Operation Smile Featured in “Beyond the Code,” a New Branded Series that Explores How AI Is Driving Transformative Change

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va., October 15, 2024 – Global nonprofit Operation Smile today announced its involvement in Beyond the Code, a new branded series presented by Partnership on AI (PAI) and produced by BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions. The first of its kind, this online series – which includes a story produced for Operation Smile of how AI is improving healthcare – uncovers the ways that AI is impacting people’s lives and contributing to a more sustainable environment.

BBC StoryWorks filmed with Operation Smile in Musanze, Rwanda, to capture the innovative use of AI in the surgical evaluation process for patients with cleft conditions. The 5-minute film follows a Rwandan family whose child received life-changing surgery and showcases the profound impact of Operation Smile’s work on patients and their communities.

“We are proud to be part of Beyond the Code,” said Dr. Billy Magee, Chief Medical Officer, Operation Smile. “The story produced for Operation Smile highlights our pioneering use of AI technology to enhance healthcare delivery. By integrating AI into our planning and evaluation processes, we are not only raising the standard of care but also building local capacity, bringing life-changing surgical care closer to the communities we serve.”

Operation Smile has an ongoing commitment to increase access to sustainable, high-quality care, starting with cleft surgery. The incorporation of AI into evaluation processes helps ensure that every surgery is evaluated based on consistent, measurable criteria, providing high-quality care in regions where specialized cleft surgeons are scarce.

“If I could describe Operation Smile in one word it would be ‘evolving,’” said Dr. Caroline Yao, Plastic Surgeon and SVP Patient Metrics & Evaluation, Operation Smile. “We are constantly evolving to best serve our patients. The integration of AI into cleft care, currently being piloted, supports our mission to create sustainable solutions and reinforces our commitment to drive innovation in global healthcare. We are excited to be one of the 12 organizations featured in the Beyond the Code series for driving transformative change.”

The Beyond the Code Series is available at bbc.com/storyworks/specials/beyond-the-code. Operation Smile’s film can be accessed at operationsmile.org/innovation.

About Operation Smile

Operation Smile is a leading global nonprofit bridging the gap in access to essential surgeries and health care, starting with cleft surgery and comprehensive care. We provide medical expertise, training, mentorship, research and care through our dedicated staff and volunteers around the world, working alongside local governments, nonprofits, and health systems, and supported by our generous donors and corporate partners. Visit Operation Smile for more information.