White Coat Brigades

Twice a year OA organizes a medical mission known as a White Coat Brigade. The focus of this mission is to provide medical care to the OA kids, their families and the general community. The Brigade coordinates with local healthcare professionals to deliver both supplies and educational programs. Both Medically trained and non medical volunteers are needed for this trip.

Medical Professionals: Volunteer professionals, including physicians, medical students/residents, physician assistants, nurses and medics are critically needed for the success of the Brigade. Also in great need are pharmacists, dentists and OT/PT professionals. Clinical duties on the Brigade include direct patient care, as well as teaching opportunities with our local healthcare partners. Depending on the specialties represented on the team, teaching procedures and surgical cases with local physicians may be incorporated into the clinical schedule.

Non-Clinical Volunteers: Volunteers with little or no medical experience play an important and meaningful role is the Brigade. Non –medical volunteers have the opportunity to assist during triage and intake of patients, shadow and support doctors during exams, serve as pharmacy techs and assist with completion of a medical record. In addition to supporting clinical operations, Non- Medical volunteers will have the opportunity to serve hot meals, run arts and crafts programs, teach hygiene skills and distribute hygiene kits.

What to expect: First and foremost be flexible and open to changes. “This is Africa” is a term you will come to know…it means things don’t always go the way we planned! In general though here’s what you can expect… A VERY long flight to Addis Ababa. The majority of the team will travel from their home city to Washington D.C. straight to Addis Ababa. There will be a Brigade representative to meet you in Washington D.C. and travel with you all the way to Ethiopia.

• Travel by 12 passenger van.
• Days that begin around 9am and end by sundown. Evening team meetings and preparation activities.
• Simple but comfortable accommodations in a guest house in Addis Ababa. 3-4 person occupancy is standard; however a limited number of double and single occupancy upgrades are available.
• Simple, SAFE and substantial meals and bottled water.
• Memories that will last a lifetime! All participants should be in good physical and mental health. Minimum age is 12 years old and all children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.