedical and Medical Students Providing Patient Care During Clinical Experiences Abroad and OSHA’s Universal Precautions (Standard Precautions).

International Medical Aid Students Gaining Hands-on Healthcare Experience

All our residences are located within the safest neighborhoods of the cities in which we operate. Each residence is enclosed in a gated community with 24/7 security staff. We employ only designated, private transportation for our interns and disallow the use of public transport. In case of exposure to infectious disease, interns will have access to Post-Exposure Prophylaxis.

We offer all our interns comprehensive travel, accident, and health insurance. All treks and safaris organized by IMA Safaris Africa contract vetted travel partners and trusted guides. Furthermore, we continuously monitor advisories from the U.S. Department of State and when deemed necessary, proactively take measures to protect our interns and staff.

24/7 US. Based and Local Support

International Medical Aid ensures that interns and their families have access to round-the-clock support. A dedicated U.S.-based team is available 24/7 via email, phone, and text (iMessage, SMS, WhatsApp) to assist parents, loved ones, and home institutions with any concerns while interns are abroad. Additionally, interns receive a local cell phone or SIM card to facilitate easy communication in their host country.

Comprehensive Pre-Departure Support

Preparing for an international internship involves more than just packing bags. International Medical Aid provides extensive pre-departure guidance, ensuring interns are well-prepared for their experience abroad. This includes detailed orientation materials, assistance with travel arrangements, safety protocols, and insights into cultural expectations. Parents can feel confident knowing their child has the tools and resources needed for a smooth transition into their program.

Travel, Accident and Health Insurance

International Medical Aid provides each intern with $1,000,000 of top-rated travel insurance that will cover most medical and dental expenses, medical evacuation, lost luggage costs*, and trip interruption coverage*. This insurance is underwritten by Sirius International.

Structured Clinical Rotations - AAMC Complaint

Based on a model developed by our founders at Johns Hopkins, International Medical Aid’s internships allow students to gain meaningful insight to different medical specialties in major teaching hospitals outside of the United States under the supervision of experienced physicians.

Modern and Secure Residences

International Medical Aid’s Program Residences provide interns with safe, modern dormitory style accommodations in apartments located within secured, gated communities. Our Program Residences are centrally located within the safest neighborhoods.

Dedicated, Private Transportation

International Medical Aid provides interns with safe, reliable daily transportation to/from their placement site as well as all air-port transfers. IMA employs only private, chartered transportation with vetted drivers who pass extensive background and safety checks.

Risk Management

We continuously assess and mitigate risks to ensure the safety of our participants. Our risk management approach includes pre-program evaluations of the local conditions, close monitoring during the program, and post-program reviews to identify areas for improvement. We also have a crisis response plan in place to address emergencies promptly and effectively.

Proactive Risk Assessments

Before each program begins, we conduct thorough evaluations of local conditions, healthcare facilities, and safety protocols. This ensures that every intern is placed in a secure and well-prepared environment, minimizing potential risks from the start.

Continuous Monitoring & Support

Our team closely monitors all program locations, providing real-time updates and guidance to participants. With 24/7 local and U.S.-based support, interns and their families have immediate access to assistance whenever needed.

Emergency Preparedness & Response

In the event of an emergency, our crisis response plan ensures rapid, coordinated action. From medical support to evacuation procedures, we have systems in place to protect interns and address any situation effectively.

PROGRAM COSTS

Financial Information

Program Fees vary depending on the program’s duration, location, and other factors. The cost typically covers:

Transparent Program Fees

Our Program Fees are designed to cover essential services, including housing, meals, local transportation, and full on-site support. Fees vary depending on the location and duration, ensuring flexibility while maintaining the highest program standards. A detailed cost breakdown is available for each program.

What’s Included in the Cost?

Internship fees cover:

✓Housing and Accommodations
✓Meals (as Specified Per Program)
✓Local Transportation for Program Activities
✓24/7 On-Ground Support and Mentorship
✓Orientation and Cultural Immersion Activities

Additional Expenses to Budget For

While the Program Fee covers many essentials, students should plan for additional costs such as:

✓Airfare and Baggage Fees
✓Visa and Passport Expenses
✓Traditional Health Insurance not included (IMA provides up to $1M Travel Medical & Accident Insurance covering emergencies, evacuations, and lost luggage; additional coverage available if needed).”
✓Personal Spending Money
✓Medical Vaccinations or Prescriptions (If Needed)

Travel Insurance Requirements

Each intern is provided with Travel Medical and Accident Insurance (up to $1,000,000 in coverage) at no extra cost. This policy covers most medical and dental expenses, medical evacuation, and lost luggage. Please note that this is not traditional health insurance and does not include full trip cancellation/interruption coverage. Should additional coverage be required, IMA can assist with arranging supplemental policies.

Payment Plans & Financial Aid Options

Funding an international internship is a significant investment. We offer flexible payment plans, and students can explore external funding sources like scholarships, grants, and crowdfunding. Our team can provide guidance on financial planning and you are welcome to review our Funding Guide for potential financing opportunities.

Refund & Cancellation Policies

We aim to provide flexibility and transparency regarding cancellations. If plans change, we offer refund policies based on the cancellation timeline. Contact our team for full details on refund eligibility and rebooking options.

It’s important to note that Program Fees generally do not include airfare, personal expenses, trip cancellation insurance, and visa fees. We recommend reviewing the specific program’s details to gain a comprehensive understanding of the associated costs.

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International Medical Aid Healthcare Students in Clinical Setting

Supporting your child - communication tips

Staying connected with your child during their time in the program is essential to provide support while also allowing them the independence to grow. Regular check-ins through phone calls, texts, or video chats can help maintain a sense of connection and provide opportunities for sharing experiences and discussing any concerns.

It’s important to strike a balance between staying in touch and allowing your child the space to fully immerse themselves in their experience.

Talk to a Program Advisor

Helping Your Child Make the Most of the Experience

Supporting your child in setting goals and managing expectations can significantly enhance their experience in the program. Help them identify short-term and long-term objectives and encourage them to take full advantage of networking opportunities, mentorship, and hands-on learning. Engaging actively in the program will ensure they gain the maximum benefit.

Emergency Contact Information

Ensure you have the key emergency contact details, including phone numbers, emails, and physical addresses of the program director, host clinical sites, and the nearest embassy or consulate. This readily available information provides peace of mind in case of any urgent situations while abroad.

Advocacy and Fundraising

If you feel passionate about this program’s impact on your child, consider getting involved. Supporting scholarship funds, advocating for global health initiatives, or sharing your child’s story within your community can provide similar opportunities for future students.

Transitioning Home

Returning home after an immersive international experience can be an adjustment. Your child may experience reverse culture shock or feel disconnected from their routine. Encourage them to reflect on their experiences, share stories with friends and family, and stay engaged with mentors and peers from the program.

Staying Engaged

Encourage your child to maintain connections with mentors, fellow interns, and the communities they work with. Continued involvement through research, volunteering, or additional medical experiences will help reinforce the skills and insights they gained.

Experience for Career Growth

Your child’s experience with International Medical Aid is more than just an internship — it’s a stepping stone for future opportunities. Encourage them to integrate their expertise into college applications, medical school essays, and job interviews. They can also explore additional International Medical Aid programs to develop their skills further and expand their professional network.

Hear From Our Alumni

Don’t just take our word for it—listen to the experiences of our past healthcare and pre-health interns. Our alumni have pursued successful careers, using the skills and knowledge gained during their internships to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

Here are some of our alumni's success stories:

To say my experience in Kenya was amazing would be an understatement. My experience in Kenya with IMA was truly life changing. It opened my eyes to many things including the differences in health care delivery, culture, politics, disease burden and much more. My first day in Kenya I was welcomed at the airport by IMA staff, they immediately made me feel welcome and safe. All Kenyans truly made me ...

Judy Birchmier

Morningside College

Read the Full Story

My accommodations were better than when I go on a personal vacation: always got the best food, having a chef allowed us to get to taste so many different food from the country, beautiful home, so comfortable, absolutely felt like a home away from home! There is so much support from the IMA crew, always someone there for you, they even provide you with a SIM card to make sure you have a way to comm...

Sarah B.

University of Ottawa

Read the Full Story

My experience in Mombasa was life changing. The people I met and all that I learned while working at CPGH was irreplaceable. I worked in the nutrition department at CPGH and saw so many different types of conditions and learned so much about the health care system in Kenya. The support from the International Medical Aid’s staff was amazing. Bella and Husna were always there when I needed somethi...

Isabelle Hammack

San Francisco State University

Read the Full Story

I loved every moment and every aspect of working with International Medical Aid! The staff of program mentors and interns was incredible. They were extremely efficient and made everything run smoothly, ensuring the success and well-being of each volunteer. They were so kind and I always felt welcomed and encouraged! The living accommodations and food were also great! Joshua and the support staff w...

Jessica Byrne

University of Delaware

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Frequently Asked Questions

Program Structure and Experience Housing, Meals, and Travel Safety and Health Precautions Financial Information and Scholarships

Subject

Parent's Guide

Purpose and Main Objectives

Program Structure

Duration and Schedule

Customizable Options

Safety and Security

Pre-Program Preparation

On-Site Safety Measures

Health and Wellness

International Medical Aid maintains a 100% safety rating, and our organization has had no incidents with interns or staff in any of our programs.

Risk Management

Financial Information

Transparent Program Fees

What’s Included in the Cost?

Additional Expenses to Budget For

Travel Insurance Requirements

Payment Plans & Financial Aid Options

Refund & Cancellation Policies

Make a difference in the world through our program

Funding & Financial Aid

EXPENSE CATEGORIES

Supporting your child - communication tips

Encouraging personal growth

Helping Your Child Make the Most of the Experience

Hear From Our Alumni

Frequently Asked Questions

Have Questions Not Covered Here? Feel Free to Contact Us