Volunteering Overseas — Lessons from Surgical Brigades

Abstract

Interview with Dr. Mark Migliori on his work as a volunteer surgeon in developing countries. (07:22)Download Dr. Mark Migliori's approach to international surgical care is minimalist. With another surgeon, two anesthesiologists, and two or three nurses, he travels to a rural hospital in Guatemala. The group evaluates dozens of children from the surrounding villages whom local health care workers have identified as potential candidates for surgery — primarily the repair of cleft lips and palates. Each surgeon operates on as many as 15 children each day with the use of local hospital equipment augmented with supplies brought from home. When they leave, local health care workers provide follow-up care, consulting with Migliori by e-mail as necessary. . . .