Transcending Borders
We believe that health is a fundamental human right, and everyone, regardless of their nationality, immigration status or circumstances, deserves access to safe, timely and quality medical care.
The Need
Barriers to care for migrants often include costly treatment, discrimination, restricted services and cultural differences, making it challenging for them to access essential health services.
114 M+
People Forced to Flee their Homes
1 in 73
People Worldwide Who are Forcibly Displaced
1 in 4
Forced Migrants who are Children
Our Approach
Operation Smile is committed to helping people with cleft conditions realize brighter futures. We remain steadfast in our mission to provide high-quality care to every patient, no matter their country of origin or circumstance. We collaborate with partners and community leaders to provide care for patients from displaced communities in the countries where we work.
Our Impact
More than 600 patients received surgical and comprehensive care through Operation Smile’s Transcending Borders initiative during fiscal years 2023 and 2024.
As our impact grows, 40% of hospitals serving Transcending Borders patients are part of Operation 100.
Locally Led, Globally Supported
Transcending Borders is a partnership-driven initiative of Operation Smile, a locally led, globally supported organization, that collaborates with local and international organizations to overcome systemic barriers to surgical care.
This initiative is made possible through collaboration with local governments, ministries of health, international agencies, and non-governmental organizations.
Together, we are building the foundation for more sustainable surgical care.
