MEDICAL MISSION

Every summer a group of doctors, health professionals, and student volunteers from UCI, UCSD, USC and UCLA chapters of M.E.M.O. travel to impoverished communities in Vietnam. During this mission trip, 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.

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As of 2025, M.E.M.O. has been able to organize 16 annual mission trips to Vietnam and set up a total of 45 clinics. Over these past 18 years, we have seen over 27,500 patients at 14 different provinces. Additionally, we have had almost a total of 600 student volunteers partake in the mission trip.

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Applications to attend the mission trip are sent out yearly by M.E.M.O. Non-profit Board of Directors. Approximately 30-35 students from all four chapters (U.C.I., U.C.L.A., U.C.S.D., U.S.C.) are selected to attend the mission. Interviews are usually held in mid-January, and decisions will be made soon after. We look for members who consistently participate throughout the year and show their passion for our cause.