September 2026

Dear friends,

Just a few years ago, the WHO published data showing progress had been made on the global health worker shortage. New estimates, however, show that progress has slowed, with the projected shortage in 2030 increasing from 10.2 million to 11.1 million health workers.

As we celebrate HVO’s 40 years of impact, these numbers are also a reminder of the work still ahead and the importance of continuing to expand approaches that build lasting local capacity. HVO has grown from just nine projects in 1986 to 109 today, extending opportunities for education, mentorship, and professional development to health workers around the world. And the impact reaches far beyond those we train directly: health professionals share their skills with colleagues, mentor the next generation, and provide better care to patients for years to come. That is the ripple effect at the heart of HVO’s work and why investing in health workers remains as important today as it was 40 years ago.

Below, you'll also see an announcement of our 2026 HVO Photo Contest, a wonderful way for our volunteers, partners, and friends to share the moments that capture what these 40 years have meant to you. We can't wait to see what you share.

Sincerely,

April

April Pinner, MSPH, RD

Executive Director

This April 1986 newsletter from Orthopaedics Overseas captures a pivotal moment in HVO’s history. Recognizing that the model could reach far beyond a single specialty, the board voted to create Health Volunteers Overseas and open the door to health professionals across disciplines. Their foresight set HVO on the path to becoming the organization it is today, bringing together a global network spanning nearly 20 specialties to strengthen health care through teaching, training, and long-term partnership.

Read the full story of how years of continuing education and mentoring have grown the class of residents from two to 10 each year, with a multiplying impact at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital: Training Surgeons, Transforming Care

We're inviting all HVO community members to submit photos that capture the spirit of your work: the teaching, the learning, the connection, the challenges, the small moments that stay with you. Winning photos will be featured on the HVO website, our social media, and may be be printed and displayed. 

Hematology, Phnom Penh, Cambodia is recruiting hematology scientists with a special interest in flow cytometry, as well as hematology-oncology clinicians, nurses, and laboratory-based scientists to assist with monthly virtual lectures and case conferences and in-person assignments. Interested volunteers should contact Lauren Franklin.

Oncology, Honduras is recruiting in-person volunteers with experience in surgical or gynecologic oncology to provide teaching and training. Interested volunteers should contact Lauren Franklin.

Oral Health, Dhulikhel, Nepal is recruiting general dentists, dental assistants with a CDA or dental hygienists, and specialists for in-person and virtual assignments. Interested volunteers should contact Lauren Franklin.