Content Resources

What is a call? How does a person know if God is calling them to mission service? Join in a discussion as these and other questions are addressed. Speaker(s): Rebekah Naylor B.A., M.D Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/a-call

In this session, we will review 10 potentially practice-changing articles for primary care in the developed and developing world from 2020-2025 and will present each of these articles in a few minutes, critically appraising the articles and highlighting the positives and negatives of each. We will also discuss issues related to the applicability of this research in different settings. Speaker(s): Philip Dooley; Jeff Leman Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/top-10-research-papers-in-global-health

Have you ever considered how your professional skills can be used to advance God’s kingdom? Your career and ministry should not function separately — your career is your ministry. Speaker(s): Brian C.; Wes Sheffield Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/ministry-in-the-marketplace

What else might be asked of a physician, dentist, nurse or other healthcare professional serving cross-culturally that may stretch, challenge, and sometimes frustrate the committed and called servant of Christ? Being prepared for such extra tasks and determining to be flexible and joyful might just surprise the new (or old) healthcare missionary who humbly approaches the extended job description. Speaker(s): Dave MD, MA (Bioethics) Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/the-healthcare-missionary-job-description-you-want-me-to-do-what

There are so many options of sending agencies, that many potential missionary workers don’t know where to begin. As a result, they often get overwhelmed and paralyzed. We help make that journey manageable by teaching you what to look for to find your best-fit sending agency. Speaker(s): Josiah Harling; Steve Harling Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/finding-your-best-fit-mission-agency

Short-term missions. Whether you have participate in many or are just considering finding your first one, short-term mission trips do a lot of good around the world. We will be discussing five principles to ensure that our short-term mission efforts have a long-term and sustainable impact on those with whom we serve. Speaker(s): Jaime Saint Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/five-principles-for-long-term-sustaining-impact-on-short-term-trip

India distinguishes itself as one of the worst places in the world to die (Lancet 2015). In rural areas, because of a severe lack of access to appropriate health care, disease often simply ravages the bodies of our precious people completely unchallenged. A host of factors preclude good quality of remaining life, and a good death. Home based palliative care in this scenario is a breath of fresh air, bringing relief, comfort and hope, thus affirming the dignity of human life grounded in Imago Dei Speaker(s): Ashita Singh Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/impact-of-a-replicable-model-of-palliative-care-in-underserved-rural-indian-communities

After a brief overview of the global challenges that human Trafficking presents, we will discuss the role of Christians in the fight. We will present a situation report and tools that Medical Ambassadors International uses to address the problem from a grassroots perspective. We will showcase partnerships with local actors, teaching resources used in different cultural settings and the impact of networks to eliminate Trafficking. Speaker(s): Dr. Bibiana Mac Leod, MD; Zuzana Polackova MS,M.Ed Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/taking-action-against-human-trafficking-from-within-communities

Refugees & Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) face significant challenges to their health & well-being. Caring for people in these situations requires an understanding of their unique needs as well as having realistic goals regarding what can & cannot be done for them. Our experiences in providing healthcare for the victims of in Zaire, Indonesia, Pakistan, Myanmar, Afghanistan, Honduras, Nepal, Kurdistan, Turkey, Ukraine, Haiti, Philippines, & other places – both natural & manmade – highlight the need to be well prepared when serving in these difficult situations. Speaker(s): Mitch Duininck MD, FAAFP Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/caring-for-victims-of-humanitarian-disaster-and-military-conflict

Overview: Valley Christian Schools, a private Christian institution, faced a unique challenge: offering a growing number of mission trips with hundreds of their students in a highly condensed timeframe. The logistical complexity was overwhelming, until they partnered with ServiceReef. Now, with a streamlined system that serves students, parents, and staff alike, mission trips have become a celebrated part of the school's culture. In the words of Dr. Greg Tonkinson, the Director of Spiritual Life, “It has become the backbone of these trips. It was exactly what we were looking for.”   The Challenge: Managing Potential Chaos Across Continents Valley Christian’s mission program began humbly in 2016 with a single trip. But what started as a class project led by a passionate teacher soon blossomed into a school-wide initiative with trips to Costa Rica, Curacao, Romania, Australia, and more. “We were excited, but our team had no idea how to really do this,” Taylor, one of the coordinators, shared. Using ill-fitting software and disjointed communication, the team struggled with paperwork, fundraising, missed emails, and parent confusion. “It was like the blind leading the blind, hunting and pecking on this massive platform… failing miserably.” Dr. Greg admitted. Despite the friction, their program grew. But after COVID-19 and a renewed sense of mission, Valley Christian needed a new platform—something that could handle the size, scope, and structure of their vision.   The Turning Point: Discovering ServiceReef A referral led them to ServiceReef. The difference was immediate. “We fell in love with it—because of the customer service and because the tool is so comprehensive,” Greg said. “We’ve grown this process together with the ServiceReef team.” What truly set ServiceReef apart was the partnership. COO Micah and his team didn’t just sell software—they co-created solutions and offered personalized support. “When we came with our school-specific needs, they said, ‘Let’s make it happen,’” Dr. Greg shared. “The development team listened to our chaperones' needs, and when we rolled out the changes, the room literally erupted in applause.”   The Results: A Culture Transformed Since adopting ServiceReef, the transformation has been nothing short of extraordinary: Recently, they managed 15 mission trips simultaneously and plan to do more   $900,000+ raised through centralized fundraising this past season   250+ students and staff mobilized and impacted for the better   All communication, paperwork, fundraising, and logistics handled in one place   Every document—passports, medical forms, parental consent, insurance—is all uploaded and accessible. That’s not just helpful. That’s essential for safety, liability, and peace of mind for the school administration as well as the students and their families. “Honestly, you cannot fall back on manual processes when you’re offering this program at this scale.” Taylor said. As a parent himself, Dr. Greg offered perhaps the most heartfelt endorsement: “I have five kids, four have been on trips. I can see every one of them in the ServiceReef dashboard, even trips they’ve been on several years ago. It's all there on one screen. It’s a huge win. And I can rejoice in those memories and the impact.”   Why It Works: Simplicity, Support, and Security The team emphasized three key benefits: Simplicity yet Comprehensive: “Everything you need is right here. No more juggling multiple platforms. And trying to get our teams and parents to remember all that. Just one site. One login. All your answers.”   Unmatched Customer Service: “We know the COO. We know Emily. These aren’t just names—we have relationships with the people running this tool. That’s very different from other larger software companies.”   Security & Scalability: “We’re sending minors across the world. ServiceReef gives us the infrastructure to do that responsibly, safely, and excellently.” That helps cover us as an organization, but also we and the parents obviously care about these students so this gives us more peace of mind too.”     Impact Beyond Logistics ServiceReef isn’t just helping Valley Christian manage documentation and other processes—it’s empowering students and connecting families to life-changing experiences. Ultimately, it’s serving the Great Commission. “Parents can read their kids’ trip blog entries inside the platform. I just read about Tanzania, Australia, and Brazil. Students witnessing miracle births in less than optimal conditions. Students feeling a call to ministry after their trips. And I’m in awe and glorifying God for these stories!” What began as a leap of faith into missions has now become a pillar of school culture, powered by a platform that enables growth, excellence, and lasting impact. “The students care about the mission they go on. They don’t necessarily care about the platform, but we care about the platform because we know we have to do all this with excellence. ServiceReef has truly become the backbone of this program. We could not be happier!” >> DOWNLOAD THE FULL CASE STUDY HERE.

I have been pursuing missions as a single female for the past 10 to 15 years. There are so many opinions from the church about what it means to be single and a believer, as well as being a single believer pursuing missions. I am no expert in the field of singleness, relationships, or dating. The goal of this session is to have a panel discussion of the extreme points of view on singleness in the church and try to find a more balanced approach to loving those who are single well in the church. Speaker(s): Clara Formby Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/seeking-truth-in-singleness

Bringing Dignity Through Skin Health: The Role of Missions in Dermatological Care in Underserved Regions Skin conditions might seem minor compared to other conditions like heart disease or infections—but in many underserved communities, they cause pain, stigma, and even long-term disability. Without access to dermatological care, treatable skin issues can become life-altering. Those pursuing medical missions have the opportunity to bring healing to both the body and the dignity of those affected. "And behold, a leper came to him and knelt before him, saying, 'Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.' And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, 'I will; be clean.' And immediately his leprosy was cleansed." — Matthew 8:3   Overlooked Burden of Skin Disease In low-resource regions, dermatological care is rarely prioritized. Yet skin diseases are among the most common health concerns worldwide, affecting children, farmers, the elderly, and those living in close quarters or poor hygiene conditions. Issues like fungal infections, eczema, leprosy, and scabies often go untreated for years—due to lack of access to modern treatments. What are the most common skin conditions in underserved regions? Some of the most prevalent skin diseases include bacterial infections, fungal rashes, scabies, and eczema. In tropical climates, neglected skin problems can lead to infections or long-term disfigurement. These are preventable with early diagnosis and care. The challenge of providing dermatological care in underserved regions is compounded by a shortage of specialists, limited access to affordable medication, and the stigma that often surrounds visible skin conditions. In many areas, dermatological care is a silent need. People suffer in silence, assuming there is no treatment or help available.   Healing in Every Layer When Jesus healed the man with leprosy, He addressed more than a skin disease—He restored dignity. That’s the call for missions today: to bring holistic healing that acknowledges both physical and emotional pain. Why is dermatological care important in global missions? Skin conditions can affect quality of life, cause chronic pain, lead to job loss, and even isolate individuals from their families and communities. Providing dermatological care in underserved regions not only treats the condition but also restores self-worth and human connection.   Mission-Driven Solutions for Skin Health When it comes to skin conditions, small interventions make a big impact. Mission teams focused on dermatology can offer: Diagnosis and treatment of common conditions Training for local health workers in basic dermatologic care Distribution of hygiene kits and education about skin hygiene Mobile clinics in remote areas for screening and care How can medical missions support dermatological care in underserved regions? By providing portable diagnostic tools, basic medications like antifungals and topical creams, and education around skin hygiene, we can create scalable impact. Training local health workers ensures that knowledge stays long after the mission ends. Some missions have also begun teledermatology projects, offering remote diagnosis and treatment guidance through mobile phones—an innovative step forward for dermatological care in underserved regions.   Creating Long-Term Change The goal of dermatology in missions isn’t just treatment—it’s transformation. By equipping local providers with knowledge and simple tools, skin health becomes something communities can manage and sustain on their own. When you restore someone’s skin, you often restore their confidence, their relationships, and their ability to engage in daily life with hope. What are sustainable strategies for dermatological care in underserved regions? Sustainable change comes through local empowerment: training health workers, developing skin health education programs in schools, distributing hygiene supplies, and integrating dermatological services into existing health infrastructure. Long-term dermatological care depends on trust. When communities are given tools and respect—not just prescriptions—they are more likely to embrace treatments and share knowledge. The stigma around skin disease can only be broken when treatment becomes normalized and accessible.   Support the Mission You can be part of this healing work. Support missions that bring dermatological care to communities who’ve waited too long to be seen and cared for. Even a small donation can fund topical medications, clean water access, or training sessions for rural health workers—all critical components of successful dermatological care. Every mission team that brings hope to one patient is building a future of healthier skin, stronger communities, and renewed dignity. "Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay." — Matthew 10:8 Partner with Medical Missions to make a difference.