Las Terrenas Dominican Republic Hospital Construction is underway! Surgeons of Service is looking forward to working in the newly constructed hospital in late 2018. Members of Surgeons of Service have been visiting Las Terrenas Dominican Republic since 2014 and previously woked at the Hospital Lic. Pablo A. Paulino (see below).
The Hospital Lic. Pablo A. Paulino was demolished in late 2016 and construction has been underway since then to bring forth a new facility for the people of Las Terrenas. ” We are excited to bring our medical services back to the area and to be able to work in the hospital setting again. We held clinic in a small office last year and it was a little difficult compared to the space and office setting that the hospital provides. We look forward to helping those in need again” states Dr. Allison Menke of Da Vinci Foot and Ankle.
In early 2017, six Surgeons of Service members travelled to Las Terrenas Dominican Republic and offered medical services for roughly a week. They treated over 150 patients over in the make-shift clinic (see above). With the hospital operating room recently demolished, surgery was not performed, however, small procedures within the clinic were completed. Donated braces from Cropper Medical were given out including knee, shoulder, back, and ankle braces. These were dispensed to individuals of varying ages.
With the hospital operating room down for previous trip, we further expanded the Surgeons of Service initiative. We were able to bring down and give out almost 100 pair of shoes within the medical clinic to individuals of varying ages. In addition, over 200 pair of shoes were dispensed to roughly 100 children at the local elementary school, Escuelita El Manantial. This by far was the most rewarding moment of the entire trip.
We are looking forward to visiting Las Terrenas in early 2018 and to returning to the new hospital once it is complete. If you would like to help, read more about how you can contribute to the Surgeon of Services cause!