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Screening Process FAQ 

4 min. readlast update: 02.27.2025

What health forms do I need to submit for my volunteer’s screening process? 

You will need to submit the AMIGOS Confidential Physical Health Form, a copy of the immunization record, and the Health Update Form. If applicable, the Confidential Mental and Behavioral Health Form must also be submitted by all treating clinicians. 

Mental Health Forms must be submitted for a volunteer who has seen a mental health professional within the past two years. This form must be completed by all treating providers.  

  • Example: Sally is taking an anti-depressant prescribed by her psychiatrist and seeing a therapist on a bi-monthly basis. We will need 2 Mental Health forms- one completed from the psychiatrist (prescribing provider) and one from the therapist. 

What happens if I have another health form from my medical provider (e.g.: Kaiser)? 

We understand that some medical providers, such as Kaiser, have policies preventing them from completing external health forms. In these cases, parents must submit the Kaiser form in place of a provider-completed AMIGOS Confidential Physical Health Form.  

However, per our policies, parents must also fill out the AMIGOS health form themselves, ensuring that it accurately reflects the information provided in the Kaiser form. Parents/guardians must review, complete, and sign the AMIGOS form to confirm its accuracy. 

Does my volunteer need additional insurance? 

It is important to check with your volunteer's current health insurance plan to see if the plan will cover medical expenses in the country of their AMIGOS Project.  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 request that families seek reimbursement for these minor medical expenses. 

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, there’s a section your health provider must complete on the Confidential Health Form, and brought in their original packaging with the name matching the prescription to 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 case of lost luggage.  

Volunteers are encouraged to 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. In the event of potential exposure, post-exposure treatment must be administered promptly and requires a two-week series of follow-up doses 

A 3-dose series providing baseline immunity against rabies, simplifying post- exposure treatment. The vaccine is recommended but not required. Discuss with your healthcare provider. 

What do I need to know about malaria prevention? 

Malaria prophylaxis is required for the following programs: 

  • Costa Rica: Marine and Mountain Exploration

  • Panama: Sustainability in the Rural Highlands 

  • Dominican Republic: ALL projects 

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

 

 

 

 

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