To explain the form in which a new case is managed in our organization, to create a regulation that facilitates the process of the new cases and make possible a better handling of those cases, we present these steps to follow:

Reception of the history:

We need to receive the complete clinical history of the case we intend to assist. He/she should come with the letterhead of the hospital and the doctor treating the illness and if possible, its corresponding English translation. It is important to count on the support of an institution, a doctor, or group of doctors for future communication between the specialists and the team that will be in charge of the case’s continuing treatment in Colombia or in the patient’s country of origin. We prefer to assist cases concerning heart conditions, for the purpose of this institution, but we are ready to collaborate with other children or cases provided that the hospitals accept to assist, not minding their origin. It is demanded from hospitals that we receive an EKG report, not alone with the reading, but with its video taping. In the event of not having one, the institution can collaborate in getting the resources necessary to take one, since this is a requirement of all hospitals and it cannot follow the protocol without one.

Presentation of history to hospitals:

The organization is connected with a group of hospitals in different cities of the United States, as well as with institutions and hospitals in Colombia. (We do not have contact with hospitals of other countries). After having completed the requirements, the presentation of the case is made to these institutions until achieving that accept the case for study. If the case can be managed in Colombia, the institution can also provide monetary aid to carry on the treatment necessary.

Case study:

The hospital that the case, studies it and according to the illness, urgency or possible surgery, decides to accept it or reject it. If it is rejected, the lacking requirements are met and then presented again to the same or another hospital, where we would have to wait for the case is to be studied again. Sometimes it is possible that the case is not being accepted because the surgery necessary is not possible. In such cases, the hospital documentation stating so is sent to the family.

Case acceptance:

After having accepted the case, a letter it is sent United States embassy in the country of origin along with a letter from the hospital and date of entrance for medical intervention, with the purpose of obtaining a visa for the patient and their escort. The organization is responsible of bringing the patient and its companion, covering transportation expenses, room and board; if possible, volunteers also get them clothes and toys. We visit them where they are staying and if their condition permits, other attentions are made.

Turn to country of origin and Case Pursuit:

The patient assisted in the United States, is readmitted to the hospital or corresponding doctor so that they may continue with corresponding treatment.

Readmission:

Should a patient require new surgery or a revision, for some cause, the hospital sends the appointment for the patient to the foundation and the institution becomes once again responsible and assumes the expenses to bring the patient and return him/her to the country of origin.