Ali Balick

Operation Access coordinates surgical and specialty care for people who need it. In collaboration with a network of over 100 Northern California community clinics, we have identified patients in need of care, and matched them with volunteer medical professionals who have donated over 27,000 surgical procedures and diagnostic services to more than 18,000 people. Our volunteers restore the health and quality of life of patients and their families. Our network of volunteers, hospitals, and ambulatory care centers offer these services to eligible adults free of charge. Over 1,000 medical volunteers, over 100 medical groups, and 75 hospitals and ambulatory care centers donate a wide variety of outpatient surgical and specialty care to clients who live in Northern California. Our target population faces structural inequality because of their limited income, immigration status, race, language, and ethnicity. They grapple with discrimination in health care, jobs, education, and housing. Without sufficient income, they cannot afford health insurance coverage, and because of their immigration status they are not eligible for health coverage. We offer a solution that provides a referral pathway for community clinic patients who need specialty medical services most clinics cannot provide. Our volunteers donate their time and expertise to treat people in need at no cost to the patients. We are often the only resource for community clinic patients who need, but cannot afford, surgery or specialty care.