Content Resources

"Am I 'called' to missions?" "How do I know if I'm called to missions and how can I be sure?" Every Christian considering serving in missions in any capacity has asked those questions, but what are the answers? In this session we will back up and ask a more basic question - "What do we mean by a "call?" The answer lies in comparing out ideas of "calling" with the Bible's teaching about how and why God guides his people. We’re taking some time to highlight some of the great resources that are available here at MedicalMissions.com. Today we wanted to point you to a breakout session from last year’s Global Missions Health Conference. This topic is always a popular one – Finding God’s Call for Your Life. In fact, it drives all that we do here at MedicalMissions.com! We hope you enjoy taking some time to listen to this session – you can also find these resources on the MedicalMissions.com Podcast. https://www.medicalmissions.com/resources/11519/gods-guidance-and-the-missionary-call

Systemic poverty often plagues the places where global health professionals serve. Grappling with this crushing reality can be overwhelming. Community health education is one tool that can help improve the well-being and dignity of those who suffer from the effects of poverty. The need for community health education in developing countries cannot be overstated. In many communities, the prevalence of problems such as pediatric/infant mortality, maternal mortality, and HIV/AIDS is alarmingly high. Health education interventions are effective in addressing many of the causes of child mortality. For example, studies show that better breastfeeding practices alone could save 800,000 lives per year. Dohn and Dohn’s article, “Short-Term Medical Teams: What They Do Well . . . and Not So Well” addresses this issue. They describe health education as one of those areas that medical groups do “not so well.” This is primarily because short-term volunteers often provide such education through translators and with inadequate cultural and worldview understanding. Consequently, it is unwise for use as outsiders to train local people without first learning their culture and developing relationships. The outcome will probably not be very positive. One model that has proven an effective short-term health education model is CHE (Community Health Evangelism). Primarily because it sees and understands poverty from an asset based approach instead of a needs based approach. See the global CHE Networks What is CHE?  Seeing Poverty in a Different Light Cross-cultural health education is challenging because we are faced with what many in the development world refer to as the “god-complex dilemma.” Jai Sarma presented these ideas at a workshop I attended many years ago. Jai was a longtime community development practitioner who serves as the head of Transformational Development at World Vision International. From his own heritage in India, he shared how westerners are often seen from the perspective of the poor. Our subconscious and subliminal attitudes can also drastically affect our interactions with the poor. He shared that poverty is to a large extent a manifestation of a marred identity and self-worth. Without adequate understanding, volunteers from developed countries leading health education classes in developing countries can further mar the identity of those they seek to serve. We need to train local people with extreme caution, sensitivity, and humility. We should learn as much about the culture, worldview, and life circumstances as possible. Another development practitioner also talks much about this idea of poverty being a manifestation of a marred identity; his name is Dr. Jayakumar Christian. In his book, God of the Empty-Handed: Poverty, Power and the Kingdom of God, Dr. Christian discusses the forces that keep the poor trapped in poverty. This includes a poverty of being (a broken sense of identity), a poverty of relationships (societal relationships working to maintain their entrapment rather than empowering them), and a poverty of purpose (a lack of vision for the future and lack of a powerful sense of vocation). He advocates for a holistic response to the powerless of the poor and for building their sense of self through reconnecting with their God-given identity. How Do We Support Human Dignity? We all know the Bible has a lot to say about serving the poor, but how do we serve the poor in a way that supports human dignity? I believe this starts with intentional study of poverty, its roots, worldview and beliefs. The challenge is that in our efforts to meet human need we often reinforce and support the limiting beliefs of poverty. Chief of which is that the poor are victims of circumstance, instead of being created in the image of God, and stewards of His resources. The goal of healthcare missionaries is not just to meet tangible, physical needs. It is also to minister in ways that enhances human dignity. It is about inspiring growth in people and helping them build on their God given capacity. Many years ago, when I was serving with Mercy Ships, I was part of a leadership initiative to rewrite all the organizations core documents related to programs. I look back on this now as one of my greatest learning experiences in missions. The idea was to create a foundation for our work that truly supported human dignity. We reviewed a lot of the literature on poverty and decided to use Bryant Myers book, Walking with the Poor: Principles and Practices of Transformational Development as our blue print. This book along with Dr. Christian’s book noted above have had a significant impact on shaping my understanding of poverty. As such, these books also helped me lay the foundation of CHSC missions philosophy. Which is a philosophy that holds to an asset based (not needs based) approach. We believe strongly that both relief and development begin with the same starting point, building on, and supporting local capacity.

Understanding the statistical foundations of epidemiology can lead to a better knowledge of research and implementation of new practices. This interactive session will look at issues that stem from the emphasis on positive “p-value” and the need for confidence intervals. Also reviewed will be some of the statistical fundamentals in epidemiology, including but not limited to: sensitivity, specificity, odds, risk, and bias.

Long term mission in Uganda: Helping Heal Widespread Addiction In its urban populations, Uganda has one of the highest per capita rates of drug and alcohol addiction in the entire sub-Saharan region. Since it is difficult to determine the prevalence of addiction in far-flung rural areas, there are only estimates about how high the country's actual rate may be.   Adding to the problem is some societal beliefs in Uganda and other places. Some people do not consider alcohol consumption to be a problem or a disorder that requires treatment. People who are suffering from alcohol addiction may be unlikely to seek treatment because they do not believe that their alcohol use is a problem that needs correction. They may also fear facing the cultural stigmas associated with addiction and with seeking help.  If you are an addiction treatment expert who is considering becoming involved in treatment missions, Uganda is a country that may need your help.   Uganda’s Problems with Addiction   Unlike addiction treatment in First World countries such as the United States, the treatment resources in Third World countries are limited. Fortunately, there are several rehabilitation volunteer programs that allow professionals to go abroad to treat drug and alcohol addiction. The need for education that will help people understand addiction and move beyond limiting beliefs about addiction treatment is paramount.   According to Uganda’s Ministry of Health, alcoholism is one of the top causes of psychiatric problems in Uganda. It also contributes to the poverty rate because substance abuse may make it difficult for sufferers to work or maintain employment. Even if they can manage employment, they may spend a substantial amount of their earnings on alcohol instead of essentials.   Along with the erroneous belief that alcoholism is a curable health problem, there are not sufficient resources to treat people with addictions in Uganda. Unfortunately, Uganda’s cultural beliefs sometimes conflict with other beliefs about addiction, creating shame and stigmas that further alienate addicted people and prevent them from seeking help.   Since there is a lack in public education in the country and the Ugandan government does not regulate substances such as alcohol, stronger actions are needed. A study about alcoholism in Uganda reported that 55 percent of respondents did not seek treatment for their alcoholism because they did not think it was a treatable problem. Other respondents refused treatment out of shame or for other reasons.     The Effects of War and Poverty on Addiction   Poverty and addiction are pressing social issues in many countries, including Uganda. In addition to poverty, the nation faces widespread social and economic issues, including unemployment and illiteracy.   Uganda is still dealing with the fallout from war and invasion by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA). The LRA subjected the people of the region to rampant, indiscriminate violence and oppression. Murder, rape, enslavement, and forced military service for children in the area was common.   Without adequate resources to cope with the unspeakable things that happened to them, some people have sought to handle their trauma in any way possible, including using alcohol to numb their pain. The war left people mutilated, traumatized, and orphaned. Although Uganda is making some inroads to recovery, much still needs to be done to address the war’s devastating effects on the people of the country.   Since there is a lack of public knowledge about addiction, education is essential to encourage addicted individuals to seek treatment. People have not considered alcohol consumption to be a treatable problem in Uganda. Not enough attention has focused on the devastating impact alcohol may have on specific communities, such as pregnant women.   Volunteers talk with people in communities and schools to educate them about addiction and make them aware of options that are available to them. The ability to communicate key information in an easy-to-understand and creative way is an asset.        The Value of Volunteering in Uganda   If you are seeking a picturesque country with a host of geological wonders, Uganda is your place. Within its borders, the country contains broad savannas, dense forests, and majestic mountain ranges. The country is one of the few places where people can see the endangered gorilla. Visiting Uganda gives people the chance to see these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.   By nature, Ugandans are warm and welcoming people who go out of their way to make visitors feel at home. Hospitality is cultural. Activities to enjoy in Uganda include hiking and bungee jumping. The cuisine is also delicious and there are many restaurants to enjoy excellent local fare.    The Importance of Sharing Your Skills with Those in Need   You have training and skills that can help educate and assist people who are struggling with alcohol and drug addictions. Joining a mission may help you share your talents and compassion with people who may need information and treatment.   Consider contributing to the important work of healing the devastating addiction problems in other countries. If you are looking for a way to make a difference and use your education, training, and experience, helping fight addiction in Uganda may be a good option for you.

In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children and adolescents get at least one hour of physical activity each day. It shouldn’t be breaking news that children need exercise. In fact, we are all aware that increased exercise for kids will promote healthy development, prevent chronic disease, and decrease problems such as obesity. Helping kids enjoy being active will set them up to become stronger and healthier teens and adults. Childhood obesity has become a serious epidemic over the last decade, and there are many contributing factors; however, one of the biggest causes is that kids have become more sedentary over the past 10 years or so. In other words, they’re spending a lot more time sitting than they used to. Kids are spending several hours every day in front of a screen (TVs, smartphones, tablets, and other devices). For most kids, there is far too much screen time and not enough physical activity, which can lead to the greater problem of childhood obesity. Check out this guide provided by Maryville University that includes a list of resources and articles about activities and exercises for children in grades K-12 with the goal of promoting a healthier and more active lifestyle.

Medical Disclaimer: The content of this post is for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified health professional for doubts and questions. Cannabidiol, more commonly referred to as CBD oil, is breaking new grounds in the healthcare industry. It is being touted as a cure for chronic pain, depression, arthritis, and a broad range of maladies in many health and wellness websites on the internet. Studies regarding its benefits and side-effects are still nascent, but early research is very promising. Though CBD is derived from the same Cannabis Sativa plant as Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC or “weed”), it is nonpsychoactive. That is, CBD oil does not get you high whereas THC does. Unsurprisingly, CBD oil has been receiving massive attention in recent years given all the potential health benefits it may possess. The question is, can it help with pesky skin problems too? Recent research from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests that it most certainly can. Here’s how CBD oil can help alleviate these five of the most commonly diagnosed skin problems: Acne Itchy and Dry Skin (Eczema) Redness and Skin Bumps (Rosacea) Scaly and Itchy Skin (Psoriasis)  Cold Sores Let’s take a comprehensive look at each of them: 1.   CBD Oil for Acne: Acne is a very common skin problem (especially among teens) that occurs when your hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Excessive oil secretion, bacteria, and unregulated production of Androgens (a hormone) are all major contributing factors to Acne development.   It is a chronic (long-lasting) skin problem that can be managed with treatments like antibiotics, topical creams, and so on. But these conventional treatments often have a lot of side effects and are bad for your long-term health. CBD, however, is generally well tolerated and considered safe.   The sebaceous glands and hair follicles contain CB1 and CB2 receptors, just like many other organs in our body. These receptors communicate with the nervous system to trigger diverse effects, such as reduction of inflammation. CBD oil can decrease acne because of its anti-inflammatory characteristics that act to reduce the visible inflammation induced by clogged hair follicles. It stimulates the endocannabinoid system, which includes anandamide, a neurological transmitter that regulates cell growth. If not balanced, it can negatively affect the skin. CBD oil also helps inhibit excessive oil secretion, which is one of the principal causes of acne.     Another benefit of CBD oil over prescription medications is that it solely targets the problem-causing cells. It does not affect the healthy cells thus reducing side effects such as dry and irritated skin.   The easiest way to use CBD oil for acne is in a topical form, such as a cream or lotion. But you can also take CBD oil supplements in the form of pills.   2. CBD Oil for Itchy and Dry Skin: Eczema is another very common skin condition that causes the skin to become dry, itchy, red, and cracked. It is often recurring and chronic. There are numerous treatment options but unfortunately, there is no cure. The cause of this skin malady is not very well understood yet. Conventional treatments such as topical steroid creams (corticosteroids) have shown mixed results. Also, prolonged use of such creams causes undesirable side effects. However, according to the National Eczema Association (NEA): “It has long been observed that cannabinoids possess anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-itch qualities” with research dating back to the first textbook of dermatology referencing a use for cannabis in treating skin conditions. The anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties of cannabinoids applied topically may help improve eczema. According to researchers at the University of Colorado, CBD can be used as a natural alternative to commonly-used steroids. One of the leading researchers, Dr. Robert Dellavalle, said: “There’s a large segment of the population that doesn’t like using steroids, even if they are topical steroids on their skin. CBD could be an alternative, natural product for them to try.” Several researchers maintain that CBD offers immense potential in regulating natural skin processes. Besides, the new topically-applied treatments of CBD have already been cleared by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as having no potential for abuse or harm, as various clinical trials have marked positive outcomes on the symptoms of Eczema. CBD oil for eczema can also be taken in the form of capsules or sublingually. 3. CBD Oil for Redness and Skin Bumps:   Rosacea is a common chronic skin condition among people with fair skin. Its symptoms are facial redness or “flushing” of the skin, which is often accompanied by small, pus-filled bumps or pimples. It can also cause red, watery eyes; dry, swollen skin; and a burning or itchy feeling. This very visible affliction is often the source of low self-esteem and social anxiety. As in the case of eczema, rosacea has no known cure. However, its symptoms can be controlled with a variety of approved treatments such as oral or topical antibiotics and steroidal creams or gels. Again, these treatments are long-term, so there are bound to be some side-effects. Constant use of oral antibiotics can cause stomach ailments like nausea, and topical antibiotics can lead to more skin problems such as itchiness, inflammation, and hives. Also, long-term use of steroidal creams can worsen the symptoms. Because cannabis is a powerful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory, CBD oil can help decrease the redness and inflammation. Stress and anxiety often trigger flare-ups, but they can be better managed with the use of CBD. A study conducted by the University of Bonn, Germany, in 2013, uncovered that the topical administration of THC helped decrease the symptoms of inflammation which are allergy-induced. The researchers concluded that this has “important implications for the development of future strategies that use cannabinoids in the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases” such as rosacea.   So, the best way to use CBD oil for treating rosacea is the topical administration of creams or ointments. Oral administration of CBD oil can also be very beneficial.   4. CBD Oil for Scaly and Itchy Skin:   Another itchy and often painful skin condition is psoriasis. It occurs due to rapid overproduction of skin cells that build up on the surface of the skin. Occasionally the skin patches can crack and bleed. People with psoriasis may also experience swelling and inflammation in other parts of the body.   Unfortunately, psoriasis too is a chronic skin condition, currently without any cure. Its treatments include steroid creams, occlusion, light therapy and oral medications, such as biologics. But again, all the treatments are having a long-term administration which results in them becoming less effective over time (along with side-effects). A 2007 study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science observed that CBD may offer curative value for psoriasis by slowing down the overgrowth of certain skin cells. Also, a 2016 review supports the idea that cannabinoids may prove to be useful for the treatment of psoriasis. Anecdotal evidence shows that topical CBD oil supplies a significant volume of moisture to the affected site which helps heal broken and cracked skin. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory qualities of cannabidiol alleviate the burning and flaking of patchy skin, reducing redness and dryness almost instantly.   Injury or infections to your skin can produce flare-ups, but the antioxidant components of CBD oil can mitigate the infection that aggravates the conditions. 5. CBD Oil for Cold Sores Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) which occur in the form of tiny, fluid-filled blisters on and around your lips. They are contagious and spread easily by casual contact. Thus, they are very common.   They usually resolve by themselves within two to four weeks, however, the virus remains in the bloodstream and can be reactivated repeatedly. Besides being painful and itchy, cold sores can cause a fever and make you feel self-conscious.   While not yet concretely confirmed, in addition to being a powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant, CBD oil also possesses anti-viral properties. Usually, people prefer to apply infused topical CBD creams and ointments directly to cold sores, however, using CBD in the form of oil tinctures is a smarter way. This is because oil tinctures pack more CBD molecules in a smaller volume and are more potent than creams. Consequently, oil tinctures fight HSV-1 pathogens and clear up the inflammatory-induced sores and blisters at a quicker rate. To use CBD in the form of oil tinctures, simply apply it to the affected regions and massage gently for about 90 seconds to allow proper absorption.   A Word of Caution If you’re planning on using CBD oil for any skin problem, or even in general, make sure to pay close attention to the product you’re picking. For the past three years, the FDA has been issuing letters of warning to many companies for touting “CBD oils” that contain nominal amounts of active cannabinoids, thus duping customers.   Always talk to your doctor before going down this relatively new path of treatment. Above all, stay vigilant, stay safe!   Author Bio: Joy Smith is a speaker, mentor, and entrepreneur. After trying a number of poor quality CBD products, she teamed up with her family to develop an organically grown, full spectrum hemp oil to help people suffering from several ailments.  

Possessing advanced degrees can open job opportunities that offer incentives such as health insurance coverage. Additionally, the Brookings Institution indicates that a post-secondary degree can serve as a buffer against unemployment during economic downturns. There is no question that research supports pursuing a higher education. The potential value of the degree goes beyond finances, and has direct correlations to physical, mental, and emotional health. Plus, you can share the benefits of a higher education with your family and those closest to you. To learn more, check out this infographic created by Maryville University.

In today’s competitive academic environment, being a student can be stressful. But managing the many responsibilities of school while struggling with a mental health issue can be even more challenging. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 1 in 6 people in the United States are diagnosed with some form of mental illness. Yet the stigma attached to mental illness prevents many from seeking the appropriate treatment, raising the need for increased awareness about mental health resources for students.

Todd Keane will moderate this panel of three difference-makers. Foaud Masri founded Crescent Project out of a passion for sharing the love of Christ with Muslims. Audrey Frank travels around the globe teaching about the honor-shame worldview, and the glorious God who removes our shame, giving honor instead. Carol Davis raises awareness of worldwide events and helps give clarity in practical next steps for believers.

Kareema had been suffering from back pain for years. She’d sought treatment from doctors, physical therapists, and even folk healers. But none of them found a physical source of her pain. Then, at a relative’s wedding, Kareema met Frontiers worker Vicky and her friend Miriam, a Muslim background believer. As the three women chatted, Kareema shared about her back pain. Miriam began praying silently. What if God wants to heal Kareema right here and now, in front of all her relatives? Miriam wondered. When she asked if they could pray for her, Kareema accepted the offer. They prayed, but at first, there was no improvement to her back. THIS IS A SEASON OF HARVEST IN KAREEMA’S COUNTRY. But after they prayed a second time, Kareema became startled. She moved around, bending forward and twisting her back. “I’m healed,” she announced. “The pain in my back is gone!” Kareema praised God for healing her back. As they rejoiced together, Vicky said to her, “This physical healing is just one of the signs God gives you to show you how much He loves you. He also offers you spiritual healing for your heart.” Vicky and Mariam explained that, through God’s gift of Jesus Christ, we can be forgiven our sins and spend eternity with Him. And then, with her entire family as witnesses, Kareema held out her hands in prayer and accepted Christ’s gift of spiritual healing. “This is a season of harvest,” Vicky reports. As she, her teammates, and other believers pray with Muslims for physical healing, God is opening doors to share the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. And every week, more Muslims are entering the Kingdom and receiving His gift of forgiveness and eternal life. Thank God for preparing the hearts of Muslim men and women in this region to receive Christ’s offer of healing and salvation—and pray for many more to enter the Kingdom. Read at https://frontiersusa.org/blog/healings-and-the-harvest/   Katie Beck Senior Field Biographer   **Names have been changed for security  

Similar articles can be found on my blog Medical Missions 101 Understanding Global Access to Health Care as a Social Justice Issue I believe global lack of access to health care for the poor is one of the most pressing social injustices of our world today.  In reviewing the global health inequities it is very hard not to see this as a social justice issue. One study that appeared in the Lancet tells us that at least 4·8 billion people in the world do not have access to surgery. This equates to greater than 95% of the population in south Asia and central, eastern, and sub-Saharan Africa not having access to surgical care. Whereas less than 5% of the population in Australia, high-income North America, and western Europe lack access (Alkire, et al., 2015). A Global Health Care Workforce in Crisis The global health care workforce is in crisis, so the need for global health engagement has never been greater. The World Health Organization (WHO) tells us there is a need for another 7.2 million health workers in the developing world and this shortage is expected to grow to 12.9 million by 2035 (World Health Organization, 2013). The WHO also warns that if this crisis is not addressed now to slow or stop the growth of this shortage, it will have serious implications for the health of billions of people across all regions of the developing world. Global Health Inequities The World Health Organization (WHO) also tells is that 5.9 million children under age five died in 2016, about 16,000 every day. The risk of a child dying before the age of five is still highest in the Sub-Saharan Africa at 81 per 1000 live births, which is an incredible seven times higher than in developed nations. Compare that with the WHO European Region where that number is 11 per 1000 live births. The under-five mortality in low-income countries remains unacceptably high averaging 76 deaths per 1000 live births. This is about 11 times the average in developed countries, which is 7 deaths per 1000 live births (World Health Organization, 2017) (United Nations inter-agency group for child mortality estimates, 2015). Maternal mortality is also a enormous problem. 830 young women loose their lives each day ( about 330,000 annually) due to complications and 99% of those deaths are in developing countries; a direct result of lack of functional functional healthcare systems with surgical capabilities (World Health Organization, 2018).  A True Social Justice Issue One way to spot a true social justice issue is look where the Christians are working on behalf of the poor. Out of all the players in global health care, Christians have been by far the most actively  engaged in this problem. However, I fear this high level of engagement is now changing. There have been hundreds if not thousands of mission hospitals founded by many Christian denominations, these mission hospitals are often the only access to lifesaving healthcare for vulnerable populations. Motivated by faith and passion to share the compassion, love and mercy of Christ nearly every Christian denomination created hospitals and health programs to care for the poor globally. The Role of the Church in Global Health Care Christian Mission hospitals and health programs account for about 50% of all healthcare delivered in Sub-Saharan Africa (Olivier, et al., 2015). That figure is probably closer to 70% of the truly functional healthcare services delivered.  Sadly however, many of these Christian facilities are closing, those that remain are fighting for survival. This is not isolated to African countries, a recent report  tells us there have been approximately 200 Christian hospital closings in India alone in the last two decades. These facilities are often in remote rural locations making it difficult to attract and keep national health professionals and the only access to lifesaving healthcare for vulnerable populations. Christian missionary physicians and nurses started these facilities and have staffed them since their inception, however there are no longer enough medical missionaries to staff them. Our best estimates are that there are only about 1300 missionary healthcare providers  still serving full-time around the world. This is not nearly enough to cover even a small percentage of the need. This has left many poor communities without any access to functional healthcare, or the Christian witness these facilities once provided. As a global Church we cannot disengage from health care,  it is part of our identity as a faith community. It is no accident that out of the nearly 4,000 verses in the 4 gospels, 727 of them have to do with healing. The Churches role in health care for the poor globally is, and should continue to be, our tangible expression of Christ to the nations that we cannot abandon. Alkire, B., Raykar, N., Shrime , M., Weiser, T., Rose , J., Nutt, C., . . . Farmer, P. (2015, June). Global access to surgical care: a modelling study. The Lancet, 3, 316-323. United Nations inter-agency group for child mortality estimates. (2015, September). Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimates. New York: UNICEF. Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/publications/files/Child_Mortality_Report_2015_Web_9_Sept_15.pdf  World Health Organization. (2013, November 11). WHO Media Center . Retrieved from World Health Organization : http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2013/health-workforce-shortage/en/ World Health Organization. (2018, February). Fact Sheet on Maternal Mortality. Retrieved from World Health Organization Newsroom Fact Sheets: http://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/maternal-mortality  

Intended for Physical Therapist and Occupational Therapist s to learn how to prepare for and then serve in a therapy clinic on a short term ( 1-2 weeks) medical missions trip. This session will teach needed preparations and expectations of a short term physical therapy medical mission trip.