Shalom Family
Medical Center
El Salvador, Central America
Origin Story & Hospital Summary:
Shalom Family Medical Center (SFMC) is a key project operated by Harvesting in Spanish (HIS), an independent, non-profit, interdenominational evangelical mission. Founded in 1977 by Don and Rose Ann Benner, HIS began as a literature ministry during a time of crisis in El Salvador. Over the years, it expanded to include multiple outreach projects, including the Shalom Children's Home, Oasis Children's Feeding Ministry, and the Shalom Family Medical Clinic. The medical center, located in Santiago Texacuangos, about 10 miles southeast of San Salvador's international airport, opened in October 2015 and serves a population of approximately 170,000 people.SFMC provides a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including pediatric and general care, gynecological and obstetric care with ultrasound facilities, dental care, and trauma/emergency services. The facility features six general exam rooms, a gynecological exam room, two dental chairs, an X-ray room, a basic pharmacy, a clinical laboratory, two trauma/emergency bays, administrative offices, a staff lounge, classrooms, a chapel, and offices for a psychologist and a social worker. Future development plans include an out-patient operating room, patient recovery room, and physical therapy area.
Technology & Capacity:
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Church and Governance:
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Training Opportunities:
SFMC offers significant opportunities for medical and dental students and professionals to gain practical experience in an international setting. Third and fourth-year medical students, interns, and fully licensed medical doctors staff the clinic, providing care and learning about tropical medicine and underserved populations. Volunteer opportunities are available for various medical professionals, including physicians, dentists, dental hygienists, nurses, and lab technicians.
Medical and Support Staff Needs:
Physicians
Dentists
Dental Hygienists
Nurses
Lab Technicians
Emergency Medicine Specialists
Paramedics and Trainers
Language:
Spanish is the official language, spoken by virtually all inhabitants. Volunteers must be able to communicate independently in Spanish.
Housing & Food:
Volunteers are housed in apartments at the Shalom Children's Home, equipped with air conditioning and fans. Amenities include a swimming pool and a basketball court, with the option for volleyball. Meals are provided at the Children's Home, and specific dietary needs can be accommodated with foods available locally.
Travel:
Visitors should fly into the international airport in San Salvador, where they can easily reach SFMC located about 10 miles southeast and 1,700 feet above sea level.
Time Difference:
+1 hour Eastern Standard Time (EST) from March through November; -2 hours EST from November through March.
People and Local Religion:
El Salvador's population is predominantly Christian, with Roman Catholics (47%) and Protestants (33%) being the major denominations. The evangelical population is rapidly growing. The remaining population includes Jehovah's Witnesses, Hare Krishnas, Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, Latter-Day Saints, and adherents of indigenous beliefs.
Climate:
El Salvador has a tropical climate with distinct wet (May through November) and dry (December through April) seasons. Santiago Texacuangos averages around 85°F, with most rainfall occurring in the late afternoon and at night during the rainy season.
Unique Challenges:
Common health issues in the area include malaria, pneumonia, tuberculosis, tropical diseases, and diabetes. There is a significant need for improved health education and medical services.
Evangelism Opportunities:
SFMC integrates its medical mission with evangelistic efforts, ensuring that every patient hears the gospel. The center serves as a spiritual and physical healing place, hosting both long-term and short-term medical mission trips. Financial and prayer support are crucial to continue this mission.
For more information or to volunteer, please visit harvesting.org/ministries/medical-clinic.