How can I donate books or medical supplies to needy countries?
AMA’s WorldScopes collects and donates stethoscopes worldwide. Refer to this list of donation programs (This link will take you off the AMA Web site.) for books, journals and media. For a more complete list of international organizations and their services, see the AMA’s Office of International Medicine. Unfortunately, there are very few organizations that accept donations of medical equipment. Usually the cost of shipping it, getting it through customs, training local operators, etc, is more than the equipment is worth. Many times the equipment is unsuitable for overseas hospitals and clinics due to electric current requirements and availability of repair parts. AMA Members may contact the Office of International Medicine for advice, should they choose to pursue equipment donation.
