Q&A with Dr. Kerline Vassell-Klaus: A Veteran’s Perspective on One World Surgery Mission Trips

By Joseph Babiarz, MD

In June 2025, ProHealth will again embark on a One World Surgery mission trip to the Dominican Republic with a team of 25 individuals. Dr. Kerline Vassell-Klaus, a seasoned attendee who will be joining the trip next year, imparts her thoughts on the mission and its significance to her.

Q: Why did you decide to go on your first mission trip?

A: I decided to go on a mission trip after seeing a presentation at the Optum Physician Forum in Florida. A colleague and I discussed it and decided to sign up. She went first and told me all about it. It sounded both interesting and challenging. I was nervous about functioning in a different setting and worried about the language barrier. However, everyone put me at ease and helped me overcome any doubts.  

Q: When was your first trip? How many have you done?

A: My first trip was in October 2021. I have gone on four trips, one each year since 2021, all to the Dominican Republic.

Q: What do you find most rewarding on a mission trip?

A: A mission trip reminds you that the most important part of medicine is taking care of patients and providing the best care possible. During these trips, you are giving care to communities that need it, something we take for granted in the states. The work can be challenging, but very satisfying. You come away feeling accomplished, knowing you provided care that wouldn’t be available without One World Surgery. 

Q: What is your most memorable experience?

A: I have many memorable experiences, but it all comes down to the people I worked with. When I arrived in the Dominican, I didn’t know many of the team members. By the end, we had formed lasting friendships. We all pitched in, from making sandwiches to loading and unloading the truck for the day’s outing. We worked together with one clear goal every day. These trips remind me why I went into medicine. 

Q: Are you excited to go on another mission?

A: I am definitely looking forward to going. I cannot wait to see the staff again and to finally see the surgical center and primary care clinic up and running.   

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