In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Maria, which has ravaged Puerto Rico as the strongest hurricane to hit the U.S. Island in nearly 100 years, Norwegian American Hospital announced that they are partnering with the National Association of Hispanic Nurses-Illinois Chapter (NAHN-Illinois) to aid in the medical mission response efforts. Norwegian American Hospital President and CEO José R. Sánchez says they want to help the island tend to the medical needs of Maria survivors. The hospitals have been crippled by floods, damage and shortages of diesel. Only half of the island’s 66 hospitals are in working order. The rest are not operational. The physicians and nurses will attend to the sick and injured in areas where the health services are most needed. Norwegian American Hospital and NAHN-Illinois are coordinating a team with a wide range of health professional experts prepared to deliver medications, supplies, and psychosocial support.

Volunteers needed include: emergency room physicians, family practice/internal medicine, general surgeons, anesthesiologists, pediatricians, orthopedists, psychiatrists or mental health professionals, floor nurses, emergency and surgical room nurses, certified registered nurse anesthetists as well as nurse practitioners. Medical and nursing students along with medical assistants are also welcomed to volunteer. Anyone seeking an opportunity to get involved in the medical mission is encouraged to contact Dr. Joseph Mejia, Norwegian American Hospital, at 773-292-8316 or jmejia@nahospital.org or Elizabeth Aquino, National Association of Hispanic Nurses-Illinois Chapter, at 872-202-4022 or eaquino.nahn@gmail.com. Recovery activities associated with Hurricane Maria will require volunteer engagement for many months to come, and the help of many will be required. For more information about Norwegian American Hospital, visit www.nahospital.org.