Healthcare Internships in Peru

The Medical Internship in Cusco, Peru is designed for interns who are currently enrolled in, or have recently completed, a medical degree from an university. A prior academic or professional background in the medical field is mandatory to participate in this program.

This is the main criteria to qualify for the medical internship. Participants with medical work experience but who are not currently enrolled in a medical university will not qualify for this program and should instead apply for the Pre-Medical Observership Program.

In addition, interns can choose to do part of their internship with specialist with placements available in: Radiology, Pulmonology, Physiotherapy, Dentistry, Cardiology, ENT (Otolaryngology), Obstetrics, Traumatology, Laboratory, pharmacy and Ophthalmology.

This internship provides invaluable insight into the practical realities of medicine, while allowing interns to experience the cultural richness of Cusco, a city known worldwide for its history, traditions, and proximity to Machu Picchu.

Sample Placement Profile

• Community health centers in Cusco – Placement in some of the largest community clinics in the region, with exposure to multiple wards including, First aid room, obstetrics, dentistry, vaccination, maternal and child health, general medicine and pharmacy services. 

• Private Clinics (Specialist Placements) – Opportunities to shadow medical specialists across diverse fields such as Radiology, Pulmonology, Physiotherapy, Dentistry, Cardiology, ENT (Otolaryngology), Obstetrics, Traumatology, Laboratory, pharmacy and Ophthalmology.

• Community Projects – Involvement in healthcare awareness campaigns, preventive health workshops, and local initiatives to promote well-being in underserved communities. 

The Pre-Medical Observership Program in Cusco, Peru is designed for participants who are not currently enrolled in a medical or nursing degree from a recognized university, but who have some prior knowledge and/or experience in the healthcare sector. Participants with no demonstrable knowledge or background in healthcare cannot be enrolled in the program.

Peru provides free healthcare services to all its citizens through public hospitals and community health centers. In Cusco, these public facilities are essential in delivering care to diverse populations, especially under served rural and low-income communities. Students in this program are placed in public medical centers, where they will observe different departments and specialties, including:

•    General Medicine
•    Dentistry
•    Nursing Services (including vaccination programs)
•    Urgent Care Center
•    Obstetrics
•    Pharmacy

It is important to note that participants will only observe and will not be allowed to perform hands-on medical procedures, ensuring both patient safety and adherence to Peruvian healthcare regulations.

Through this experience, participants gain a deeper understanding of the public healthcare system in a developing country, the role of different healthcare professionals, and the medical challenges faced in the Andean region. They will also be exposed to common conditions such as respiratory diseases, gastrointestinal infections, and altitude-related illnesses.

In addition to hospital and clinic shadowing, participants may also take part in community-based health promotion activities, offering valuable insights into preventive medicine and public health initiatives.

The program further provides opportunities for cross-cultural interaction with Peruvian doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff, helping students enhance both their academic perspective and cultural awareness.

NOTE: Doctors’ schedules vary by day, with availability in morning, afternoon, or evening hours, and interns are expected to adapt to the specialists’ shifts.

The Dental Elective Internship in Peru is tailored for dentistry students looking to enhance their practical skills by working alongside experienced local dentists. The scope of your involvement will depend on your academic training and clinical experience—from assisting with dental procedures and sterilizing instruments to more hands-on tasks if your qualifications allow.

Daily responsibilities vary, but interns typically work 4-5 hours per day, leaving evenings and weekends free for travel and exploration.

Note: This program is ideal for dental students seeking practical, real-world experience to complement their studies before entering the professional field.

What to bring for your Dental Elective Program?

Each student must bring the following items :-

• Periodontology kits (x2)

• Conservation kits (x2)

• 50 dental needle (different sizes)

• 01 white medical jacket and Scrubs (to wear daily)

• Box of surgical gloves (x2)

• Alcohol wipes (x2)

• Gauze (x50)

• Medical cotton (x4)

• Dental composite resins (white filling)

Interns participating in this project need to bring their own materials to develop dental cures and prophylaxis (it is mandatory).