Nursing students in mobile x-ray unit.

Knoxville, Tennessee (February 2022): Remote Area Medical unveiled its new mobile Panoramic X-ray unit at the Knoxville clinic, a new-to-RAM technology that allows for full 180-degree dental X-rays to be performed on-site at clinic locations.

Students and faculty in front of RAM van.

Olean, New York (September 2021): Six UB nursing students, under supervision of clinical associate professors Molli Oldenberg and Linda Paine Hughes, provided free medical care to underserved and uninsured populations. Providers followed COVID-19 protocols.

Students suctioning dental patient.

Knoxville, Tennessee (January 2020): Volunteers from all over the country -- including UB nursing students and faculty -- gathered at a mobile clinic at a local exposition center to serve 1,534 patients, totaling $896,282 worth of medical, dental and vision services.

Overview

The RAM program is a longstanding volunteer opportunity where health care professionals come together and work in a mobile clinic setting. The RAM organization sets up mobile medical centers at fairgrounds, schools and arenas in order to provide the underserved in impoverished areas in the United States with general medical, dental, vision and preventive care and education.

Please note: At this time, this experience is available for FNP students currently in clinical.

Patients and Responsibilities

  • Patients arrive on a first come, first serve basis, and typically are without insurance and/or regular health care.
  • Nursing volunteers arrive at clinical site at 5:15 a.m. on both days.
  • Responsibilities of nursing volunteers are assigned by core volunteers and include:
    • Triage
      • Take vital signs
      • Review PMH, PSH, medications
      • Refer to proper treatment line
      • Provide immunizations 
    • Assist UB dental students
      • Manage tools
      • Gather supplies
      • Suction patients
      • Hold hands
      • Communication
Requirements for all volunteers and patients at RAM:
  • Wear a mask at all times, regardless of vaccination statues
  • Answer screening questions upon entering the building
  • Temperature checks
  • Wear a wristband to identify clearance for entry into the building
  • Use proper PPE

Travel and Expenses Information

Students are responsible for their expenses. Costs will include transportation and lodging with some meals provided. One independent study credit is required that will allow UB School of Nursing to provide insurance and supervision. You may be able to use financial aid to assist in covering your expenses; please see your financial aid advisor for assistance.

Lodging

Hotel lists will be provided. Some hotels provide discounted lodging. Generally students will be expected to share four to reduce costs. Volunteers will be notified of hotel options after registration. 

Transportation

  • Carpool
  • Approximately 700 miles (10 hour drive) 

Estimated Expenses

  • Meals - $20-$40/travel day. RAM provides breakfast and lunch on site. Additional meals are the responsibility of the student.
  • Transportation: Students contribute to gas cost for carpool.
  • The School of Nursing will provide a small stipend upon completion of the trip.   

How to Apply

Please submit the Global Health Experiences Application by 4:00 p.m. on October 31, 2022.

Global Health Experience Application

After you have registered with our office, you will register as a volunteer on the Remote Area Medical USA website.