History

Dr. Dan Heffernan, a retired Ann Arbor area family physician, founded Hope Clinic International (HCI) in 1997.  Dr. Heffernan was moved to establish HCI after personally observing the poverty, lack of medical resources, and overwhelming need in Nicaragua, Central America.  Dr. Heffernan is also the founder of Hope Medical Clinic in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Established over 20 years ago, it serves the working poor in his local community.  HCI builds upon the charitable vision of Hope Clinic to provide compassionate medical and surgical care to impoverished women and children - specifically those beyond our borders.

2001—First medical team sent to Leon Nicaragua.  Hosted with support from the local St. Vincent de Paul Society. (SVPS)

2002—Surgical team sent to Chinandega’s Maternal Child Hospital.  HCI renovated and donated new equipment for an operating room.  HCI volunteer and pediatric surgeon Dr. Joseph Lelli began training local surgeons from the hospital.

2003—Medical team sent to Jinotega, Matagalpa, and Esteli at the request of SVPS.

2005—Tim’s Clinic opened in Esteli providing free medical care to women and children.  Medical teams arrive in February and June to serve the communities of Jinotega and Esteli.  Surgical team included an OB/GYN physician for the first time.

2007—Medical teams sent in February, June and October to Jinotega and Esteli.  Tim’s Clinic equipped with an ultrasound to serve women with high risk pregnancies.

2008—Surgical team sent to La Mascota Children’s Hospital.  Dr. Lelli teaches laparoscopic techniques to eight local surgeons.  HCI procures donation of laparoscopic tower and other equipment.

2009—Surgeons from Miami Children’s Hospital volunteer to continue training in laparoscopic surgery