Through the work of Humanity First, the international NGO established in 43 countries, 29,000 underprivileged Guatemalans have been assisted in the past five years in numerous ways. Now, Humanity First's vision of providing equal healthcare access to all socioeconomic backgrounds is becoming a reality. Humanity First is moving ahead with their very first hospital in Latin America! More than 40% of Guatemalans don’t have access to health services, primarily due to the fact that only 7% of the country’s GDP is spent on healthcare. Access to private healthcare is extremely costly for more than half the poverty-stricken population. This hospital will allow Humanity First to serve both the short- and long-term needs of the local Guatemalan communities. The hospital, conveniently located on the lush grounds off the Inter-American Highway, will start as a 22-bed inpatient unit, surgical center, and maternity ward. The maternity ward is a crucial inclusion of the hospital, because of Guatemala's staggering annual maternal mortality rate (in the hundreds, and these are only the reported deaths). The remainder of the building will house outpatient services, allowing Humanity First to expand their preventive and diagnostic approach. Nasir Hospital will be a 24/7 emergency and obstetrical care facility. The hospital staff will be made up of local physicians, nurses, and administrators who will work hand-in-hand with our international volunteer base of 400+ physicians worldwide to bring quality care to the community. The program and operational goal of the project focuses on an efficient delivery model, with an emphasis on equitable access to healthcare for all. Previously serving communities through temporary, mobile medical clinics, Nasir Hospital will now enable Humanity First to provide this care in a high-quality, permanent setting. Construction to begin early 2016. We thank you for your support in our effort to continuously improve in serving humanity.
