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40 Years of Impact
Train One Provider.
Improve Care for Generations.
For 40 years, Health Volunteers Overseas has strengthened health systems through education, partnership, and long-term collaboration. Together, we can build a healthier, more equitable future for the next 40 years.
By the Numbers
Where HVO Stands Today.
120
Active projects
24
Countries
3,100+
Health professionals trained annually
14,000
Volunteer assignments since 1986
Our Model
When one health professional gains new skills, the impact reaches far beyond them — strengthening colleagues, institutions, health systems, and ultimately the patients they serve.
One Provider
gains knowledge, skills and confidence.
Colleagues & Students
learn from what they share.
Their Institution
develops stronger curricula and protocols.
Local Health Systems
gain greater local expertise and leadership.
Patients
receive stronger care over time.
1986 – 2026
Forty Years of Impact
1986
Orthopaedics Overseas votes to create Health Volunteers Overseas
A small group of orthopaedic surgeons broadens its mission, adding anesthesia and serving seven countries with seven projects.
1994
New programs in rehabilitation, internal medicine and pediatrics open
HVO expands its reach, bringing education and mentorship to a wider range of specialties.
2001
The SEA-HVO Fellowship is established
A dedicated fellowship begins supporting anesthesia placements and deeper institutional partnerships.
2008
New programs in hematology, hand surgery and obstetrics & gynecology open
Partner institutions identify new priorities, and HVO builds programs around them.
2015
The Wyss Scholarship is established
A new scholarship widens access for partners pursuing international training opportunities.
2021
HVO debuts the Remote Education Interface
Virtual teaching tools extend mentorship and education to partners beyond on-site assignments.
2022
Projects reopen following COVID-19 shutdowns
In-person teaching resumes alongside the virtual channels built during the pause.
2026
Our hybrid model is stronger than ever
HVO serves 24 countries and maintains 120 projects in 19 specialty areas.
Our Community
The People Behind the Impact
HVO’s model depends on local partners, volunteers, and project leaders who share their expertise, shape the work, and carry that knowledge forward — improving care for their patients and training the next generation.
Local Partners
“All this now, the work of 40 physiotherapists, I used to do on my own. Without HVO volunteers, I would have collapsed. I am grateful for your friendship, your collaboration, for supporting me all through this time, and starting this HVO program in Bhutan.”
On-Site Coordinator Sanga Dorji — Rehabilitation, Bhutan
HVO Volunteers
“Think of each of us as a stone or as a pebble sitting on the bottom of a river, each in our comfortable little niche. If you take that river stone, pick it up, toss it into the river, there are ripples sent out in all directions. Being a volunteer with HVO is much like being that stone. Because your work, your interactions, and what you leave behind have ripple effects on the lives of others, and you may never know what they are.”
HVO Project Director Melanie Thomas — Oncology, Nepal
Project Leaders
“One of the most valuable lessons I learned from the HVO volunteers was the importance of learner-centered teaching and effective mentorship. This experience has significantly influenced my teaching practice and reinforced the importance of continuous learning and professional growth.”
Ms. Choki Dema — Dean of Nursing at Arura Academy of Health Sciences, Bhutan
Celebrating 40 Years
Throughout our 40th anniversary year, we are coming together with partners, volunteers, and supporters around the world to celebrate the people and relationships that have made this journey possible.
Featured Celebration
Thimphu, Bhutan
HVO partners, volunteers, and local health professionals gathered in Thimphu to celebrate four decades of collaboration, shared learning, and a healthier future.
Looking Ahead
Built for the Next 40 Years
The infrastructure is in place. The volunteer network is ready. With the right investment, HVO can extend its reach to more health systems, more clinical disciplines, and more health professionals seeking the training and partnerships that strengthen care in their communities.
Deepen Partnerships
Build on long-term relationships with institutions and local leaders.
Reach More Health Professionals
Expand proven education and mentorship where needs and opportunities align.
Strengthen What Lasts
Invest in education, local leadership, and teaching capacity that continue beyond any single assignment.
For 40 years, HVO has shown what is possible when health professionals have the opportunity to learn, lead, and teach others. Your support helps extend that impact to the next generation.