Our Story
A New Approach to Global Healthcare
For years, medical mission trips have focused on providing direct medical care in underserved regions. While well-intentioned, this approach often creates short-term relief but long-term challenges—leaving local healthcare systems struggling once volunteers depart.
At iMERC, we believe in a better, more sustainable model—one that empowers local healthcare providers through education and training. Instead of temporary solutions, we focus on building lasting improvements in healthcare delivery by equipping local professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to create change from within.
Through our experience, we’ve learned that true impact comes from collaboration. By working closely with hospitals, clinics, schools, and universities, we identify specific healthcare needs and carefully match them with expert volunteer physicians and allied health professionals who can provide targeted, high-quality training.
Our goal is clear: sustainable healthcare starts with education, not just intervention. Join us in reshaping the future of global medical outreach.
Our Mission
Advancing Global Healthcare Equity
At iMERC, we are committed to transforming healthcare in underdeveloped health systems through high-quality, non-partisan education and training. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, Continuing Medical Education (CME), and resource-conscious practices, we equip medical professionals to enhance patient care in low-resource settings.
We bring together dedicated healthcare professionals willing to share their expertise where it’s needed most. Through grants, scholarships, and cross-border partnerships, we support underprivileged students and healthcare workers, empowering local professionals to take on leadership roles.
Rooted in integrity and inclusivity, we ensure unbiased, high-quality education free from commercial influence—building sustainable, long-term improvements in global healthcare.
Our Start
Dr. Rayya Saadiq, Founder/CEO
Dr. Rayya Ahmed Saadiq is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science and a Consultant in both the Division of General Internal Medicine and the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota. She has been with Mayo Clinic since 2011, completing her residency and fellowship training in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Medicine.
Her academic journey began with undergraduate studies in Texas, earning a BA in Biology from the University of Texas at Dallas. She went on to receive an MMSc from Drexel University College of Medicine and a Doctor of Medicine from West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Saadiq further specialized through residency and fellowship training at Mayo Clinic, Arizona, and Mayo Clinic, Rochester.
Dr. Saadiq holds board certifications in Internal Medicine and Vascular medicine and has pursued additional training in medical education and leadership development. Beyond her clinical work, she is actively involved in international volunteer efforts, educating doctors in Vietnam, Kenya, and Ghana, contributing to the development of medical education globally.
She has received numerous honors, including the Arnold P. Gold Humanitarian Award, the Mayo Clinic Diversity Scholarship, and the Clinical Excellence Award. Her commitment to education and service has been recognized with accolades such as the Resident Teacher of the Year and the Outstanding Humanitarian Award. Her dedication to medical education, clinical excellence, and humanitarian work reflects a distinguished career committed to advancing healthcare and mentoring future medical professionals.
