ACS Health Outreach Program for Equity in Global Surgery

The ACS Health Outreach Program for Equity in Global Surgery (ACS H.O.P.E.) is committed to creating a global learning space—providing surgeons with opportunities to teach and learn from one another to better serve all patients and communities.

Catering to all specialties and career stages, ACS H.O.P.E. serves as a platform for surgeons to explore and engage in volunteer opportunities both domestically and internationally. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and community-based programming, ACS H.O.P.E. strives to improve surgical access and provide optimal surgical care to medically underserved communities through surgical service and education. Please use this site to explore opportunities for engagement with our program and how you can make a lasting impact in the lives of surgical patients worldwide.

The ACS is evolving its international outreach efforts through the rebranding of Operation Giving Back (OGB) to ACS Health Outreach Program for Equity in Global Surgery. While continuing to facilitate individual surgical volunteerism, ACS H.O.P.E. marks a strategic expansion beyond OGB's previous scope to focus on establishing equal global partnerships and sustainable programs. By collaborating with institutions worldwide to create shared learning spaces and opportunities, ACS H.O.P.E. aims to exchange knowledge across borders and specialties to collectively advance the field. This refined approach aligns with the program's commitment to serve, teach, and learn for the betterment of patients and communities everywhere. The rebrand signifies an important step in realizing ACS's vision for health equity through global collaboration and capacity building.

Support for Hurricane Victims

The American College of Surgeons would like to express its deepest sadness for the devastation caused by recent hurricanes in the southeastern United States. Heartfelt condolences go out to those families who lost loved ones, and the sincerest appreciation is extended to first responders, medical teams, and volunteers providing aid, comfort, and support during these challenging times.

The loss of lives, physical injuries, and loss of properties can cause serious long-lasting physiological pressure that affects well-being. Recovery and rebuilding are long processes that require a lot of resources. ACS members who would like to support the affected communities to heal and rebuild are encouraged to donate through the Red Cross Hurricane Fund. 

The ACS stands with those affected by this natural disaster.

Humanitarian Efforts in the Middle East

Although the ACS does not deploy volunteers in conflict zones, we are willing to support and promote organizations that are active in the region who may need volunteers, supplies, or other support. We encourage you to email us the contact information and details for any governmental agencies or NGOs that can be added to our list of entities to be supported in the region.