VAW Dental Mission Trip to Peru

Amanda Popowitz Start Date: Dec 30, 2024 - End Date: Apr 29, 2025
  • Cusco, Peru

My Travel Story

by: Amanda Popowitz Start Date: Dec 30, 2024 - End Date: Apr 29, 2025
This summer, along with the Volunteers Around the World Global Health Alliance, I will be traveling to Cusco, Peru to help open mobile dental clinics and bring medical care to an underserved community. After communicating with residents of Cusco, VAW learned that locals have expressed the desire for medical and dental care, and this project was assembled to meet their needs. Many doctors, physician’s assistants, dentists, and nurses take time out of their regular work schedule to travel with VAW and provide the medical care that Cusco needs. VAW interns, such as I, are needed to provide additional assistance and help the project run smoothly. This project establishes a mutually beneficial relationship: students are able to partake in a meaningful experience that will provide them with a great deal of knowledge, and locals are able to have important medical issues addressed that would otherwise be left untreated. VAW has a collective goal to treat 20,000 patients by the end of the year, with over 17,500 patients being assisted during 2023. Limited access to healthcare is a global crisis, leading to great stratifications in quality of life and life expectancy throughout the world. According to 2022 ACS estimates, about 16.8% of people of Latin descent have no health insurance coverage to help pay for necessary care. In Peru specifically, the rural terrain that is home to 44% of the population makes it difficult for individuals to reach healthcare facilities. These disparities are incredibly unjust, and I believe that this is a significant issue in need of attention. With the help of our mobile clinics, people will not have to worry about traveling long distances and will not be unable to afford basic medical care. Proceeds will go towards medications and supplies, as well as housing and supporting medical staff and interns who will be providing care. Any donation is greatly appreciated. Thank you for supporting our cause!
  • Cusco, Peru

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