Frequently asked questions
If your question isn't here, ask us. We would rather answer it than have you guess.
Walking into a community
Where does my money actually go?
If you give to Medfund directly (the Bolivian bank QR, Venmo, cash or goods in person), it goes to the patient, trip or event you chose, in full. Medfund pays the hospital, clinic, or pharmacy directly and takes nothing for overhead. Gifts made through Cup of Cold Water Ministries support Medfund's operations rather than one patient's bill; if you want one of those directed to a particular patient or trip, tell us and we will make the request.
Can I give to one specific person?
Yes, and that is how most people give. Pick someone from our patient stories and note their name with your donation, and it pays for their treatment specifically.
Is my donation tax deductible?
For donors in the US, yes, when you give through Cup of Cold Water Ministries. Medfund is a program fully supported by Cup of Cold Water Ministries, a registered 501(c)(3) organization. Those gifts support Medfund's operations.
What if a patient raises more than they need?
We will tell you. Anything beyond what a patient's care costs goes to the next patient waiting, and we will let you know where it went rather than quietly reassigning it.
How do you choose which patients to help?
We look for people with a treatable condition, an urgent need, and no other way to pay. We meet them, confirm the diagnosis and the cost with the provider, and only then do we ask anyone for money.
How do I refer someone who needs care?
Get in touch through our contact page. Tell us where they are, what they have been diagnosed with, which hospital or clinic is involved, and how to reach them. We cannot promise to take on every case, but we will look into it and be straight with you.
Can I volunteer?
Often, yes. Volunteers have helped at free clinics, transported medicine, brought donated supplies, and spent time with patients. What is possible depends on conditions on the ground, so ask us and we will tell you honestly what the situation is right now.
Do you work anywhere other than Bolivia?
No. Bolivia is where Medfund started and where our relationships are: with patients, with hospitals, and with the people who help us find the patients in the first place.
Will I find out what happened to the patient I helped?
Yes. We stay with patients through treatment and recovery, so we can tell you how it went. That is the whole point of doing this person by person.
Still wondering something?
Ask us directly. Questions about how donations are used are always fair game.
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