North Country Healthcare is proud to share that Dr. Tamsin Durand, General Surgeon at Androscoggin Valley Hospital and Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital, recently completed a remarkable mission trip with the dedicated team from Unidad Hospitalaria Movil Latinoamerica (UHMLA). Dr. Durand joined 21 other UHMLA members, traveling to the remote town of Yantalo in Peru’s northeast corner, near the Amazon jungle. The journey marked a vital commitment to bring quality healthcare to underserved communities.
The clinic, managed by the Yantalo Peru Foundation and supported by volunteers, provides year-round care to residents of the region. The mission’s objective was to deliver essential surgical care to patients who otherwise lack access. Upon arrival, the team focused on organizing supplies, sanitizing equipment and facilities, and planning their week-long schedule. On the first day, they examined 57 patients to determine their eligibility for surgery, then spent the next four and a half days performing 52 operations.
These included laparoscopic gallbladder removals, hernia repairs, breast lumpectomies and mastectomies, soft tissue mass removals, and various gynecological procedures.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Durand shared, “The mission trip was a truly rewarding and memorable experience. It made me appreciate the operating room equipment we often take for granted in developed countries. Despite the challenges, the camaraderie among the UHMLA team and our shared goal of providing surgical care to those in need made it all worthwhile. I look forward to participating in more of these trips and plan to learn Spanish to better connect with patients next time.”
We are incredibly honored by Dr. Durand’s dedication and commend her for the selfless work she demonstrated throughout this mission. Her commitment to improving the lives of patients in Yantalo exemplifies the values we hold dear within North Country Healthcare. Dr. Durand’s compassionate efforts reflect her dedication to healthcare and her inspiring commitment to make a positive impact wherever she is needed. We celebrate her achievements and are privileged to have such an extraordinary member of our team delivering meaningful change to communities near and far.
About Unidad Hospitalaria Movil Latinoamerica
Unidad Hospitalaria Movil Latinoamerica or Latin America Mobile Hospital Unit (“UHMLA”) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that mobilizes surgeons, nurses, medical professionals, and a network of volunteers to execute medical [service] trips throughout Latin America.
“Our mission and vision is to bring healthcare to Latin America where it is needed most by delivering medical and surgical services through scheduled visits to underserved areas.”