“A Week That Feels Like Family”: Dr. Dave Pramash on Volunteering with One World Surgery

Dr. Dave Pramash, an internal medicine physician with Optum WellMed, has volunteered with One World Surgery (OWS) three times (twice in Honduras and most recently in the Dominican Republic). In this interview, he reflects on what drew him to global health service, the patients who’ve left lasting impressions, and how each mission reminds him why he became a doctor. 

Can you describe your background and what inspired you to volunteer with OWS? 

I’m a physician. I went to medical school in India and moved to the United States in 1991. I’ve been practicing internal medicine ever since. After many years in private practice, I joined Optum about four years ago, and that’s how I was introduced to OWS through one of my directors. 

I went to Honduras twice, and this year I volunteered in the Dominican Republic. It really gives me a good feeling to work with these patients who truly need care. 

What was it like volunteering in Honduras versus the Dominican Republic? Were there any big differences or challenges? 

Honduras has been established for a while, and their surgical center is up and running regularly. So, we were able to see more patients there compared to the Dominican Republic. 

In Honduras, there’s already a lab, a pharmacy, and all the backup systems in place. The Dominican Republic is still growing, and it will take a little time to reach that same level of organization, but it’s heading in the right direction. 

What aspects of OWS’s mission resonated with you and kept you coming back? 

I come from an industrial family. My father wanted me to join his business, but I always loved medicine and helping people, that’s why I became a doctor. 

Practicing medicine in the U.S. can be very different; there’s a lot of litigation and financial concerns. But when I go on these missions, I feel like I’m doing what I truly love: helping people who really need care. That’s what brings me back year after year. 

Can you share a specific patient experience that had a lasting impact on you? 

One patient in the Dominican Republic had severe knee pain from osteoarthritis. She could barely walk. I gave her an intra-articular injection, and she felt immediate relief. She was so happy, almost dancing. It was amazing to see such an instant change in her quality of life. 

In Honduras, I remember a young woman with a huge goiter. It was a major cosmetic and health concern. Our ENT surgeons and anesthesiologist performed a complex surgery under conscious intubation, which isn’t typical practice, but it was successful. She did great. 

And then there was another patient with a severe bladder prolapse. She had lived like that for two years. The team was able to schedule surgery, and it completely changed her life. Those moments remind me of why this work matters. 

Do you travel with teammates from Optum, or do you meet new volunteers each time? 

I usually meet new people every trip. The first time I went alone. The second time, I went with my wife and my son. I’ve also made friends with doctors and staff I’ve met along the way. Everyone is so kind and welcoming, it really feels like a community. 

What was it like sharing that experience with your family? 

They both really enjoyed it. My son was 13 when we went, and it was eye-opening for him. He got to see the clinics and spend time with the children at NPH. It was wonderful for him and for us as a family. 

How do you think your volunteer work has impacted the communities you served? 

I feel we’ve been able to make a real difference for people who might not have any other options for care. In the Dominican Republic, I saw that many patients are undocumented, which means they can’t go to government hospitals or get medicines. OWS fills that gap. It’s similar in Honduras, where many people can’t afford surgeries or access basic medicine. The impact we make is huge. 

What personal growth or insights have you gained from your volunteer experiences? 

Personally, I feel much more fulfilled. These missions remind me of why I became a doctor, to help people. It’s not just about treating medical problems; sometimes we also help with social issues. I’m grateful that OWS has social services and other support systems for patients. It makes me proud to be part of something so holistic and compassionate. 

What advice would you give to future volunteers who are considering joining a medical mission? 

I’d tell them not to worry. OWS is extremely well organized. From the moment you land at the airport to when you leave, everything is well-planned. The hosts in both Honduras and the Dominican Republic are excellent. I always encourage others to go. I even posted photos and the OWS link in my clinic to inspire more people to volunteer. My medical assistant wanted to come this year, but it was too late so he’s joining me next year! 

Is there anything else you’d like to share or anyone you’d like to recognize? 

All the team members who served with me were excellent. There were about eighteen of us, mostly from Boston and New Jersey, and by the end of the week, it felt like we were family. It was truly a wonderful experience, one that I’ll carry with me forever. 

STORIES