The surgical brigade has begun!
For Hospital San Miguel, the month of November is all about the 'brigada quirúrgica' (surgical brigade).
A team of Dutch specialists and healthcare workers — including a surgeon, urologist, anaesthetist, gynaecologist, surgical assistant, nurse and sedation practice specialist — is dedicating this month to operating on as many patients as possible.
For many patients, this means an end to what can be years of waiting in public healthcare for a necessary procedure, for example because of gallstones, an enlarged prostate or a hernia. These aren't emergencies, but they are conditions that can cause a lot of pain and discomfort every single day.
The team is working entirely as volunteers. Besides carrying out operations, the specialists and healthcare workers also share their knowledge and experience with the local medical staff. This means Hospital San Miguel can carry out more and more procedures independently, so the impact of their work keeps being felt even after they've left.
As with the other care Hospital San Miguel provides, patients treated during the 'brigada quirúrgica' are also asked for a small own contribution. This comes to around 15% of the cost price. The remaining 85% is funded through donations. For patients who can't even afford this own contribution, a support fund is available.
Want to help make this special surgical brigade possible? With a donation, you help give patients access to the care they so urgently need. Every contribution is very welcome!
