International
Perfusion Association

Philanthropy

Supporting life-saving cardiac missions and opportunities around the world.

Heart To Heart Mission

The Heart to Heart Mission brings volunteer cardiac surgery teams to Santiago, Dominican Republic, working with local partners at Cabral and HOMS hospitals. Founded by Dr. Robert D. Pascotto in 2002, the program combines access to surgery with ongoing collaboration between visiting and local clinicians. Donations help provide equipment, supplies, and patient care, supporting people who face barriers to treatment and helping them return to their families and communities.

Honduras Mission

Launched in 2019 in Tegucigalpa, the Honduras initiative combines cardiac surgery with hands-on training for local healthcare teams. IPA works with Duke Health, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Honduran partners to expand access to care. During the 2024 mission, approximately 32 volunteer clinicians performed 38 cardiac operations, including care for 15 children, at Honduras Medical Center and Hospital María. The program supports patient care, shared learning, and lasting local partnerships.

Honduras Mission Summary

Ecuador Mission

IPA’s Ecuador missions connect volunteer cardiac surgery teams with local partners in Cuenca to expand access to life-saving care. In a reported mission, 12 volunteer clinicians worked with Massachusetts General Hospital and Ecuadorian colleagues to perform six complex surgeries for patients aged 15–65. All patients returned home to their families. The program supports surgical care, essential equipment, education, and lasting collaboration between visiting professionals and the local healthcare community.

Peru Mission

IPA supports Salvando Corazones and its partnership with Hospital Nacional Dos de Mayo in Lima, Peru. During the September 14–19, 2026 mission, visiting professionals and the local team performed 12 cardiac operations, with zero mortality during the mission. Robotic-assisted procedures, conventional cardiac surgery, and hands-on teaching helped advance care. The partnership emphasizes local leadership, education, and continued access to treatment for patients facing barriers to specialized cardiac services.

Global Cardiac Alliance

Formerly Novick Cardiac Alliance, Global Cardiac Alliance works with local hospitals to expand pediatric cardiac care in low- and middle-income countries. Dr. Bill Novick and his team combine treatment, hands-on education, and long-term partnerships to help local clinicians care for children in their own communities. IPA shares their commitment to improving access to infant and pediatric cardiac surgery, supporting clinical teams, and building programs that continue serving families beyond each mission.

Pascotto Team

Robert D. Pascotto Scholarship

The Robert D. Pascotto Scholarship helps students participate in cardiac surgery missions and experience volunteer service firsthand. Established by IPA in Dr. Pascotto’s honor, the scholarship provides up to $3,000 per recipient toward mission expenses, supported by an annual $12,000 fund. It encourages emerging healthcare professionals to contribute their skills, learn alongside experienced teams, and carry a commitment to compassionate care and philanthropy into their future careers and communities.