In 1966, the Diocese of Helena established the Clinica Maxeña as a Parish Mission Clinic, to provide both Preventive and Curative Medicine. Over the years, disease has become more complex, requiring improved health programs and services and a larger clinic staff.

The Clinic provides medical consult Monday through Friday, offers treatment for hydration, gives transfusions, monitors acute symptoms and utilizes a complete Diagnostic Laboratory. Approximately 30 patients are seen daily and over 9,000 Laboratory Diagnostic tests were performed in 2013. When needed, patients are transferred by town ambulance to the nearby National Hospital. A small Emergency Room treats patients with injuries from accidents and those in health crises. For complex diagnosis, such as Cancer, Aids, and some surgical procedures, the Clinica Maxeña has made alliances with local and other Missionary Health Programs, a national children’s hospital, and a national cancer center in Guatemala City.

Twice a year the Clinic provides a week-long Ophthalmology Surgery, and consult with specialists visiting from the United States. Many patients benefit from cataract surgery and other minor surgical procedures at minimal cost or in some instances free of charge.

In 1992, Clinica Maxeña established a Medicinal Mayan Plant Clinic and Garden. This Garden now has over 100 Medicinal plants and 25 Nutritional plants. This program produces Medicinal plants, provides consult, and offers Reflexology, a treatment offered by trained Mayan Health Promoters and a Mayan Auxiliary Nurse. This Plant Clinic also produces a high protein drink utilizing several natural sources, including soy, wheat, oatmeal, corn and other products, which is distributed free to children in the nutrition program and others requiring or requesting it. BuenVivir, our “Good Life Booth” in front of Clinic, provides Preventive health advice and organic snacks and refreshment daily to patients awaiting consult.

Preventive Medicine includes a Nutrition Project for malnourished children under 5 years and a Diabetic Club. Sustainable Agriculture is an important part of Preventive and Curative Medicine. Hunger and unemployment have increased alarmingly in the area with the failure of the coffee crop caused by a fungus which continues to affect the yearly harvest.

The Clinica Maxeña depends on the generosity of donors to assist patients unable to pay minimal charges by Clinic and for patients sent to other medical facilities for specialized care, and to offset the constantly increasing cost of medicines.  Unfortunately, the poverty-level of the local people is growing, resulting in more requests for no-cost medical assistance.

We are grateful for your interest and generosity.