Twenty-three volunteers journeyed to the small central community of Nombre de Jesus, in the Chalatenango district of El Salvador from November 1-16, 2008. They provided medical care to 1400 patients, over 8.5 clinic days, from this town and surrounding communities. Many families walked for hours and hours to reach the clinic, carrying small children and travelling over gravel roads wearing shoes that were often threadbare.
Every person received one on one counselling on chronic disease management. They were screened for a wide variety of health issues, as well as more common local problems, such as parasite infections, fungal infections of the skin and infestations. All patients were offered medical consults and arrangements were made for follow up for any problems identified. Free supplies were also distributed, including: toothbrushes, soaps and shampoo, hats, shoes, eye glasses, medications, bandages and ointments. Every child received a small toy.
