[black small square] International Medical Corps (IMC) is grateful for the tremendous response generated by your article on Carey McCarthy's volunteer work in Iraq ("Helping Iraqi Nurses Get Back on Track", February 2004). I want to clarify how readers can help. Although IMC relies on large, bulk donations of medical supplies from organizations, we don't facilitate communication with Iraqi nurses, offer "adopt-a-hospital" programs, or accept individual donations. Because of severe visa regulations for Iraqis, hosting an Iraqi nurse at your facility isn't an option.
Readers who want to explore other ways to help health care workers and vulnerable populations in Iraq and around the world can visit IMC's Web site, http://www.imcworldwide.org, or call Amy Cissell at 310-826-7800.
-TIM SMITH
IMC Communications Manager, Santa Monica, Calif.
[black small square] As a consultant for various international health agencies, I've visited Iraq frequently over the past 8 years and spent 6 months there since the end of the 2003 war. I'm currently developing a network so clinical specialists or faculty members can teach or serve in Iraq for several 2-week periods over the next year or two. Nurses who are interested can send me an e-mail message at [email protected] to learn more.
-RICHARD GARFIELD, RN, DrPH
New York, N.Y.
[black small square] This is to let you know that a U.S. military program provides a way to help nurses and physicians in Iraq. Go to http://www.anysoldier.us and click on "What to Send" and "Other Efforts" for lists of desperately needed supplies.
I'm currently collecting needed items from hospitals, clinics, ministries, and medical practices in my community, and I sent a first shipment of texts and journals to Iraq in March. I also hope to work with AnySoldier. US to start a program for sponsoring a hospital or nurse.
-MARGARET CIOCCO, RN, C, MS
Brick, N.J.
The comments appearing in this column are excerpted from readers' correspondence. Send your letter, complete mailing address, and credentials to: Letters Editor, Nursing2004, 323 Norristown Rd., Suite 200, Ambler, PA 19002, or e-mail to [email protected]. Please include your e-mail address and daytime telephone number.