March 2026 Guatemala Surgical/Dental Mission
March 8 – March 14, 2026

Come join us as we return to Amatitlan, Guatemala to continue our efforts to improve the lives and the hospital conditions in Amatitlan.  We haven’t conducted a mission to Guatemala in three years due to political turmoil and administrative issues and our September mission was scrubbed just a few weeks prior to our departure due to damage that the hospital sustained as the result of the earthquakes that struck Guatemala this summer.  The hospital was initially closed but some areas were deemed stable and we are back on track to continue our work!  The patients need us more than ever as the hospital has had to reduce their capacity from 280 beds to 79 beds and is functioning more as a MASH unit.  They have brought in several portable/temporary units to help with the shortage but are still in severe need of reconstruction and assistance.  On the bright side, the current Director of the hospital is a most delightful gentleman and we were treated to the warmest reception that we have received thus far.

Guatemala is rich in history and tradition and the people are warm and inviting; it is the only Central American country where the indigenous population is in the majority.  The country is stunningly beautiful with 18 ecosystems and over 300 different microclimates which include beautiful mountains, lush jungles, black sand volcanic beaches, and several active volcanoes in the area where we will practice. 

We have conducted multiple surgical/dental missions to Amantitlan, Guatemala where we have made many wonderful friendships and have demonstrated our commitment to the community.  The Mayor and hospital Administration are very open and inviting and appreciative of our efforts.  Our previous missions have been incredibly rewarding; much of the fulfillment we experience comes from seeing the immense appreciation of the patients for the care they receive.  We invite you to assist us in caring for these very special people of Guatemala.  As we are returning after a three year hiatus, we are going to focus on Orthopedics and Plastic Surgery.  We are in need of surgeons, nurses, surgical scrub tech and support personnel.

Itinerary:

March 8 – (Sunday) Leave the US, arrive Guatemala City and travel by coach to our hotel in Amatitlan.  We will stay in the outstanding and eclectic Kawilal Thermal Spa and Hotel (https:// www.kawilalhotel .com/home.html).  Visit the hospital to evaluate the patients on the ward identified as needing surgery and evaluate and ensure that all necessary equipment is ready.  Welcome dinner.

March 9, 10, 11 and 12 – (Monday thru Thursday) Surgical days.

March 13 – (Friday) Leave our hotel in Amatitlan and check in to the Camino Real Hotel, a 5 star hotel in Antiqua (https://www.caminorealantigua.com.gt/en/).  This is a free day and day trips can be arranged to visit the majestic and magical Mayan ruins of Tikal, the black volcanic sand beaches at Soleil Pacifico or the still very active Volcan Pacaya.  Perhaps you’d rather spend your day lounging by the pool or take the day exploring the nooks and crannies and cathedral ruins in the beautiful city of Antigua.  Coffee aficionados may wish to visit and explore the Finca Filadelfia coffee plantation in Antiqua.  Farewell dinner at the delightful Casa de Santo Domingo, a beautiful hotel built on and incorporating the ruins of a 16^th century monastery.

September 14 (or 15) – (Saturday) Leave Guatemala City for the US.  Many team members have expressed interest in staying in Antiqua Saturday night to further take in the unique activities that define the city.  The Camino Real has offered a greatly discounted rate if you should elect to stay an extra night(s).

Costs: $1,550.  This includes all in-country travel, transfers, lodging, meals, non-alcoholic drinks, tips, fees, medical supplies and medications.

I assure you that you will leave Guatemala longing to return at your first opportunity!  I look forward to having you join us on this very rewarding mission! For more information, contact:

Ed Atwell, M.D.
atwelle@gmail.com
(770) 655-5268                             

Medical Outreach of America, Inc.
Building Bridges, Connecting Worlds
www.medicaloutreachofamerica.com

Medical Outreach of America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, charitable organization