Myungsung Christian
Medical Center
Ethiopia, Africa
Origin Story & Hospital Summary:
Myungsung Christian Medical Center (MCMC) was established by the Myungsung Presbyterian Church of Korea. In 1993, Pastor Kim Sam-whan visited Ethiopia and was inspired to help after witnessing the local poverty. Following discussions with the Ethiopian government, the church decided to build and operate a hospital as an expression of gratitude for Ethiopia's support during the Korean War. MCMC opened in 2004, and in 2012, Myungsung Medical College was established. The hospital is located in the southeastern part of Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia.MCMC is a 248-bed facility offering comprehensive medical services including general surgery, orthopedics, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology. The hospital also provides specialized care in neonatology, nephrology, oncology, and plastic surgery. The MCMC compound includes two main wings, the Shalom Wing and the Grace Wing, as well as Myungsung Medical College, which offers a six-year curriculum with internships.
Technology & Capacity:
MCMC is equipped with modern medical technology including fixed X-ray machines, multiple ultrasound machines, CT scanner with high-resolution angiogram capabilities, mammography, and basic interventional radiology. The hospital performs over 3,000 major and 5,500 minor operations annually. Anesthesia is provided by nurse anesthetists with support from three anesthesiologists using spinal, Ketamine, and general anesthesia techniques.
Church and Governance:
MCMC is equipped with modern medical technology including fixed X-ray machines, multiple ultrasound machines, CT scanner with high-resolution angiogram capabilities, mammography, and basic interventional radiology. The hospital performs over 3,000 major and 5,500 minor operations annually. Anesthesia is provided by nurse anesthetists with support from three anesthesiologists using spinal, Ketamine, and general anesthesia techniques.
Training Opportunities:
MCMC offers extensive training opportunities through its partnership with the Pan African Academy of Christian Surgeons (PAACS) and Myungsung Medical College. The hospital hosts medical students, residents, and volunteers, providing hands-on clinical training and formal lectures. Volunteers are encouraged to participate in teaching and mentoring local medical staff and students.
Medical and Support Staff Needs:
Family Medicine
General Surgery
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Intensive Care
Pediatrics
Orthopedic Surgery
Anesthesia
Radiology
Language:
Amharic is the official language of Ethiopia, but English is widely spoken at MCMC. Most hospital staff and medical students are proficient in English, facilitating communication and teaching.
Housing & Food:
Volunteers are accommodated in the hospital's guesthouse with kitchen facilities for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are also provided in a hostel setting. Volunteers are responsible for their own meal preparation in the guesthouse, while all meals are provided in the hostel.
Travel:
Visitors typically fly into Addis Ababa and take a short drive on paved roads to MCMC. The hospital logistics coordinator assists with travel arrangements and provides orientation upon arrival.
Time Difference:
+5 hours daylight saving time, +6 hours Eastern Standard Time.
People and Local Religion:
The population served by MCMC consists of urban and rural residents from various ethnic backgrounds. English is commonly spoken, and the hospital also caters to speakers of Amharic, Somali, Arabic, and other local languages.
Climate:
Addis Ababa has a mild climate with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 85°F during the dry season and from 45°F to 75°F during the rainy season. The elevation of 8,000 feet ensures moderate temperatures without the need for air conditioning.
Unique Challenges:
MCMC addresses a range of health issues including infectious diseases, trauma from accidents, chronic respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and surgical emergencies. The hospital's comprehensive services include specialized care in neonatology, oncology, and plastic surgery.
Evangelism Opportunities:
MCMC integrates medical care with spiritual outreach, providing compassionate healthcare in the name of Jesus. The hospital hosts long-term and short-term medical mission trips, offering opportunities for volunteers to engage in both medical service and evangelism.
For more information or to volunteer, please visit Myungsung Christian Medical Center and Myungsung Medical College.