'Tis the Season to Give a Gift that Can Make a World of Difference

Through AMA Foundation's WorldScopes program you can send stethoscopes to clinics and hospitals around the world

CHICAGO, Dec. 20, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As the season of giving continues, the American Medical Association (AMA) is asking you to consider giving a simple gift that can make a world of difference: a stethoscope. WorldScopes is a global, philanthropic initiative of the AMA Foundation that works with leading humanitarian organizations to collect and distribute stethoscopes to health care professionals in areas of need. Anyone can donate a new or gently used stethoscope or make a monetary donation in just minutes on the WorldScopes web site.

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"A stethoscope is among the most basic and essential medical instruments a physician uses, but in many parts of the world access to this important tool is severely limited, and many physicians have to treat the sick and suffering without it," said AMA President Cecil B. Wilson, M.D. "WorldScopes has already donated more than 9,000 stethoscopes to health care professionals around the globe to help aid in the care of countless patients."

After the devastating earthquake in Haiti earlier this year, WorldScopes collected more than 500 stethoscopes and sent them to physicians treating those affected. WorldScopes also sent stethoscopes to the University of Zimbabwe to help train African medical students.

The WorldScopes web site makes it easy to donate stethoscopes or contribute financially to the program. All monetary donations go directly to the purchase of new stethoscopes, and the AMA will cover the shipping costs of donations of 20 stethoscopes or more. Information on how to organize a collection drive at your hospital or school is also available on the site.

"This holiday season think globally with a donation to WorldScopes and help make a real difference in the quality of medical care for those around the world," said Dr. Wilson.

SOURCE American Medical Association