2024 International Medical Mission in Belize

Kaohsiung Medical University (KMU) proudly supports its students in gaining hands-on global healthcare experience through participation in international medical missions. One of the most impactful opportunities took place in 2024, when KMU students joined a humanitarian mission to Belize organized by the North American Taiwanese Medical Association (NATMA).

Under the leadership of KMU Distinguished Alumnus Dr. Charles C. Hsu, the Belize mission gathered over 70 participants, including 33 experienced physicians, dentists, and healthcare professionals from Taiwan and North America. The team collaborated closely with Belizean government agencies, local hospitals, and Taiwanese diplomatic offices across Central America to deliver essential medical services to underserved communities.

Each year, NATMA selects a group of passionate and capable KMU students to participate, providing each with up to USD 2,500 in travel grants. This initiative not only supports global health outreach but also cultivates cross-cultural understanding and social responsibility. In 2024, six KMU students were selected, representing the College of Medicine, College of Oral Medicine, and College of Pharmacy. Their roles included conducting preliminary consultations, gathering medical histories, and triaging patients under the supervision of licensed physicians. This collaboration demonstrated strong interdisciplinary teamwork and professional acumen.

For students, the experience served as a powerful reminder that medicine extends beyond clinical skills—it is about service, empathy, and global citizenship. Students were deeply moved by the real-world medical challenges faced by underserved communities. Through direct engagement, they developed not only practical skills but also the cultural sensitivity and compassion needed in today’s interconnected world. 

One notable moment occurred during the mission’s visit to Orange Walk Town, the hometown of Belizean Prime Minister Johnny Briceño. To the team's surprise, the Prime Minister personally joined the mission, symbolically rolling up his sleeves and participating alongside the medical team. His presence was an inspiring testament to the value of international collaboration and grassroots healthcare initiatives.

KMU student Yuan-Ai Tseng conducting basic vital sign checks and preliminary consultations during the overseas medical mission.

The mission’s scope extended from general health screenings and chronic disease management to public health education and preventive care. Even language barriers—given the prominence of Spanish among local residents—became an opportunity for growth, with some students relying on translation assistance and building creative communication bridges.

For many participants, the most touching moments came from the simple human connections: a child hesitant to speak eventually smiling after gentle encouragement from the team; a patient expressing gratitude with teary eyes. These encounters reminded students that healing starts with trust, and that their presence—however brief—could leave a lasting impact.

Beyond the clinical mission, students also participated in follow-up activities in California, visiting hospitals and exchanging insights with professionals in the United States. This additional leg of the trip expanded their international exposure and gave them a broader view of global healthcare systems.

KMU believes that education should inspire not only knowledge but also purpose and action. Through initiatives like the Belize medical mission, students gain clarity in their professional goals, experience the power of compassionate service, and learn what it means to bring about change—not just in hospitals, but in the world. 

“Medical outreach gave me more than experience—it gave me direction, purpose, and an unshakable belief in the role of medicine in advancing social justice,” shared one student from the Post-Baccalaureate Medical Program, reflecting on her journey from volunteering in a rural Taiwanese clinic to joining the team in Belize.

Belize Prime Minister Johnny Briceño personally visited the clinic site, joined students in providing medical care.

As KMU continues to champion global engagement, the university reaffirms its commitment to nurturing healthcare professionals who serve not only with knowledge, but with heart.