HMARIA/American College of Surgeons Operation Giving Back PR (ACS OGB-PR) provides free elective surgeries to the uninsured in Puerto Rico. Our program is currently suspended due to COVID-19, but when operational, it offers experiential learning opportunities to medical/surgical residents, medical students, and undergraduate pre-med students inclusive of academic lectures at local medical schools.
Through a network of high-impact partner organizations in Puerto Rico, our program directs surgeons to volunteer opportunities that align with their skills, passions, and beliefs and matches them with local medical students. We believe this is one way we can work to eradicate poverty and inequality while creating culturally sensitive access to healthcare to the underserved and marginalized populations we serve in Puerto Rico. Over 300 undergraduate pre med students, medical students, and medical residents have participated in each of these opportunities.
Due to COVID-19, the program is 100% virtual. As for right now, our offerings include Structured Cyber Mentor Program, Cyber Surgeon/Doctor/Nurse Speaker Series, Cyber Medical School/Residency Interview Prep and Recommendation Letters Support.