Content Resources

Motivating People to Change Their Health Habits Speaker(s): Dave MD, MA (Bioethics) Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/motivating-people-to-change-their-health-habits

The first few hours of life should be filled with peace and promise. But in many parts of the world, they’re marked by risk. In developing countries, neonatal deaths remain heartbreakingly common—many of them preventable. Medical missions play a critical role in bringing both care and compassion to these fragile lives. Urgency of Neonatal Health More than 2 million newborns die every year, most within the first 28 days of life. In many developing countries, access to sterile delivery environments, trained midwives, and life-saving newborn interventions is limited or nonexistent. Simple infections, birth complications, or lack of warmth and oxygen can become fatal without timely care. That’s why neonatal missions aren’t just helpful—they’re urgent. Barriers to Newborn Survival Why are neonatal outcomes so poor in many underserved regions? Several compounding factors play a role: Inadequate prenatal care and maternal malnutrition Lack of skilled birth attendants No access to neonatal resuscitation or emergency care Limited awareness about newborn danger signs These challenges demand not just medical skill, but long-term investment in education and community health systems. God’s Heart for the Newborn “You knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” — Psalm 139:13–14 (NIV) Every newborn is a masterpiece—precious, loved, and known by God. Missions that protect and nurture these tiny lives reflect His heart in action. Mission Strategies That Make a Difference Mission teams trained in neonatal care bring critical expertise to the front lines. Effective approaches often include: Portable incubators and warming devices for low-resource clinics Neonatal resuscitation training for midwives and nurses Infection control education for birth attendants Breastfeeding and maternal nutrition support These practical efforts don’t just save lives—they empower local providers to continue the work long after the mission team leaves. Building Long-Term Impact Through Local Empowerment The goal isn’t just to reduce mortality in the short term—it’s to equip communities for lasting change. That means training local healthcare workers, supplying reliable medical equipment, and investing in maternal education. When missions invest in both newborns and the systems around them, fragile lives can become flourishing futures. Support the Mission When you support neonatal medical missions, you give more than medical care—you give the gift of life, love, and lasting hope to families in need.   Find out how you can be part of this life-saving work at Medical Missions.

Living on Mission in Healthcare Anywhere Speaker(s): Bob Mason; Helena Torres Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/living-on-mission-in-healthcare-anywhere

Hear healthcare missionaries share their journeys. In the first hour hear a panel of two docs and two nurses answer your questions as well as: - How do I find God’s guidance in the journey? - Why and how do I connect with a mentor or agency or team or training? - What if my spouse or family are not supportive of me doing missions? The second hour will be small discussion group with a missionary coach and others like you in your current stage: - Exploring full-time missions - Heading towards full-time missions - Single or married One participant shared after one of these discussions, “I felt so overwhelmed at the size of GMHC. It was easy to feel lost in the crowd. In the Exploring small group discussion I was able to share my questions and fears.” Speaker(s): John McVay Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/exploring-the-journey-to-full-time-missions-agencies-funding-singlesfamilies-guidance

When medical missions step into communities around the world, they don’t arrive in a vacuum. Many of these communities already have deeply rooted traditions of healing, passed down through generations. The question isn’t whether traditional medicine or modern healthcare is “better”—it’s how we honor both in a way that saves lives and builds trust. Reality of Traditional Healing Practices For many underserved communities, traditional medicine isn’t an alternative—it’s the only form of healthcare they’ve ever known. Herbal remedies, spiritual healing, and ancestral wisdom play a central role in how people understand illness and recovery. Mission teams must approach these practices with respect, not judgement. Dismissing them outright can create mistrust, while thoughtful engagement can open the door for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. When Modern Healthcare Intervenes Modern medicine brings undeniable benefits: antibiotics, surgical procedures, prenatal care, and life-saving diagnostics. But it also brings complexity—tools, terminology, and approaches that can feel foreign or even threatening in communities with no prior exposure. That’s why integration, not replacement, is the most compassionate path forward. Missions that succeed often come alongside existing traditions rather than trying to erase them. Healing That Honors Both Worlds “To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” — 1 Corinthians 9:22 (NIV) This verse captures the heart of contextual ministry. It’s not about changing others to look like us—it’s about humbly stepping into their world and walking with them toward healing. Practical Ways to Integrate Traditional & Modern Approaches Some mission teams have found success by weaving both worlds together in ways that elevate community voices and build sustainable health habits: Listening first: Ask about local remedies, practices, and beliefs before offering new solutions Partnering with traditional healers: Build bridges that create mutual trust and shared purpose Using modern tools to enhance—not replace—local practices (e.g., improving sanitation for herbal treatments) Offering education that explains how and why certain modern methods work without demeaning local customs By valuing both approaches, we shift from a mindset of control to one of collaboration. Moving Forward with Respect & Compassion Medical missions have the power to bring incredible healing—but they must never forget the culture and wisdom already present in the places they serve. The best missions are the ones that listen well, teach gently, and honor deeply. It’s not about winning a debate between traditional and modern medicine. It’s about recognizing the image of God in every culture, and choosing healing over hierarchy. Support the Mission You don’t have to choose sides. You can choose service. Support missions that walk humbly, listen closely, and bring healing that lasts.   Discover how you can support culturally respectful missions at Medical Missions.

STUDENTS and Residents will learn about original motivation, long-haul stamina, pearls and pitfalls of living in community, debt, vision for one’s next step to the nations, and helping those in need Today tensioned with investing in education to help others later. Hear from a dentist, physician, PT student, an international missionary doctor and a student minister. Speaker(s): Jessie Thomas; David in Christ; Katherine Musser; Elizabeth Redican; Adam Tes Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/the-training-years-a-students-guide-to-a-missional-life

Health disparities among indigenous populations remain one of the most pressing issues in global healthcare missions. Cultural barriers, remote geographies, and a history of marginalization have made it difficult for many indigenous communities to access reliable, respectful, and culturally relevant health education. Medical missions, when done in partnership with local leaders, can help bridge this gap with humility, trust, and long-term impact. Culturally Relevant Health Education Health education isn’t one-size-fits-all. In indigenous communities, standard Western approaches to healthcare often fail to consider traditional beliefs, language differences, and community structures. This can result in mistrust or the outright rejection of life-saving guidance. Effective health education in these settings must be culturally appropriate—designed not just for communities, but with them. Respecting traditional practices while introducing evidence-based health knowledge builds mutual understanding and sustainable change. Barriers Indigenous Communities Face in Accessing Health Education Indigenous populations around the world face a unique set of challenges when it comes to healthcare access. These include: Lack of healthcare infrastructure in remote regions Language barriers and limited translation resources Mistrust due to historical mistreatment by outside systems Limited representation of indigenous voices in health leadership Each of these barriers underscores the importance of education that honors culture, promotes dignity, and builds trust over time. A Biblical Vision for Community and Healing “From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.” — Acts 17:26 (NIV) This verse is a reminder that every culture, every land, and every people matter to God. Bringing health education to indigenous populations is not just outreach—it’s recognizing the beauty, value, and wisdom within each community. Mission Strategies That Work Medical missions that succeed in indigenous communities rely on collaboration and humility. Effective strategies often include: Partnering with indigenous leaders to co-create health messages Delivering education in local languages through interpreters or bilingual health workers Training local health educators from within the community Adapting visuals, stories, and lessons to reflect the community’s worldview These efforts lead to deeper engagement and lasting health improvements. Sustaining Trust Through Long-Term Commitment True transformation doesn’t come from a single visit. Long-term partnerships, consistent presence, and ongoing dialogue are vital. Missions that return regularly, invest in leadership development, and listen well are those that see real, lasting health change in indigenous communities. Medical missions grounded in respect and relationship don’t just deliver health facts—they cultivate hope, resilience, and a renewed sense of dignity. Support the Mission When indigenous communities are empowered with health education that reflects their language, values, and voice, lives are changed. Join the mission to build bridges of understanding and bring healing through education.   Discover how you can support culturally respectful health missions at Medical Missions.

Join us for a dynamic and engaging 2-hour interactive workshop exploring "The Impact of Global Trends on Cross-Cultural Missions." This session will delve into key global trends—such as technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, migration patterns, and cultural changes—that significantly influence the landscape of global gospel proclamation. Through a balanced mix of insightful presentations, collaborative table discussions, and lively group interactions, participants will examine both the opportunities and challenges these trends present to missionary work. Together, we will think deeply about strategic adaptations and innovative approaches to position ourselves and our ministries effectively for the future. This workshop is designed to foster a shared learning environment where we can collectively discern how to navigate and lead through an ever-evolving global context. Speaker(s): Michael VanHuis Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/the-impact-of-global-trends-on-cross-cultural-missions

Nutritional deficiencies in underserved communities are one of the most overlooked public health crises happening today. In areas where access to food is limited or the quality of available food lacks essential nutrients, children and adults alike suffer from avoidable illness, stunted growth, and compromised immune systems. Medical missions serve as a frontline response, addressing both the physical effects of malnutrition and the need for education and sustainable support. Nutritional Deficiencies in Underserved Communities In low-resource environments, nutritional deficiencies lead to a cascade of health problems. Iron deficiency can impair cognitive development in children. Lack of vitamin A increases vulnerability to infections. Zinc deficiency hinders wound healing and immune function. For expecting mothers, malnutrition increases the risk of complications during childbirth and developmental issues for newborns. In many underserved communities, these deficiencies are not the result of neglect but of limited options. Without access to diverse foods or consistent health education, families often rely on whatever is available—even when it fails to meet basic nutritional needs. Why Nutritional Gaps Exist in Low-Resource Areas Nutritional challenges in underserved regions are deeply rooted in systemic and environmental factors. These include: Limited availability of nutrient-rich foods due to climate, cost, or conflict Lack of nutritional education and awareness Inadequate infrastructure for food storage and transportation High reliance on processed or carbohydrate-heavy diets that fill but do not nourish These conditions combine to create generations of health inequity. A Call to Action from Scripture “If you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness…” — Isaiah 58:10 (NIV) This verse captures the mission of those who serve in nutritional outreach—responding to physical need while reflecting the light of Christ through compassion, sacrifice, and healing. How We Address Nutritional Deficiencies Faith-based medical missions play a unique role in confronting malnutrition. Their efforts combine healthcare expertise with local empowerment to create lasting change. Common strategies include: Distributing multivitamins and micronutrients to vulnerable groups Partnering with local leaders to identify dietary needs and feasible solutions Hosting nutrition education workshops that emphasize locally available foods Integrating nutrition screenings into broader healthcare visits These actions focus on restoring strength, dignity, and health—one meal, one lesson, one person at a time. Empowering Local Change Through Nutrition Education The most powerful tool for change is education. By equipping community members—especially women, caregivers, and educators—with the knowledge to identify and prevent malnutrition, missions lay a foundation for sustainable health. Simple changes, like encouraging home gardening, proper breastfeeding practices, or using iron-rich legumes, can make a significant impact. More importantly, education turns short-term aid into long-term transformation, creating communities that are equipped to nourish themselves and their future generations. Support the Mission Malnutrition shouldn’t be a life sentence for anyone—especially not for children growing up in underserved areas. Join the effort to fight nutritional deficiencies by supporting medical missions that combine health, hope, and healing. Learn how you can support nutrition-focused medical missions at Medical Missions.

As Christ-followers, how do we live with confidence, peace, and joy?  Come and hear a life story and testimony that God keeps every promise. 

Becoming involved in healthcare education can provide a way for healthcare workers and laypersons to be part of a strategic plan to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Deciding to use this strategy as a bridge to the Gospel means understanding what it means to serve in a cross-cultural context before ever going anywhere. Learn about this exciting opportunity to meet the needs of communities, build relationships and lasting partnerships, and show the love of Jesus. Speaker(s): Rebecca Meyer; James D. Smith; G Randall Bond Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/using-healthcare-education-as-a-mission-field-in-a-global-setting

In underserved communities around the world, malnutrition remains one of the leading contributors to poor health outcomes. Nutrition education in medical missions bridges the gap between immediate healthcare needs and sustainable solutions, empowering individuals and families to make healthier choices that transform their well-being for generations to come. Nutrition in Global Health Malnutrition—whether undernutrition, micronutrient deficiency, or obesity—is a silent epidemic in many regions. It weakens immune systems, stunts growth, and increases susceptibility to chronic illnesses. For children, malnutrition can have devastating long-term effects, including impaired cognitive development and physical growth. Medical missions prioritize nutrition education to address the root causes of these health challenges. By teaching communities about proper nutrition, missions reduce malnutrition rates, prevent disease, and create a foundation for lifelong wellness. Key Elements of Nutrition Education in Medical Missions Nutrition education programs focus on practical, culturally appropriate strategies that promote sustainable improvements in community health. These initiatives often include: Healthy Eating Workshops: Teaching families how to incorporate nutrient-rich, locally available foods into their diets. Addressing Micronutrient Deficiencies: Providing education about key nutrients like iron, vitamin A, and zinc, and offering supplements when needed. Maternal and Child Nutrition: Supporting pregnant and nursing mothers with guidance on healthy diets to improve maternal and child outcomes. By focusing on these elements, missions equip communities with the knowledge to fight malnutrition and build healthier futures. Challenges to Implementing Nutrition Programs While nutrition education is vital, implementing programs in underserved areas comes with challenges. Limited resources, cultural differences, and food insecurity can make it difficult to introduce sustainable change. To overcome these obstacles, missions: Collaborate with local leaders to ensure programs are culturally sensitive and relevant. Focus on affordable, locally sourced solutions to encourage adoption of healthier eating habits. Integrate nutrition education with existing healthcare initiatives, such as maternal care and chronic disease management. These strategies ensure nutrition programs are accessible, impactful, and sustainable. Empowering Communities Through Education The success of nutrition education lies in its ability to empower individuals to take ownership of their health. Medical missions work with local educators, healthcare workers, and community leaders to: Train families on meal planning and food preparation. Promote home gardening initiatives that provide access to fresh, nutritious produce. Raise awareness about the link between nutrition and overall health. By fostering self-sufficiency, nutrition programs help communities build resilience against malnutrition and related illnesses. Stories of Impact: Transforming Health Through Nutrition Nutrition education has the power to create lasting change. For example: In rural Africa, nutrition workshops taught families how to incorporate nutrient-dense grains and vegetables into their diets, reducing malnutrition rates among children. In Southeast Asia, a maternal nutrition program improved birth outcomes by equipping mothers with the knowledge to meet their nutritional needs during pregnancy. In Central America, home gardening initiatives provided families with sustainable access to fresh produce, addressing food insecurity and improving community health. These stories demonstrate how simple yet powerful nutrition education can transform lives, breaking the cycle of malnutrition and improving overall well-being. Take Action: Support Nutrition Education in Medical Missions Nutrition education is a cornerstone of sustainable healthcare. By supporting medical missions focused on nutrition, you can play a role in transforming lives and building healthier communities. Whether through volunteering, donations, or partnerships, your support makes a tangible difference.   Be Part of the Change: Learn how you can support nutrition education programs and medical missions at Medical Missions.