As a medical volunteer in Ghana, you’ll gain firsthand experience and valuable insight into the Ghanaian healthcare system. PMGY’s Ghana volunteer programs offer an incredible blend of professional and cultural immersion. The medical project gives you the chance to explore various departments within a large government hospital, learning from dedicated local staff and actively contributing to their work.
Medical Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 3 For Improved Health
- Develop Your Medical Experience While Embracing A New Culture In Accra
- Support Patients Alongside Local Health Professionals In A Ghanaian Hospital
- Explore More Of Ghana With Weekend Trips To Cape Coast & The Volta Region
- Experience Ghanaian Culture Through Traditional Drumming & Local Dance
Background to the Medical Program
Since the introduction of the National Health Insurance Act in 2003, access to healthcare in Ghana has seen significant improvements. However, challenges persist, particularly in rural areas, where many patients seek treatment for illnesses caused by poor sanitation.
Malaria remains one of the leading causes of death and illness in Ghana, while HIV/AIDS continues to affect countless lives. Many of these health issues are preventable, making public health education a key focus alongside treating immediate cases. The healthcare system in Ghana works tirelessly to not only address urgent medical needs but also to educate local communities on preventative measures.
We offer medical placements for individuals from all backgrounds. Whether you’re a school leaver seeking work experience to strengthen your university application or a nursing/medical student arranging an overseas elective, we can cater to your needs.
PMGY’s volunteer opportunities in Ghana provide a valuable platform for learning and cultural immersion. As a medical volunteer in Ghana, you’ll gain firsthand exposure to healthcare practices and medical projects that may be completely different from those in your home country.
To make the most of your experience, you’ll need to effectively manage your time and skills during your project. By doing so, you’ll maximise your learning opportunities and fully engage with the unique aspects of healthcare in Ghana.
Medical Volunteer Placement Examples
Ledzokuku-Krowor Municipal Assembly (LEKMA) Government Hospital – Located in Teshie, Accra, LEKMA Hospital, also known as Ledzokuku Krowor Municipal Hospital, is a major government healthcare facility serving the densely populated Teshie and Nungua communities. Built to expand access to public healthcare, the hospital now supports a large local population and plays a key role in frontline medical services. As a medical volunteer in Ghana, you are likely to observe a range of departments, and to gain the most from your placement, it is recommended to spend at least one week in each area. These may include:
Accident and Emergency, General O.P.D, General Medicine, General Surgery, Laboratory, Maternity and Midwifery, Paediatrics, Nursing, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Pharmacy, Public Health.
Throughout your placement, you will shadow doctors, nurses, and other medical staff, observing patient consultations, ward routines, and treatment processes. This provides valuable insight into the day to day realities of Ghana’s public healthcare system, particularly within a busy and under resourced municipal hospital.
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Manna Mission Private Hospital – Situated in Teshie, Manna Mission Hospital is a private Christian hospital that has been serving local families and surrounding communities for over 20 years. The hospital is well respected for its compassionate approach to healthcare and its focus on supporting underserved populations. As a volunteer, you will observe and support work across several departments, including:
General O.P.D, Maternity and Midwifery, General Medicine, Laboratory, Nursing, Community Health Education.
Volunteers at Manna Mission Hospital assist with daily clinical routines, patient care support, and health education initiatives. You will have the opportunity to observe medical treatments, engage with patients where appropriate, and learn how faith based healthcare facilities operate alongside Ghana’s public health system.
Staff at both hospitals are welcoming and appreciative of volunteer support, creating a positive environment for learning and shared experience. You are likely to encounter a wide range of medical cases, including Malaria, Typhoid, respiratory infections, maternal health complications, and other conditions commonly seen in urban Ghanaian hospitals.
While both facilities use modern medical practices, you will also see firsthand the challenges of working within a system affected by limited resources, high patient numbers, and staffing pressures. As you complete your volunteer work in Ghana, you will gain meaningful insight into how social, cultural, and economic factors influence healthcare access and patient outcomes.
This program is well suited to school leavers and healthcare related undergraduate students seeking practical exposure in a real world medical setting. The role is primarily observational, offering a broad and realistic understanding of healthcare delivery in Ghana.
For medical, nursing, and midwifery students who require a specific elective placement, tailored program options are available. These can be adjusted to meet university requirements, and PMGY is happy to assist with documentation and paperwork, as Ghana remains a popular destination for elective healthcare placements.
Student Elective Opportunities
PMGY offers specialist elective placements for students in Ghana, providing a unique opportunity to gain invaluable international experience. Whether you’re pursuing a career in medicine, midwifery or nursing, our programs allow you to learn directly from health professionals in distinctive medical settings. As a medical volunteer in Ghana, you can specify your desired clinical elective during the online application process. Simply highlight your preferences in the ‘Special Requirements’ section, and the PMGY Ghana team will organise everything to ensure your elective placement runs smoothly.
Medical – During your medical elective in Ghana, you’ll be based at a government or private hospital in Accra. Shadow doctors and nurses on their daily rounds as they teach you about common diseases in Ghana, such as Malaria and Typhoid, including their diagnosis, management, and treatment. Outside the hospital, participate in rural outreach programs by conducting health checks in villages and supporting health education campaigns to raise awareness about key healthcare issues.
Midwifery – Gain invaluable experience on a midwifery elective in Ghana by observing qualified midwives in the maternity ward. You’ll learn about the challenges pregnant women in Ghana face and witness childbirth in the delivery room, comparing care practices to those in your home country. Be prepared for limited maternity support during labour and a lack of prenatal care. This eye-opening placement will give you a deep understanding of the realities of maternal healthcare in Ghana.
Nursing – Embark on a nursing elective in Ghana for an unforgettable learning experience! Shadow nurses in a government hospital as they perform daily routines, care for patients, monitor their conditions, and administer medication. Rotate across departments to observe a variety of illnesses, injuries, and treatment methods. You’ll also assist with community outreach work, conducting basic health checks such as cleaning wounds, testing for tropical diseases, and monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
Each elective offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of healthcare in Ghana while immersing yourself in a new culture.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
As a medical volunteer in Ghana, you’ll spend your time at either a Government or Private hospital, both of which offer structured observational learning experiences across multiple departments. During orientation, a local team member or hospital staff member will guide you through the hospital, introducing you to the layout and helping you meet the staff in each department. This introduction ensures you feel comfortable and ready to begin your placement.
Typically, as a medical volunteer in Ghana, you are at the project from Monday to Friday, working 3-4 hours each day from 9am to 1pm. Many participants take lunch to the project. Occasionally, you may have the option to experience a night shift. If you’re interested, you can arrange this with the local team once in Ghana. However, you’ll need to organise private transport for the night shift, as it falls outside regular program hours.
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Transport to and from your project location is not included in your Program Fee. Most volunteers travel by trusted, known taxi drivers who take them to and from the project site each day. During orientation, the local team will guide you on how to connect with these drivers and navigate the taxi system. The journey to your project location will take around 15 minutes every day.
This role provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Ghana’s healthcare system, observe local practices, and gain valuable insights as part of a medical volunteer abroad project.
Other Things to Consider as a Medical Volunteer in Ghana
Project Flexibility – As with all volunteer programs in Ghana, this project offers the flexibility to combine multiple placements. When applying, select your preferred start date and the duration for your first project. If you'd like to add extra weeks, please note this in your application, along with the project you'd like to extend.
Hands-On Involvement – The level of hands-on involvement at medical volunteer abroad projects depends on several factors, including your medical background, the length of your program, and your willingness to participate. The medical staff overseeing your work decides upon the extent of your involvement, ensuring all procedures are carried out responsibly.
Some previous participants in the medical volunteer in Ghana program have been allowed to administer IV injections, dress wounds, and perform other basic tasks. However, hands-on involvement cannot be guaranteed, regardless of your experience. Volunteers without medical training typically take on observational roles, while those pursuing medical studies may have the opportunity for more direct participation under supervision.
Trained Professionals – This program is not designed for trained professionals looking to practise medicine overseas. It is specifically tailored for school leavers and medical students who wish to learn about healthcare systems abroad and gain experience in a supportive environment.
Photos – Please note that photography is not allowed in clinical areas. Patients are often in vulnerable situations, and taking photos can compromise their privacy and dignity. Even if you witness something memorable or medically interesting, capturing images is not appropriate. You are welcome to take general photos outside of clinical settings, but always follow local guidance and respect the privacy of staff, patients, and the wider community.
Group Medical Trips – PMGY offers affordable group trips to Ghana for academic institutions and societies worldwide. for academic institutions and societies worldwide. With free travel for group leaders, these 15-day trips are fully structured and inclusive, led by experienced PMGY staff. Planning large group trips can be challenging, involving logistics such as flights, insurance, and pre-trip preparation. PMGY specialises in organising seamless group expeditions, offering trusted medical placements and full-board accommodation for students. Participants benefit from a rich, immersive experience that includes insight into healthcare challenges, exposure to local practices, and valuable learning opportunities.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Spend a weekend exploring Ghana’s Cape Coast and its stunning beaches. Walk the canopy bridges at Kakum National Park, visit Cape Coast Castle to learn about the slave trade, and relax in Butre’s rustic beach huts by the ocean. You can also try surfing at Busua Beach and join local fishermen in their daily routines.
Getting There
• 4 hours by private taxi or minibus
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included in trip price
Things to Do
• Canopy Walk – Included
• Local Village Visit – Included
• Surfing – Included
• Fishing Trip – Included
Experience Ghana’s largest wildlife reserve on safari at Mole National Park. Spot elephants, antelope, baboons, and warthogs on guided jeep and walking safaris, enjoy a canoe ride, and relax at the lodge pool overlooking the savannah.
Getting There
• 13 hours by private taxi or minibus
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included in trip price
Things to Do
• Jeep and Walking Safari – Included
• Canoe Ride – Included
• Cultural Performance and Village Tour – Included
• Waterfalls Visit – Included
Just a few hours from Accra, the Volta Region is known for its lush landscapes, peaceful villages, and some of Ghana’s most impressive natural attractions. It is an ideal weekend escape for anyone looking to recharge while exploring the outdoors.
Getting There
• 4 hours by private taxi or minibus
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included in trip price
Things to Do
• Hike to Scenic Viewpoints – Included
• Visit Wli Waterfalls – Included
• Swim in Natural Pools – Included
• Explore Local Villages – Included
Ada Foah is a peaceful coastal destination where the Volta River meets the Atlantic Ocean. It offers a laid-back atmosphere, making it ideal for a relaxing weekend by the water.
Getting There
• 3 hours by private taxi or minibus
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included in trip price
Things to Do
• Boat Ride on the Volta River – Included
• Kayaking and Water Activities – Included
• Relax on Quiet Beaches – Included
• Enjoy Fresh Seafood and Sunset Views – Included
Kumasi, the historic capital of the Ashanti Kingdom, offers a rich cultural experience and a deeper understanding of Ghana’s heritage. This trip is perfect if you are interested in history, tradition, and vibrant local life.
Getting There
• 6 hours by private taxi or minibus
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included in trip price
Things to Do
• Manhyia Palace Museum – Included
• Kejetia Market – Included
• Discover Kente Weaving – Included
• Learn about Ashanti Culture – Included
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- Relaxing surf lesson at a Ghanaian beach, featuring learners in bright orange shirts near a weathered surf school with gentle waves.
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- A cheerful woman interacts playfully with lively monkeys on a yellow car in rustic Ghana.
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- Children and adults enjoy a lush tropical walk through vibrant greenery and scenic hills, capturing a joyful moment of community and exploration.
Accommodation - Shared Option Available
Volunteer House
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
During your time on the Ghana volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House, located in a friendly neighbourhood approximately 45 minutes from Accra city centre. Restaurants, convenience stores and ATMs can be found locally, with a small shop also located close to the Volunteer House.
The Volunteer House provides a comfortable and social base where you will live alongside other PMGY participants. Bedrooms are arranged as same sex dormitories with bunk beds and accommodate up to 6 volunteers per room. Rooms have air conditioning, with bed linen and mosquito nets provided.
Bathroom facilities are shared with other volunteers and include western style toilets and showers. Shower water is cold, which is common locally and can be refreshing in Ghana’s warm climate.
The house has a communal lounge, TV and outdoor seating area where volunteers can relax and spend time together. Wi-Fi is also available, although the connection can occasionally be intermittent. A refrigerator is provided for storing food and drinks that need to be kept chilled.
Each volunteer has access to a locker for storing smaller valuables and important belongings. The Volunteer House is gated and overseen by an onsite local coordinator, providing convenient access to support throughout your stay.
Volunteers can hand wash their clothes at the house or use local laundry services nearby. Power cuts and temporary water shortages can occasionally occur in Ghana, although backup measures are in place to minimise disruption when possible.
Wi-Fi
Yes
People Per Room
Up To 6 (Shared)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
35 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
10 Minute Walk
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Ghana, you will receive three meals per day. Breakfast and dinner are served at the Volunteer House, while lunch is provided as a packed meal to take with you. Packet filtered water is also available at the accommodation for volunteers.
Ghanaian meals typically include lots of carbohydrates and may lack dairy or meat. Volunteers should approach local cuisine with an open mind and allow a few days to adjust to the new diet. Chicken, fish, and goat are the most common meats, while pork, lamb, and beef are less readily available and expensive. Fresh dairy products like milk and cheese are rare, with most milk being tinned. If you’re craving home comforts, there are Western, Chinese, and Indian restaurants about a 45-minute drive from the Volunteer House. During your orientation, the local team will provide you with details about these options.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Bread, Cereals, Milk, Spreads, Pancakes, Tea/Coffee
Lunch
Noodles, Rice, Sandwiches
Dinner
Rice, Chicken, Eggs, Spaghetti, Stew, Yams, Fufu, Soup
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes medical volunteers in Ghana of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all volunteers need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in Ghana will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a Ghana medical volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the medical projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation! However, please note that medical and healthcare projects often require additional documentation before participation begins in-country.
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Ghana medical program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
For your volunteer trip to Ghana, you should book your flights to Kotoka International Airport – Accra (airport code ACC) to arrive on the designated Sunday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Ghana medical volunteer.
Please check out our Chaperoned Flight options for group flights from London Heathrow on selected start dates.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Sunday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Ghana, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Ghana medical volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the Ghana medical volunteer program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Based on feedback from previous Ghana medical volunteers, we’ve found that 4-6 weeks is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering in Ghana. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore Ghana’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our Ghana medical volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in Ghana, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Ghana medical volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Ghana medical volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
