1. The Humanitarian imperative comes first.

2. Aid is given regardless of the race, creed or nationality of the recipients and without adverse distinction of any kind.  Aid priorities are calculated on the basis of need alone.

3. Aid will not be used to further a particular political or religious standpoint. 

4. We shall endeavor not to act as instruments of partisan politics.

5. We shall respect culture and custom.

6. We shall attempt to build our work on local capacities.

7. Ways shall be found to involve program beneficiaries in the management of aid.

8. Aid must strive to reduce future vulnerabilities as well as meeting basic needs.

9. We hold ourselves accountable to both those we seek to assist and those from whom we accept resources.

10. In our information, publicity and advertising activities, we shall recognize recipients as dignified human beings, not hopeless objects. 

Volunteer health professionals will practice within his or her scope of practice, and within the licensing guidelines of one's home jurisdiction.  Professionals mentoring students or residents in training will do so in the same manner as in one's home setting. 

General treatment goals are the following, while specifics may vary from team to team:

1. Provide treatment for acute medical problems such as infectious diseases, injuries, and chronic problems such as headache, stomach ache and back pain.

2. Provide treatment for chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes when that care can be done safely and if possible, in the context of ongoing care in the Central American system.

3. We will use a limited formulary based on evidence-based medicine.  We will use medications that are part of the Central American formulary whenever possible.

4. Education should be an integral part of each team's mission.