Screening Process FAQ 

Does my volunteer need additional insurance? 

Please inquire if medical expenses accrued during your volunteer’s AMIGOS Project country will be covered under your volunteer's current health insurance plan. If the plan does not cover these expenses, you must purchase supplemental health insurance that covers any incurred medical expenses during your volunteer's AMIGOS Project. 

Please note that AMIGOS covers minor medical expenses up to $300 for each volunteer and does not seek reimbursement for these minor medical expenses. Health insurance will only be billed for expenses totaling over $300.

While AMIGOS does not officially endorse or recommend any particular supplemental health insurance provider, here are a few providers which offer these sorts of plans: 

What happens if my volunteer needs to bring medication to the program? 

Volunteers can bring prescription and over-the-counter medications as needed. Prescription medications must be disclosed during the health screening process, brought in their original packaging, and the name on the prescription must match the name on their passport. 

Please do not empty the prescription medicine in a bag or other container. Ensure that the prescription medicine is stored in the volunteer’s carry on in the event of lost luggage.  

Volunteers must bring enough medication to last the entire program. For special requirements such as refrigerated medications, AMIGOS staff can assist with proper storage and access. 

What immunizations are required? 

Volunteers must provide proof of all required immunizations outlined in the Required Immunizations List. 

What is the rabies pre-exposure vaccine series, and is it required? 

Per our Standards of Conduct, volunteers are not permitted to touch animals during their program, which significantly reduces the risk of rabies exposure. However, we strongly recommend that all volunteers receive the rabies pre-exposure vaccine. Volunteers who have not completed the 2-dose series may need to return to the United States to receive human rabies immune globulin (HRIG) following a potential rabies exposure, as it may not be readily available in-country.

Historically, AMIGOS has had very low rates of animal exposures requiring rabies post-exposure vaccinations—about 1 in 500 volunteers.

A 2-dose series providing baseline immunity against rabies simplifies post-exposure treatment. The vaccine is recommended but not required; discuss it with your healthcare provider.

What do I need to know about malaria prevention? 

Malaria prophylaxis is required for the following programs: 

Important: Volunteers should use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets if applicable.