Our entire staff is dedicated to good stewardship of our time, talents and resources. One of the ways we choose to invest those things is in a variety of mission trips to other countries. We'd like to share a little bit about these adventures with you, as a means of helping others see the results of serving those less fortunate than ourselves.

Taking Dentistry to the Hills and Valleys of Panama

Dr. Tischler is convinced of the need to share his professional expertise with those who need it…even beyond the confines of his local practice. That's why he regularly takes part in medical-dental missions trips to Latin America, as part of Christian Medical Missions, Incorporated. Through CMMI, Dr. Tischler has provided dental care to the Kuna and Embera Indians, the Wounaan Indians, and the Ngobe Bugle Indians…all located in Panama.

Each mission trip includes an entire team of medical experts: one or two doctors, one or two dentists, an optometrist, a couple of nurses, five translators, and various support volunteers. The team establishes a temporary clinic and pharmacy to provide medical/dental screenings, extractions, fillings, eye exams, glasses, medication, and referrals. Because people come for care from miles around, the team finds many opportunities to improve immediate health concerns, and to promote long-term self-sufficiency as well. From helping obtain grant money for a locally operated water-purification system, to training of local people in areas of basic medical screening, to providing educational funds for promising medical/nursing students…the time and effort invested by the CMMI team pays off in a myriad of important ways.

According to Dr. Tischler, successful medical missions service requires more than just the professional skills each team member provides. Critical to the success of each trip, is a shared willingness to be flexible in any circumstance, an ability to tolerate uncomfortable physical conditions, and a desire to selflessly serve underserved people. And not surprisingly, the medical team gains just as much as they give: obtaining a refreshing new perspective and appreciation for the many blessings we often take for granted in our modern society. For more information about CMMI, please visit their website at www.christianmedical.org.