Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation

The Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation is a nonprofit humanitarian organization that provides a range of healthcare services in the United States. It is part of the global Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation, which was founded in 1966 by Dharma Master Cheng Yen in Taiwan. The U.S. arm of the foundation focuses on delivering medical care to underserved communities, aligning with Tzu Chi's broader mission of promoting compassion and relief.

History and Structure

The Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation began its operations in the U.S. with the establishment of its first overseas clinic, which was initially known as the Buddhist Tzu Chi Free Clinic. Since its inception, the foundation has grown significantly, now operating three permanent clinics across California, complemented by seven mobile clinics and numerous medical outreach events. This expansion underscores Tzu Chi's commitment to serving diverse populations, particularly those in need.

Services and Outreach

The foundation offers a comprehensive array of services, including dental, medical, acupuncture, vision care, and cancer screening. Additionally, it provides community health initiatives and collaborates with other healthcare organizations to enhance public health awareness and access to care. Through its mobile clinics, Tzu Chi targets migrant farmers and other vulnerable groups, while the permanent clinics serve as hubs for treating more complex health issues, such as chronic diseases and minor surgical procedures.

Mission and Global Affiliations

The mission of the Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation aligns with that of the global Tzu Chi organization, which emphasizes the importance of charity, medicine, education, and humanistic culture. The U.S. branch collaborates with various nonprofits and healthcare providers to achieve its goals, relying on volunteer healthcare professionals from the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) to support its outreach programs.

Impact and Growth

By serving over 150,000 visits annually at its permanent clinics and more than 100,000 visits through its mobile and outreach programs, the foundation plays a critical role in addressing healthcare disparities in underserved communities. Its future plans include expanding services and establishing additional clinics to further enhance healthcare access and promote healthy communities across the United States.