MEDICAL MISSION
A group of doctors, health professionals, and student volunteers travel to Vietnam to hold free health clinics in villages. We conduct a preliminary needs assessment, administer vitamins for the severely malnourished population, treat patients to the highest ethical standard, and sponsor referrals to those with needs beyond our capabilities.
Every summer a group consisting of doctors, health professionals, and student volunteers from U.C.I., U.S.C & U.C.S.D. chapters of M.E.M.O. travel to impoverished communities in Vietnam. It is during this mission trip that we see our programs (Dental, Heart, Hope, Scholarship) reach fruition, thanks to the dedicated MEMObers throughout the year, the mission goers, and doctors who dedicate their expertise as well. We are able to hold free health clinics in rural areas for 3-4 days of the mission trip. During these clinics, trained M.E.M.O. volunteers have the opportunity to partake in the following stations: patient intake, crowd control, triage, dental, pharmacy, consultation, EKG, ultrasound and physical therapy. Through these health clinics, the students have the privilege to not only assist the underserved communities of Vietnam but also have the opportunity to observe and learn first hand from medical professionals. Our doctors can provide primary assessment, prescribe medication and/or transfer patients to the EKG or ultrasound specialists. For patients who require care that are beyond our capabilities, we sponsor referrals to local hospitals so that they are able to get the necessary treatment.
As of 2018, M.E.M.O. has been able to organize 12 annual mission trips to Vietnam and set up a total of 32 clinics. Over these past 12 years, we have seen over 15,000 patients at 11 different provinces. Additionally, we have had almost a total of 400 student volunteers partake in the mission trip.
Applications to attend the mission trip are sent out yearly by M.E.M.O. Non-profit. Approximately 30-35 students from all three chapters (U.C.I., U.C.L.A., U.C.S.D.) are selected to attend the mission. Interviews are usually held in mid-February, and decisions will be made soon after. We look for members who consistently participate throughout the year and show their passion for our cause.