The Department of Surgery at UC San Diego is committed not only to improving access to and the quality of surgical care at home, but also around the world-especially for the underserved. We aim to support efforts in research and education that equip trainees for global service, contribute to the global dialogue, and directly serve communities in low- and middle-income countries.
Our faculty across multiple divisions have conducted high-impact global surgery research, participated in international surgical training efforts, and provided in-person and telemedicine care to other countries. Their work has included:
- Working with surgeons, researchers and educators to improve care in The Gambia, Ghana, Mozambique, Nigeria and Mexico
- Publishing global surgery and epidemiology research in high-impact global surgery journals and textbooks
- Developing training courses and resources for surgical trainees to advance global care
- Speaking at conferences and events for influential global health organizations, such as the Global Initiative for Children's Surgery and Global Surgery Foundation
Global Surgery Spotlight
While working at a mission hospital in Sierra Leone as a fourth-year medical student, Stephen Bickler, MD, began asking questions that would shape his 30-year career in surgical epidemiology. His interest in global health continues today.
Our Research
Learn about our research teams and their work in advancing surgical care across the globe.
Clinical & Research Opportunities
- ACS Health Outreach Program for Equity in Global Surgery, the volunteerism initiative of the American College of Surgeons (ACS), serves as a comprehensive resource center where you can find information to investigate and participate in surgical volunteer opportunities.
- GloCal Fellowship offers paid 11-month internships to senior medical students and postdocs in any of the 20 countries.
- Volunteers in Plastic Surgery (VIPS) is a committee of The Plastic Surgery Foundation that serves as a resource for plastic surgeons who volunteer internationally.
- Tijuana Jornadas are led periodically by the chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery, Amanda Gosman, MD. Partnering with CER Hospital, the day includes charitable surgeries, training and telemedicine. Contact Amanda Gosman, MD, for details.