Health Fair for Veterans Provides Essential Screenings for U.S. Veterans
Juan M. Montero, II, MD, FACS, became an inaugural recipient of the American College of Surgeons’ Surgical Volunteerism Award in 2003 because of to his involvement in philanthropic efforts, such as his helping the migrant workers in Eastern Shore, VA, through a mobile clinic project of the Philippine Medical Association of Southeastern Virginia, and the establishment of the Chesapeake Care Free Clinic in 1992. In July 2011, he founded Montero Medical Missions (MMM). Its mission is to provide medical missions and encourage physicians and allied health professionals with international roots to give back to their homelands by creating sustainable health care projects globally.
In November, 2011, Dr. Montero received a letter encouraging physicians to be compassionate and understanding of the health care needs of U.S. veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. MMM accepted the challenge by creating the Health Fair for Veterans (HFFV) in October 2012. During the HFFV, multispecialty professionals screen and advise veterans on their health care needs. If follow-up is indicated, an appointment is readily arranged. This is profoundly needed since the Hampton Roads area of Virginia has the highest concentration of veterans anywhere in the country.
Supporters and benefactors of MMM take pride in having one of the few U.S.-based philanthropy organizations with an ongoing domestic project, especially serving our veterans. Since inception, HFFV has provided services and referrals to 500 veterans regionally. Additionally Dr. Montero has volunteered to be of year-round assistance to veterans who need access to private sector healthcare through colleague contacts. Veterans have ready access to Dr. Montero and his network via Upscale Resale, a high-end thrift store established in Chesapeake, VA. Upscale Resale was established in May 2016 to serve as a funding mechanism for MMM as well as an outreach focal point for the community. Dr. Montero volunteers daily at Upscale Resale and has counseled more than two dozen veterans at the store since the opening.
About Montero Medical Missions
Montero Medical Missions was founded byJuan M. Montero, II, MD, FACS, in July 2011 to provide medical missions and encourage physicians and allied health professionals with international roots to give back to their homelands by creating sustainable health care projects globally.